AIR OPERATIONS ASSISTANT

Organizational Context

The United Nations Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH) provides support to various entities including the Gang Suppression Force, BINUH, Haitian National Police, and Haitian Armed Forces, as well as technical assistance to the Organization of American States. This temporary Air Operations Assistant position is located in Santo Domingo within the Air Terminal Unit of the Aviation Section, reporting to the Chief Air Terminal Unit. The role ensures safe and efficient air transportation for personnel and goods.

Job Purpose

The Air Operations Assistant is responsible for ensuring the safety and efficiency of air transportation for both civilian and military personnel, equipment, and goods to and from the field mission. This involves carrying out ramp operations tasks, maintaining ramp discipline, and enforcing safety zones around aircraft. The role requires coordination with ground handling agents on all operational aspects, including facilitation, services, and equipment. Additionally, the Assistant monitors airfield notices, supports refueling coordination, ensures safe passenger movement during boarding and disembarkation, and maintains accurate records of ramp operations and aircraft dispatch. The position also involves coordinating with the UNSOH Mission Air Operation Center and local authorities for flight support and operational requirements, potentially requiring work outside normal hours.

Responsibilities

Execute ramp operations, ensuring discipline and enforcing safety zones around aircraft. Assist aircrew with airport dispatch and coordinate with Ground Handling Agents for all mission aircraft operational needs, including cleaning, ground handling equipment, refueling, and transportation. Monitor NOTAMs and airfield notices. Support refueling operations and maintain safety perimeters. Coordinate passenger boarding and disembarkation processes with MOVCON. Implement ramp safety procedures and hazard controls, ensuring passenger compliance. Conduct basic visual checks of ground support equipment. Coordinate Foreign Object Debris (FOD) campaigns and complete hazard identification forms. Maintain accurate records of ramp operations and aircraft dispatch activities. Report incidents, near-misses, and damage promptly. Coordinate with the UNSOH Mission Air Operation Center for flight movements and liaise with local authorities (Civil Aviation, Airport Authority, Military Police) for necessary support, including passes, authorizations, and hangar space.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in Air Transport Operations is required. This minimum is reduced to three years for candidates with a first-level university degree or higher. Experience in ramp safety and/or aircraft ground handling practices is essential. Basic radio communication skills and physical fitness for outdoor ramp work are desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, Communication (clear and effective speaking/writing, active listening), Teamwork (collaboration, valuing input, learning from others, supporting group decisions).

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