The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA) is seeking a Chief Director of Public Safety to serve as the senior leader of airport safety and security operations, overseeing law enforcement, aircraft rescue and firefighting, and emergency medical services for McGhee Tyson Airport. This role ensures compliance with municipal, state, and federal regulations, including those from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The Director is responsible for the strategic direction, regulatory compliance, and effective coordination of emergency preparedness and incident response efforts to safeguard lives and property across the airport campus.

Key responsibilities include:

·        Lead all public safety operations, including law enforcement, fire, EMS, and airport security.

·        Supervise, train, and evaluate staff performance while fostering development and accountability.

·        Ensure compliance with the Airport Security Program and TSA regulations.

·        Administer the departmental budget and maintain regulatory documentation.

·        Coordinate emergency planning and participate in safety committees.

·        Interpret and enforce public safety regulations with internal and external stakeholders.

·        Support planning and development activities with public safety input.

Preferred Qualifications

·        Bachelor’s degree in aviation management, law enforcement, criminal justice, or related field. Equivalent experience will be considered if ability to meet position requirements is demonstrated.

·        9+ years in airport security, emergency services, law enforcement or fire, including 5+ years in a leadership role.

·        Airport Security Coordinator and ACE-Security certifications (or ability to obtain within 6 months).

·        Certifications from the Tennessee POST and Fire Commission (or ability to obtain within 12 months).

·        Deep knowledge of TSA regulations, NIMS, and relevant federal aviation and public safety standards.

Salary & Benefits

The starting salary range for this position is $129,487 – $168,333. An exceptional candidate may be eligible to receive a starting salary slightly above the range with approvals. MKAA offers a competitive benefit package for this position including medical/dental benefits, disability/life insurance, a 401(a)-retirement program and relocation assistance. Final salary offer will be dependent upon experience. For instructions on how to apply, please click here to see the recruitment brochure, or visit the Current Projects page at www.adkexecutivesearch.com.

Filing Deadline: June 29, 2025