Overview
Air Navigation Services Director Jobs in Karbala, Iraq at CareCone Group
Title: Air Navigation Services Director
Company: CareCone Group
Location: Karbala, Iraq
Role Overview
The Air Traffic Control (ATC) Director is responsible for the safe, compliant, and efficient delivery of air traffic services (Tower & Ground operations) at the airport.
This role provides strategic and operational leadership for ATC functions, ensuring alignment with national aviation regulations and ICAO SARPs, while maintaining high standards of safety, capacity optimization, and service delivery.
The ATC Director oversees all ATC-related units including Operations, CNS (Engineering & Maintenance), AIS, and Meteorology, ensuring seamless coordination across functions and stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Leadership & Service Delivery
- Ensure safe and efficient ATC operations (TWR/GND) in line with ICAO and national regulatory requirements.
- Develop and implement operational procedures, SOPs, and contingency plans.
- Monitor operational performance, service levels, and capacity optimization initiatives.
- Lead coordination with airlines, airport operations, military units, and ANSPs for real-time and strategic planning.
- Drive continuous improvement in operational efficiency, safety, and service quality.
Regulatory Compliance & Safety
- Ensure full compliance with ICAO SARPs (Annexes 1, 2, 3, 10, 11, 19) and relevant documents (e.g., PANS-ATM Doc 4444).
- Act as the focal point for regulatory audits, inspections, and certifications.
- Implement and oversee Safety Management System (SMS) and Quality Management System (QMS) within ATC.
- Lead risk assessments, incident investigations, and corrective actions in coordination with the Safety Department.
- Promote and maintain a strong safety culture across all ATC units.
Technical Oversight (CNS, AIS, MET)
- Oversee the availability, reliability, and compliance of all ATC-supporting systems:
- Communication, Navigation & Surveillance (CNS)
- Aeronautical Information Services (AIS)
- Meteorological (MET) systems
- Ensure systems are fit-for-purpose, properly maintained, and audit-ready.
- Support modernization initiatives including airspace design, PBN implementation, and technology upgrades.
Strategic Planning & Projects
- Lead or support airspace restructuring and optimization initiatives in coordination with regulators and stakeholders.
- Contribute to long-term planning for capacity enhancement and infrastructure development.
- Represent ATC in national/international forums, committees, and working groups.
- Advise Airport Director on technical and operational matters.
People & Workforce Management
- Ensure availability of qualified ATCOs, AIS officers, CNS engineers, and MET staff.
- Oversee training, licensing, and competency management in line with ICAO standards.
- Foster a culture of performance, accountability, and continuous learning.
- Conduct performance reviews and succession planning.
- Coordinate with HR on recruitment, workforce planning, and employee relations.
Budgeting & Administration
- Develop and manage annual OPEX budgets and CAPEX plans for ATC.
- Monitor costs and ensure efficient resource utilization.
- Prepare departmental reports, KPIs, and performance summaries.
Qualifications & Experience
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Aviation, Engineering, or Air Traffic Management
- Master’s degree (preferred but not mandatory)
Experience
- Valid or previously held Air Traffic Controller (ATCO) license
- 12–18 years of experience in ATC, including 5+ years in leadership roles
- Experience in managing multi-disciplinary ATC environments (CNS, AIS, MET)
- Exposure to international operations, regulatory environments, or airport projects preferred
- Experience in airspace design, modernization, or system implementation is an advantage
Skills & Competencies
Technical
- Strong knowledge of:
- ICAO SARPs and PANS-ATM
- ATC operations (Tower/Ground)
- CNS/AIS/MET systems integration
- Familiarity with ATC systems and operational tools
Leadership & Behavioural
- Strategic thinking with hands-on operational understanding
- Strong decision-making under pressure
- Effective stakeholder management and communication skills
- Ability to lead multi-functional and multicultural teams
- High level of accountability and safety orientation
Languages
- English: Mandatory (fluent)
- Arabic: Preferred (depending on location)
Certifications (Preferred, not mandatory)
- ATCO License
- SMS / Safety Management training
- PANS-OPS or ICAO competency-based training exposure
