Manager of Security

About Aero

Aero is committed to redefining air travel by offering direct premium flights through private terminals that ensure low-contact, luxurious experiences reminiscent of the golden age of aviation. The company values transparency, support, accountability, and a culture of trust and purpose to enhance employee fulfillment.

Position Overview

The Manager of Security is responsible for the day-to-day management of Aero's TSA-approved security program, ensuring compliance throughout its on-demand and public charter flight operations. With a fleet of over seven jets that exceed 12,500 lbs maximum certificated takeoff weight, the company operates under the TSA Twelve-Five Standard Security Program (TFSSP) and DOT/14 CFR Part 380 public charter regulations. This role involves developing, maintaining, and enhancing security procedures such as passenger and property screening, access controls, threat handling, and personnel vetting. The Manager interfaces directly with the TSA and other government entities to maintain regulatory adherence.

Key Responsibilities

• Administer and update the TSA-approved TFSSP and related directives to reflect evolving regulations affecting Part 380 and on-demand operations.
• Ensure compliance with 49 CFR Part 1544, TFSSP, TSA screening requirements, and pertinent international aviation security standards applicable to operations across multiple jurisdictions including EASA and ICAO Annex 17.
• Act as the primary liaison for the company with the TSA, managing audits, inspections, and required corrective actions.
• Oversee passenger and accessible property screening at private terminals and operating locations, ensuring vendor and personnel training and compliance with standards.
• Manage access controls for aircraft, restricted zones, and sensitive information, including the issuance and tracking of credentials per the TSA ID Media Program.
• Supervise and guide Ground Security Coordinators, ensuring each flight and station has qualified, trained personnel fulfilling TFSSP responsibilities.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive security training programs with initial and recurrent curricula for crews, coordinators, and contractors to address regulatory and threat changes.
• Coordinate Security Threat Assessments and criminal background checks, maintaining thorough and auditable records.
• Maintain procedures to handle threats such as bomb scares, suspicious items, unruly passengers, and elevated threat levels, leading incident response and investigations.
• Protect Sensitive Security Information in compliance with 49 CFR Part 1520, managing access, storage, dissemination, and destruction.
• Keep all mandated security documentation current and submit required reports and metrics to regulators and internal stakeholders.
• Conduct internal audits, drills, and inspections to identify security gaps, track improvements, and promote continuous enhancement of security measures.
• Collaborate with Flight Operations, Experience, Maintenance, as well as airport and law enforcement partners to integrate security protocols into operations and guest services.
• Support emergency preparedness and business continuity plans related to security threats and events.
• Maintain and update the Company Security Manual, National Terrorism Advisory System Contingency Plan, and other relevant security manuals ensuring all are version-controlled and compliant.

Required Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship is mandatory.
• Minimum five years of experience in aviation security, law enforcement, military security, or regulated transportation security roles.
• Capability to obtain and sustain successful Security Threat Assessment (STA) and Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) clearance.
• Proven ability to interact with regulatory bodies like TSA or FAA during audits and inspections.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, with experience in documentation and training development.
• Ability to maintain sound judgment and composure in critical and urgent situations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in fields such as aviation management, criminal justice, homeland security, or equivalent professional experience.
• Experience serving as an AOSC or security program manager for Part 135 or Part 121 operators.
• Strong familiarity with federal regulations including 49 CFR Parts 1520, 1540, 1544; TSA TFSSP; and FAA parts 135 and 380.
• Knowledge of by-the-seat public charter flight operations and private terminal screening processes.
• Experience in selecting, deploying, or managing TSA-approved security screening tools and vendors.
• Relevant industry certifications, such as AAAE Certified Member or emergency management credentials.

Work Environment

Work settings include remote locations, private terminals/FBOs, and airport ramp areas. Flexibility is required for extra hours to support operations and respond to security incidents, including travel to operational stations. Physical requirements may involve standing for prolonged periods and occasional lifting in operational environments.

Location and Travel

This is a remote role; however, candidates must live within one hour's driving distance of one of Aero's main locations (VNY, ASE, OPF, TEB/HPN) and be willing to travel domestically and internationally as needed.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Aero is committed to equal opportunity in employment. The provided job description is subject to modification in response to regulatory or operational changes.

Hiring Process

Artificial intelligence tools may be used to assist with reviewing applications, resume analysis, and response evaluations, but final hiring decisions are made by humans. Contact the company for detailed information about data processing methods.