Airport Operation Centre Operator (AOCO)

The Organization
The Winnipeg Airports Authority (WAA) is a community-based, non-share capital corporation that operates, manages, maintains, and invests in the Winnipeg Richardson International Airport and affiliate businesses.
WAA is a critical player in the development of one of Canada’s strategic transportation hubs. As a perennial “Manitoba Top Employer”, WAA prides itself as an organization that attracts engaged employees with the right combination of skills, values, and attitude to help us achieve our mission of connecting communities. http://www.waa.ca.

Job Title: Airport Operation Centre Operator (AOCO)
Reports to: Manager, Airport Operations
Salary (2026): Band 1 ($62,056 - $6+,58+)
Type: Permanent, Full Time
Eligibility: Open to internal candidates only
Position Commencement Date: October 2026
Closing Date: June 30, 2026

The Opportunity
Reporting to the Manager, Airport Operations, the Airport Operation Center Operator (AOCO) is responsible for monitoring and responding to internal and external communications in a 24/7 operations center. This includes serving as the central communication point for security operations, coordinating and dispatching security responses, and monitoring access control systems.
Additionally, this role is responsible for planning and assigning airport resources such as gates, counters, and baggage belts, and ensuring flight information is accurate and up to date. This role requires continuous monitoring and adjustment of flight schedules and resource allocations based on operational requirements and stakeholder feedback to meet real-time demands.

Responsibilities include:
Dispatch resources using the ticketing software system
Monitor critical systems, including fire panels and building alarm systems
Oversee airport operations through the CCTV system
Serve as the the central communication hub and generate work orders in the ticketing system
Respond to stakeholder, customer and public inquiries via phone and email
Secure the Airport primary security line
Monitor access control using software and CCTV
Coordinate appropriate responses to safety and security situations as they arise
Manage RAIC (Restricted Area Identification Card) and keycard access issues
Maintain detailed logs of security incidents and proactively identify recurring patterns
Plan daily terminal facility allocations
Assign gates and counters, and update flight information displays accordingly
Communicate with stakeholders and emergency services during emergency response scenarios
Ensure adherence to the Common Use Plan (CUP) to ensure equitable and efficient gate and counter assignments
Escalate safety, security and operational concerns to leadership
Prepare and submit daily shift reports
Conduct verbal briefings during shift handovers
Support on-the-job training of team members
Perform other related duties as assigned
Selection Criteria include:
Successful completion of high school along with relevant education and/or experience in aviation or equivalent regulated environments.
Experience in dispatching, resource management, emergency response protocols, and operational guidelines adherence is considered as asset
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Consistent professional interaction with internal and external ents, stakeholders, and members of the public, maintaining a positive and composed demeanor in all working environments
Demonstrates sound judgment and the ability to make reasonable decisions independently, without direct supervisor
Ability to assess complex situations rapidly and make data-driven decisions aligned with operational objectives
Proactive mindset with the ability to anticipate developments and stay ahead of emerging needs or situations
Collaborative team player who willingly provides support to colleagues and actively contributes to group goals
Demonstrated proficiency in adapting to new technologies and quickly acquiring technical skills
Strong attention to detail, common sense, active listening and project management capabilities
Exceptional conflict resolution and de-escalation skills
Work with us!
Highly competitive salary.
Full Benefits package of Health, Dental & Vision.
DC Pension Plan.
Healthcare Spending Account to use on additional benefit expenses.
Lifestyle Spending Account to use on Wellness expenses such as health and fitness.
Employee Assistance Program.
Supported Training & Development opportunities.
Opportunity to work with a high functioning team of professionals working on a diversified portfolio.
Awarded Manitoba’s Top Employers for 13 consecutive years.
Condition of employment is the ability to obtain and maintain an Airport Restricted Area Identification Card.
Winnipeg Airports Authority is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. We encourage all qualified applicants experiencing barriers to equity to self-identify in their application.
Accommodations are available upon request during the assessment and selection process.