Air Operations Officer
Organizational Context
This position is within the Aviation Section of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) in Bentiu, a non-family duty station classified as 'E'. The Air Operations Officer reports to the Chief Air Operations Unit in Juba, contributing to the mission's aviation support.
Job Purpose
The Air Operations Officer is responsible for monitoring and ensuring air operations comply with all relevant regulations, including Air Tasking Orders, UN directives, and international aviation standards (ICAO, IATA). This role involves selecting appropriate air assets based on cost, safety, and efficiency, and managing all flight requests, including special missions and VIP transport. The officer plans and coordinates daily flight schedules and task orders, develops and implements aviation standard operating procedures, and ensures flight crews are fully briefed on safety protocols and UN policies. Additionally, the role includes coordinating Search and Rescue operations, managing weather information dissemination, overseeing flight following, and liaising with various stakeholders for aviation movement matters.
Responsibilities
Monitor air operations for compliance with Air Tasking Orders, Standard Operating Procedures, UN directives, DPO Aviation Manual, ICAO, IATA, and host country AIPs. Select the most suitable air assets considering cost, safety, and efficiency. Review and manage operational, logistical, special mission, and VIP flight requests and manifests. Plan and coordinate daily task orders and air support requirements. Prepare and publish flight schedules and air task orders. Develop and implement aviation SOPs aligned with international standards. Brief flight crews on UN policies, safety procedures, and aviation requirements. Ensure availability of reference documents for flight and aviation personnel. Coordinate Search and Rescue air operations and weather observation/dissemination. Manage daily flight operations through Flight Following. Liaise with other sections and international organizations on aviation matters. Prepare budget inputs and estimates. Coordinate airfield operations and projects with host government and airport authorities. Initiate procurement for airfield equipment and systems. Prepare Scope of Work, technical evaluations, and ground support evaluations.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of progressive experience in air transport operations or aviation safety is required, including at least three years of managerial experience in coordinating complex strategic air transport operations internationally. Experience with ICAO standards, managing international air transport operations within UN field operations or similar international organizations, and knowledge of UN financial regulations are desirable.
Skills
Professionalism, Planning & Organizing, Accountability, Air Operations Management, Aviation Safety, Flight Coordination, Budgeting, Procurement, Stakeholder Liaison, ICAO/IATA Standards.