Airport Operations Systems Lead

We are looking to hire a Airport Operations Systems Lead who will be responsible for overseeing the implementation, integration, and operational management of critical airport systems across terminal operations, airfield operations, and baggage handling. This role is pivotal in delivering and maintaining mission-critical technologies that enable safe, efficient, and seamless airport operations while driving the adoption of AI and ML-powered capabilities for smarter decision-making and optimized passenger flows. Our client, based in Dubai, is one of the leading multinational organisation in the region. This position is a contract role with an initial duration of 14 months and is renewable.Key responsibilities:Lead the design, deployment, and integration of airport systems supporting terminal operations (check-in, boarding, gates), airfield management (AODB, resource management, surveillance systems), and baggage handling (BHS, BRS, Baggage Track & Trace). Define technical and operational requirements in alignment with airport strategic goals, safety standards, and future capacity planning. Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, consultants, and solution providers to ensure systems are implemented on schedule, within scope, and meet all performance and quality benchmarks. Oversee the daily performance and reliability of operational systems to ensure uninterrupted 24/7 functionality. Develop and maintain SOPs, system incident response protocols, and business continuity strategies to ensure high availability and resiliency. Coordinate closely with AOCC, IT, baggage operations, and airside teams to enable integrated, real-time situational awareness. Drive innovation through the implementation of AI, Machine Learning, and predictive analytics to enhance decision support, passenger flow optimization, and resource allocation. Lead digital transformation efforts by introducing automation, cloud-based architectures, and intelligent systems for enhanced operational insight. Ensure seamless system interoperability across all operational domains including security, passenger services, baggage, and flight operations. Lead lifecycle upgrades, migrations, and ensure alignment with cybersecurity and compliance frameworks. Knowledge, skills & experience:Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Information Technology, or Aviation Management; Master’s degree preferred. 10 years of experience in airport systems or aviation IT, including leadership in large-scale technology implementations. In-depth knowledge of Terminal systems (CUTE/CUPPS, CUSS, FIDS, BRS, Security Screening), Airfield systems (AODB, RMS, Surface Movement, Airport Surveillance, GMS) and Baggage systems (BHS, SCADA, integration with airline DCS and BRS) Experience in designing or implementing AI/ML-enabled systems to support data-driven operations. Proven track record in enhancing seamless passenger processing, self-service technologies, and biometric integrations. Familiarity with aviation standards (IATA, ICAO, ACI), and ITSM frameworks (e.g., ITIL). Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal. Proficiency in English language is essential. Arabic language proficiency is a plus.