The County of Orange is seeking a strategic and innovative Deputy Airport Director of Planning and Development for John Wayne Airport (JWA), a newly created Executive Team level role that will lead the airport’s ambitious capital improvement and planning efforts. Reporting directly to the Airport Director, this leader will oversee up to 28 indirect reports and a $700 million Capital Improvement Program, guide multidisciplinary teams, and ensure that projects are executed efficiently, sustainably, and in full compliance with FAA and environmental regulations. The ideal candidate has strong expertise and experience in airport planning, public infrastructure, and large-scale project delivery. The selected individual will join a dynamic leadership team, shape the future of air travel in Orange County, and play a vital role in ensuring that John Wayne Airport continues to meet the evolving needs of passengers, tenants, and the broader community. This position is ideal for a seasoned professional with a passion for aviation, infrastructure, innovation, and leading teams through complex challenges. Apply today!

View the full recruitment brochure by clicking here!

CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATION – MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS                                                               

To learn more about the minimum qualifications for the Business Services Deputy Director classification, click here.

LICENSE REQUIRED                                                                                                                                                               

The successful candidate must possess, obtain and maintain the following licenses:

• Valid California Driver’s License, Class C or higher, by date of appointment
• Valid Airport Access Badge with an Airport Driving Endorsement within ten (10) days of employment

AIRPORT ACCESS REQUIREMENTS                                                                                                                               

The successful candidate must clear a background check which includes a Criminal History Records Check (CHRC), Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and Security Threat Assessment (STA).

PHYSICAL, MENTAL, ENVIRONMENTAL and WORKING CONDITIONS

In addition to the standard requirements and conditions listed for all positions, some assignments may require the additional physical and mental capabilities and/or the ability to work in the more diverse environmental conditions listed for some positions.

Physical and Mental Requirements

Possess vision sufficient to read standard text and a computer monitor and to drive a vehicle; speak and hear well enough to communicate clearly and understandably in person to individuals and groups and over the telephone; possess body mobility to stand, sit, walk, stoop and bend routinely to perform daily tasks and to access a standard office environment; possess manual dexterity sufficient to use hands, arms and shoulders repetitively to operate a keyboard, utilize office equipment and to write and drive; use a County approved means of transportation.

Environmental and Working Conditions

Possess the ability to independently reason logically to analyze data, reach conclusions and make recommendations; possess the ability to remain calm and appropriately focused in rapidly changing and difficult situations involving conflict, complex issues, controversy and diverse stakeholder groups and interests; possess the ability to deal calmly and effectively with emotional interactions.

Function effectively in a standard office environment.