Operations Manager - Dunedin

By joining us, you will be part of a team where meaningful work, collaboration and innovation come together to help keep New Zealand’s skies safe and secure.  

At the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand, we are constantly evolving to meet the demands of a changing environment and the aviation industry. 

As we step confidently into our role as a modern regulator, we are embracing intelligence-led, risk-based approaches that help us make a real difference for our people and the communities we serve, with a strong value-for-money ethos. We’re also committed to enabling aviation participants to support economic growth in New Zealand's aviation sector. 

About the Role 

Aviation Security Service (AvSec) is the Government provider of aviation security in Aotearoa, operating at our seven major airports. 

As an Operations Manager at Dunedin Airport, you will lead a team of around 70 staff through your Shift Leaders, fostering a high-performing culture that keeps passengers moving safely and securely. 

This is a fast-paced and often unpredictable environment where agility and flexibility are essential. On any given day, you may be managing frontline staff, responding to operational challenges, supporting passenger flows, or coordinating with stakeholders to resolve unexpected issues. Your ability to adapt quickly and keep people and processes running smoothly will be key to ensuring high standards of safety and service. 

The salary band for this position goes from $115,536 to $141,751. Starting salaries will be based on knowledge, skills and experience the successful candidate brings to the role and relativities across the organisation.    

What You’ll Bring 

We are looking for a proven people leader who thrives in busy operational settings. You will have a strong track record of managing teams, building positive workplace culture, and getting the best out of your people. Just as importantly, you will have a strong understanding of how airports operate and the unique challenges of keeping them safe, secure, and running smoothly. 

To succeed in this role, you will bring: 

• Previous experience within an airport operating environment and a strong understanding of the complexities of aviation security.

• Demonstrated experience in leading and developing large teams, with the ability to inspire, motivate, and create a culture where staff feel valued and supported. 

• Strength in operating disciplines with the ability to identify further opportunities to ensure the team thrive. 

• Strong communication skills to engage effectively with staff, stakeholders, and other agencies. 

• Sound judgement, political awareness, and the confidence to identify and manage risk in uncertain situations. 

• A proven commitment to health, safety, and wellbeing, enabling a positive safety culture. 

Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a ‘Secret’ security clearance. You can check your eligibility here: http://www.protectivesecurity.govt.nz/eligibility-tool. You will also need to hold a full New Zealand driver licence and be either a NZ or Australian citizen or a NZ permanent resident.