Insights What does an aviation Project Manager do?

Career prospects in the aviation industry in the Middle East are promising at present with further growth expected in the coming years. 

Some prominent Dubai aviation engineering projects include the Al Maktoum International Airport which is taking on the ambitious and groundbreaking challenge of building the world’s largest airport, and Dubai International Airport which in 2023, continued to be the busiest airport for international passengers for the tenth consecutive year. Project Managers are key when it comes to the successful execution of such projects.

Aviation Project Management roles are crucial in maintaining the growth in the industry, Aviation Project Managers play an important role when it comes to oversight, planning, finances, and key project milestones. 

We’ve expanded on the role of Aviation Project Managers at AtkinsRéalis so you can get a clearer understanding of what the role entails. 

What does a Project Manager do in aviation?

At AtkinsRéalis our Aviation Project Managers work as part of the wider Project and Programme Services in transportation. 

Project Managers in this industry provide the expertise of seasoned Aviation Engineers while operating as researchers or technical specialists on airfield design and construction projects that typically include runways, taxiways, and utility improvements. 

In terms of day-to-day projects, Aviation Project Managers might find themselves working on airport expansions, runway construction, terminal upgrades, and more to ensure the seamless and smooth completion of each project milestone.

Key responsibilities

As an Aviation Project Manager with AtkinsRéalis, you can expect the following responsibilities in your day-to-day:

• Providing high-quality project and programme management standards across the whole project lifecycle.
• Managing aviation construction projects in live operational environments, especially delivery.
• Advising clients on the project cost, programme, risks, and issues.
• Leading and managing multidisciplinary professional teams, monitoring subcontractors' performance, and maintaining compliance with contractual commitments.
• Producing monthly reports including project programmes, risk registers, etc.
• Implementing effective and efficient communication tools.
• Developing delivery plans for projects while performing to a high standard in changing environments.

Key skills, experience, and qualifications

• Hold or be working towards a Project Management qualification or Bachelor’s degree in the field of practice.
• Experience in managing a multi-disciplinary team with delivery experience being essential.
• Experience delivering construction projects in live operational environments as well as experience in best practice Project Management techniques.
• Knowledge of pre and post-contract Project Management responsibilities.

• The ability to manage a project throughout its lifecycle with proven experience in aviation or civil projects.
• Proven interpersonal skills including public speaking and persuasive ability as well as strong project financial management and team management skills
• Knowledge of production support systems and personal computer proficiency.

Rewards of working in aviation Project Management

Our professionals who work in aviation Project Management find this career path to be rewarding and lucrative with an abundance of growth opportunities. Some rewards of working in these roles are:

• Impact on global infrastructure: Aviation Project Managers play a critical role in the development of airports, runways, and other aviation infrastructure. Global travel, trade, and connectivity are key features of these projects.
• Opportunities to work on high-profile projects: Many aviation projects across the Middle East are high-profile and prestigious, they involve cutting-edge technology and groundbreaking innovation. Adding your expertise to these projects can be incredibly fulfilling as you can be at the forefront of advancements in the aviation sector.

• Diverse and international work environments: In your day-to-day, you’ll be collaborating with a diverse group of stakeholders including international teams, government bodies, and private companies. A dynamic and multicultural work environment allows you to gain experience in different areas and adds value to your CV or resume.

Join our Project & Programme Services team in the Middle East and expand your career

Aviation Project Management roles within the Middle East are immensely rewarding and offer a plethora of opportunities for career growth and development.

When you join AtkinsRéalis in the Middle East, you’ll be working towards engineering a better future for our planet while creating sustainable aviation solutions that connect people, data, and technology. 

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