Airfield & Airspace Planning Manager

Perth Airport is Australia’s Western Hub connecting the people, businesses and communities of Western Australia with the rest of Australia and the world. Operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week throughout the year, Perth Airport plays a significant role in providing economic, social and cultural benefits to West Australians. 

Perth Airport is investing more than $5 billion in new infrastructure so we can support our airline partners to grow, offering more services to new destinations and an improved customer experience. 

Over the coming decade we will expand T1 International, and build new domestic terminal facilities, a parallel runway, two multi-storey carparks and our first airport hotel. This will deliver one airport for the people of Western Australia which will host all flight services in a central location giving passengers a seamless, world-class travel experience. 

The Perth Airport estate is spread over 2100 hectares and has developed a $1.5 billion portfolio of existing industrial premises and significant vacant land holdings. 

We service a truly diverse community and play an important role in strengthening cultural, family and social bonds while supporting business, tourism and leisure travel. 

About the role 

We are seeking an experienced and strategic leader to join Perth Airport as Airfield and Airspace Planning Manager. In this pivotal role, you will lead the planning and development of airfield infrastructure and safeguard surrounding airspace to support Perth Airport’s long-term growth. You will ensure the airport remains a safe, efficient, and world-class aviation hub capable of meeting future passenger and aircraft demand. 

This role requires a strategic thinker with strong technical expertise in airport planning and airspace protection. You will collaborate with internal teams, external stakeholders, and regulatory authorities to deliver solutions that enhance operational efficiency, sustainability, and safety, while fostering a culture of excellence within your team. 

Key responsibilities include: 

• Lead and develop the Airfield and Airspace Planning team, fostering capability and collaboration.
• Oversee planning and testing of aeronautical infrastructure to meet future airline, freight, and general aviation needs.
• Manage frameworks under Airports (Protection of Airspace) Regulations and ensure compliance with aviation safeguarding standards.
• Provide technical input into Perth Airport’s Master Plan and Major Development Plans.
• Analyse movement growth data and industry trends to determine airfield capacity and expansion triggers.
• Deliver strategic reports and presentations to senior management to support decision-making.
• Build strong relationships with regulatory bodies, customers, and stakeholders to enhance Perth Airport’s reputation.
• Promote safety and environmental consciousness within the planning portfolio.

 About You 

To be success in this role, it is essential that you possess the following skills and qualities: 

• Hold a recognised qualification in aviation, airport planning, or engineering, demonstrating a strong foundation in aeronautical infrastructure and operational planning.
• Possess a tertiary degree in mathematics, science, or a related numerate discipline, ensuring analytical rigor and technical proficiency.
• Proven track record in leading teams and managing people effectively, with the ability to inspire, mentor, and drive high performance in a dynamic environment.
• Comprehensive understanding of legislation and regulatory frameworks governing airfield and airspace planning, with the ability to ensure compliance and safeguard operational integrity.
• Advanced skills in data analysis and application of contemporary planning methodologies to support strategic decision-making and optimise airfield capacity.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with experience in building strong relationships across diverse internal and external stakeholders, including regulatory bodies and industry partners.

About Us 

We offer a dynamic and supportive team culture, a contemporary workplace with great facilities and a modern approach to work/life integration. Our competitive remuneration package comes with additional company benefits including free parking. 

Perth Airport is an Equal Opportunities Employer. We are committed to building an equitable and diverse workforce representative of the community we serve. We encourage and welcome applications from all communities and backgrounds. 

Doing the right thing by the planet and future generations is important to us. At PAPL we place a strong emphasis on embedding sustainability throughout our business strategy and operations. We remain steadfast in our commitment to driving ESPG (Environmental, Social, People, Governance) performance across our value chain and areas that have material environmental and social impact. 

If this sounds like you, please get in touch.