Director of Construction Program Management – Aviation Infrastructure: Essential Career Guide

Discover high-level opportunities in construction program management for aviation infrastructure. This role at Turner & Townsend in San Francisco offers a competitive salary of $200,000 to $250,000 annually, targeting leaders in airport projects and large-scale infrastructure development. Ideal for experts in aviation construction management, this position drives program success amid booming U.S. airport investments.

Introduction

The aviation sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, with U.S. airports investing billions in expansions and modernizations. The Director of Construction Program Management – Aviation Infrastructure role at Turner & Townsend exemplifies leadership positions in this field. Based in San Francisco, CA, this job demands overseeing complex programs for airport terminals, runways, and support facilities. Turner & Townsend, a global leader in construction consulting, seeks seasoned professionals to ensure projects meet timelines, budgets, and safety standards.

Why pursue this? Aviation infrastructure jobs are projected to surge due to federal funding like the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), creating demand for program managers in aviation construction. This guide breaks down the role, qualifications, and steps to apply, optimized for professionals searching construction management aviation careers.

Analysis

Role Responsibilities in Depth

A Director of Construction Program Management in aviation infrastructure leads multidisciplinary teams on multi-billion-dollar projects. Responsibilities include program strategy development, risk mitigation, stakeholder coordination with FAA regulators, and performance metrics tracking. At Turner & Townsend, this involves client advisory for airports like SFO, ensuring compliance with aviation-specific standards such as TSA security and environmental regulations.

Key metrics: Directors typically manage portfolios exceeding $500 million, achieving 95%+ on-time delivery rates based on industry benchmarks from the Construction Industry Institute (CII).

Required Skills and Experience

Candidates need 15+ years in construction program management, with 5+ in aviation. Essential skills: PMP or equivalent certification, proficiency in Primavera P6 or MS Project, deep knowledge of A/E/C contracts, and leadership in Lean construction methods. Aviation expertise covers airfield pavements, passenger terminals, and sustainability integrations like LEED certifications.

Company Context: Turner & Townsend’s Expertise

Turner & Townsend provides program management, cost consultancy, and project controls for infrastructure globally. In aviation, they’ve supported projects at Heathrow, JFK, and regional U.S. hubs. Their San Francisco office focuses on West Coast aviation booms, leveraging data-driven tools for cost certainty.

Summary

This senior role at Turner & Townsend in San Francisco, CA, offers $200,000-$250,000 USD annually for directing aviation infrastructure construction programs. Posted recently, it emphasizes strategic oversight amid rising airport demands. No fees for recruitment, and unsolicited CVs are not accepted, aligning with standard practices to protect candidates.

Key Points

Practical Advice

How to Prepare Your Application

Tailor your resume to highlight aviation program management achievements, quantifying impacts like “Led $300M terminal project, under budget by 8%.” Obtain certifications such as CCM (Certified Construction Manager) or aviation-specific like ACI-ICAO courses. Network via LinkedIn with Turner & Townsend’s aviation leads.

Interview Preparation Tips

Expect case studies on aviation risks (e.g., bird strike mitigations) and behavioral questions using STAR method. Demonstrate knowledge of BIM for aviation and ESG compliance. Research SFO’s master plan for local relevance.

Application Process

Apply directly via Turner & Townsend’s career portal. Avoid third-party submissions, as they are not considered. Prepare for multi-stage interviews: HR screen, technical panel, executive presentation.

Points of Caution

Avoid Recruitment Scams

Turner & Townsend never charges candidates fees for recruitment. Beware of fraudsters posing as recruiters demanding payments. Verify opportunities only on official sites. Unsolicited CVs sent to internal staff or managers from external firms are disregarded.

Market Realities

High competition in San Francisco’s construction jobs aviation market; ensure your portfolio showcases FAA-compliant projects. Relocation may be needed, with CA’s high living costs offsetting salary perks.

Comparison

Vs. Other Construction Management Roles

Compared to general construction program directors ($150k-$200k avg.), aviation roles command 20-30% premiums due to regulatory complexity. Versus rail infrastructure directors ($180k-$220k), aviation offers more international exposure but stricter security clearances.

Salary Benchmarks

Source: Glassdoor, Salary.com 2023-2025 data. Turner & Townsend’s range exceeds medians due to seniority.

Legal Implications

In California, this role falls under at-will employment with protections via AB5 for independent contractors. Aviation projects require adherence to FAA Part 139 and NEPA environmental reviews. Discrimination-free hiring complies with FEHA; salary transparency laws mandate range disclosure, as provided ($200,000-$250,000). No fees ensure compliance with Labor Code Section 9998 against job scams.

Conclusion

The Director of Construction Program Management – Aviation Infrastructure at Turner & Townsend represents a pinnacle for aviation construction leaders. With San Francisco’s strategic location and a salary of $200,000-$250,000, it’s primed for those shaping tomorrow’s airports. Apply strategically, heed cautions, and leverage your expertise to secure this impactful role in booming program management aviation infrastructure.

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