Airport Operations Manager Job Vacancy in Mazabuka, Zambia – Aviation & Airport Services

Job Description

Position: Airport Operations Manager

Company: Kenya Airways

Location: Mazabuka, Zambia

Experience: 5+ years in airport operations or aviation management

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Business Administration, or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Aviation & Airport Services

Department: Operations

Salary: SSP 150,000 – SSP 250,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Kenya Airways, the flag carrier of Kenya, operates an extensive network across Africa, the Middle East, Europe and Asia. With a strong commitment to safety, reliability and customer service, the airline has established a solid presence in Zambia through its regional hub at Lusaka International Airport. In line with its growth strategy, Kenya Airways is expanding operations to Mazabuka, a key commercial centre in the Southern Province, to support increasing passenger demand and cargo movement. The company’s investment in modern aircraft, state‑of‑the‑art ground handling equipment and a skilled workforce makes it a premier employer for aviation professionals seeking dynamic career opportunities in Zambia. This role contributes directly to Kenya Airways’ mission of delivering world‑class air travel while fostering local talent and supporting the economic development of Mazabuka and the surrounding region. Keywords such as Zambia Jobs, Jobs in Zambia, Job Vacancy in Zambia, Career Opportunities in Zambia, Employment in Zambia and Hiring in Zambia are integral to the company’s recruitment outreach.

Job Overview

The Airport Operations Manager will oversee all ground‑handling activities, passenger services, safety compliance and coordination with air traffic control at the newly established Mazabuka Airport facility. Reporting to the Regional Operations Director, the incumbent will ensure seamless daily operations, optimize resource allocation, and uphold the highest standards of safety and customer satisfaction. This position plays a pivotal role in expanding Kenya Airways’ footprint in Southern Zambia and will work closely with cross‑functional teams including security, maintenance, cargo, and commercial departments. The role also involves strategic planning for future capacity enhancements and partnership development with local authorities and service providers. For more information about Kenya Airways and its career portal, visit the main website: https://zambiajobssearch.com.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate all airport ground operations, including check‑in, boarding, baggage handling, and aircraft servicing.
• Ensure compliance with international aviation safety regulations, ICAO standards and Kenya Airways operational policies.
• Manage relationships with airport authorities, air traffic control, security agencies and third‑party service providers.
• Develop and implement operational SOPs, emergency response plans and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as on‑time performance, turnaround time, and passenger satisfaction.
• Prepare and control the operational budget, forecast staffing needs and oversee recruitment of ground staff.
• Lead incident investigations, produce detailed reports and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Required Skills

• Strong leadership and team‑management abilities with a focus on safety culture.
• In‑depth knowledge of airport operations, ground handling equipment and regulatory frameworks.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑engagement skills.
• Proficiency in operational planning software and data‑analysis tools.
• Problem‑solving mindset with the capacity to make quick decisions under pressure.
• Fluency in English; knowledge of Swahili or local languages is an advantage.

Education

A recognized Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Aeronautical Engineering, Business Administration, or a related discipline is required. Professional certifications such as IATA Ground Operations, ICAO Safety Management System (SMS) or equivalent are highly desirable.

Experience

Applicants must have a minimum of five years’ progressive experience in airport operations, preferably in a managerial capacity. Experience within an international airline environment and exposure to multi‑airport coordination will be considered a strong asset.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from SSP 150,000 to SSP 250,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based incentives, health insurance, and a retirement savings plan.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical and dental coverage for employee and dependents.
• Annual leave entitlement of 25 days plus public holidays.
• Airline travel benefits for employee and immediate family.
• Professional development allowance and support for certifications.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.

Training

• Induction program covering Kenya Airways policies, safety standards and local regulatory requirements.
• Ongoing on‑the‑job training in advanced ground handling techniques and leadership development.
• Access to e‑learning platforms for continuous skill enhancement.
• Mentorship from senior aviation experts within the regional network.

Working Environment

The role is based at the Mazabuka Airport facility, a modern, secure environment equipped with the latest ground handling technology. The manager will work in a collaborative, multicultural team, interacting daily with pilots, cabin crew, security personnel and airport officials. The position requires occasional shift work, including early mornings, evenings and weekends, to align with flight schedules.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the online portal. Applications will be screened by the Kenya Airways Talent Acquisition team, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment. For additional career resources and to explore other opportunities across Africa, visit: https://www.ghanajobsearch.com/.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Kenya Airways is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, religion, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected characteristic. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any such status.