Aeronautics Deputy Director

JOB POST CLOSES: Friday, November 14, 2025, at midnight (no apps accepted 11/15/25).

ATTENTION: WILL ONLY ACCEPT APPLICATIONS THROUGH WORKDAY ACCOUNT

Email Christy at: if you are interested in applying, OR, copy and paste the following link into a new browser to apply.

The Nebraska Department of Transportation's Division of Aeronautics is seeking an experienced, visionary leader to serve as Aeronautics Deputy Director. This is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of aviation in Nebraska by supporting and advancing airport infrastructure, aviation safety, and economic development. The Deputy Director plays a critical role in fostering innovation and integrating emerging aviation technologies such as Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) into Nebraska's aviation ecosystem. Working closely with the Division Director, this position coordinates statewide aviation programs, manages financial resources, and strengthens partnerships with federal, state, and local stakeholders. If you are passionate about aviation, skilled in strategic leadership, and ready to make a lasting impact on Nebraska's aviation system, we encourage you to apply.

We reward our employee's hard work with a friendly and supportive work environment and a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• State-matched retirement contribution of 156%
• 13 paid holidays
• Generous leave accruals that begin immediately
• Military leave
• Tuition reimbursement program
• Dependent tuition reimbursement program with partnering Nebraska community colleges
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) through the Federal government
• 79% employer-paid health insurance plans
• Dental and vision insurance plans
• Employer-paid $20,000 life insurance policy
• Wide variety and availability of career advancement as the largest and most diverse employer in the State
• Opportunity to be part of meaningful work and make a difference through public service
• Training and Development based on your career aspirations
• Job security and stability, even during times of economic hardship
• Employee Assistance Program
• Fun, inviting teammates

Pay range is $ $62.374 per hour. The pay rate may be commensurate with education and/or experience within fiscal constraints if approved.

JOB DUTIES

As the Aeronautics Deputy Director, areas of responsibility include:

Leadership & Strategic Direction

• Assist the Director in leading the Division of Aeronautics and act on their behalf in their absence.
• Coordinate policies, programs, and priorities across the Division to meet agency objectives within federal and state guidelines.
• Build strong relationships with airport sponsors, consultants, FAA representatives, and other aviation stakeholders.

Innovation & Emerging Aviation Technologies

• Champion the integration of emerging aviation technologies into Nebraska's aviation system, including UAS operations, Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), and other innovative air transportation concepts.
• Collaborate with federal, state, and local partners to develop policies, strategies, and initiatives that support safe, efficient, and forward-looking adoption of new technologies.
• Represent Nebraska in regional and national forums on innovation in aviation.

Budget, Finance, & Grants Management

• Prepare, manage, and monitor the Division's operating budget, ensuring compliance with state and federal requirements.
• Oversee grant administration, including all Federal and state-funded grant programs.
• Review and approve invoices, reimbursement requests, procurement contracts, and funding reallocations.
• Prepare and present the Report of State Funds Available at each meeting of the Nebraska Aeronautics Commission.

Legislative, Policy, & Stakeholder Engagement

• Participate in legislative processes related to aviation policy and represent NDOT in discussions with lawmakers and other state agencies.
• Serve as a liaison to aviation organizations, including the Nebraska Aeronautics Commission, National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO), FAA, and other state and regional aviation partners.
• Advocate for Nebraska's aviation priorities at state, regional, and national forums.

Personnel Leadership & Program Oversight

• Supervise, mentor, and develop Division staff, including administrative and accounting team members.
• Lead organizational planning, performance management, and workforce development efforts.

Requirements / Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications: Post high school coursework/training in Business Administration or Public Administration, or related field, plus related experience, including supervisory or management capacity.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a closely related field.
• Extensive experience in aviation program management, including FAA grant processes, airport capital improvement planning, and federal/state regulatory compliance.
• Proven success in strategic leadership roles involving budgeting, personnel management, and policy development.
• Experience collaborating with airport sponsors, FAA Airports Division and District (or Regional) offices, and aviation industry stakeholders.
• Familiarity with emerging aviation technologies, including UAS integration, AAM initiatives, and evolving FAA regulatory frameworks.
• Experience/knowledge of Nebraska Revised Statutes (Chapter 3) and FAA regulations governing public-use airports.

Other:

• Must have a valid driver's license or the ability to provide independent authorized transportation.
• Frequent in-state travel to airports, conferences, and public meetings.
• Occasional out-of-state travel to participate in FAA, NASAO, and other aviation-related events.

KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES

Knowledge of:

• Federal and state aviation programs, policies, and funding mechanisms.
• State statutes, FAA regulations, and the legislative process.
• Principles of business administration, personnel management, budgeting, and contracts.

Skills in:

• Building and maintaining relationships with diverse stakeholders, including airport boards, legislators, consultants, and federal partners.
• Overseeing procurement processes, contract administration, and compliance requirements.
• Representing the Division in public forums and delivering compelling presentations.

Abilities to:

• Lead teams, manage multiple complex programs, and drive strategic initiatives.
• Interpret and apply federal and state aviation regulations effectively.
• Communicate clearly and persuasively, both orally and in writing.

JOB POST CLOSES: Friday, November 14, 2025, at midnight (no apps accepted 11/15/25).

ATTENTION: WILL ONLY ACCEPT APPLICATIONS THROUGH WORKDAY ACCOUNT

Email Christy at: if you are interested in applying, OR, copy and paste the following link into a new browser to apply.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $ $62.37 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person