ABOUT US: The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority
Established in 1978, the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority (MKAA) is a nonprofit corporation responsible for operating McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) and Downtown Island Airport (DKX). With 88-years of service to the East Tennessee region, McGhee Tyson Airport plays a vital role in the national air transportation network. Centrally located within a day's drive or a short flight from major cities, our airports are key gateways for travelers and businesses alike. If you're passionate about contributing to the continued success and growth of McGhee Tyson and Downtown Island Airports, we invite you to explore this opportunity further.
The Position:
The Telecommunicator I is responsible for receiving and dispatching communications using radio and telephone systems to support Public Safety Officers and Airport Security Officers in responding to alarms and incidents. This role handles both routine and emergency calls related to crimes, fires, medical needs, rescue situations, FAA flight information, maintenance issues, parking services, and general inquiries - determining the appropriate priority, location, jurisdiction, and agency for response. The position also monitors the Airport's CCTV system, crash phone, and security systems, taking appropriate action based on the nature of each situation. Additional responsibilities include initiating work orders for Authority personnel and airport tenants, coordinating communication between Federal, State, and local agencies, and ensuring timely emergency notifications to on-and-off airport response partners. The Telecommunicator I maintains accurate daily logs, reports, recordings, and essential records, including employee data and emergency contact information. ***Must be available for night, weekend, and holiday work.
Responsibilities:
- Uses electronic equipment and a multi-line telephone system to receive, process, and disseminate information. Maintains detailed logs of calls, incidents, and events using computer-based systems, including Microsoft Word and other software applications. Enters maintenance requests into the airport work order management system. Generates, prints, and distributes reports from the airport reporting system through internal distribution, email, or postal mail. Maintains accurate records across multiple computer programs to support daily airport operations and ensure efficient communication and documentation.
- Contacts contracted service providers for escalator and elevator repairs and coordinates service requests as needed. Notifies airport maintenance personnel when priority work orders are issued to ensure timely response and resolution. Serves as a communication point of contact by receiving telephone calls regarding lost and found property and forwarding information to the appropriate department or personnel for follow-up and resolution.
- Assists with monitoring airport security operations by utilizing surveillance systems, access control software, and related security technologies. Monitors and manages access control for the MKAA to help ensure the safety and security of airport facilities. Operates and monitors camera systems and other security equipment to identify, document, and report suspicious or unauthorized activity. Accesses and handles private, confidential, and security-sensitive information in accordance with established policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
- Implements the MKAA Emergency Response Plan during incidents and emergencies. Dispatches appropriate first responders and coordinates notifications as required. Facilitates and controls access for responding outside agencies to ensure timely entry and support during emergency operations.
- Creates and maintains spreadsheets in Microsoft Excel to support data collection, tracking, analysis, and reporting needs. Compiles, organizes, and updates information as requested to support operational planning, recordkeeping, and decision-making.
- Maintains and updates day-to-day operational resources within the dispatch center, including contact information for airport personnel, contracted service providers, and local law enforcement, fire, and emergency response agencies. Ensures that contact lists and reference materials remain accurate and up to date to support efficient communication and emergency response operations.
- Performs pre-operational procedures at the beginning of each shift to ensure communications, security, and dispatch equipment are functioning properly. Conducts a thorough information exchange with the outgoing shift to obtain updates on ongoing incidents, operational issues, equipment status, and other pertinent information to ensure continuity of operations and preparedness for duty.
- Coordinates with the Blount County Emergency Communications Center to facilitate the entry, modification, and validation of National Crime Information Center (NCIC) records. Reviews and verifies information to ensure agency records are accurate, complete, and consistent with external databases, supporting compliance with audit requirements and regulatory standards.
- Enters Tennessee Incident-Based Reporting System (TIBRS) reports to ensure accurate and timely crime data reporting in accordance with state and federal reporting requirements.
- May work under close supervision and guidance.
- Performs related work as required.
The Ideal Candidate:
The ideal candidate will possess a strong working knowledge of airport operations, telecommunications systems, fire alarm systems, emergency response procedures, and basic aircraft information. A thorough understanding of airport departments and their respective roles and responsibilities is highly desirable. Candidates should be proficient in the use of radio consoles, portable radios, access control and alarm monitoring systems, and be familiar with airport security policies, procedures, and facility layouts. Knowledge of airport property, buildings, and operational areas is essential. Success in this role requires excellent verbal and written communication skills, strong customer service abilities, and effective radio communication proficiency. The ability to multitask, remain organized, and prioritize competing responsibilities in a fast-paced environment is critical. The successful candidate will be adaptable, eager to learn new skills, and capable of managing multiple responsibilities simultaneously while maintaining a high level of professionalism and attention to detail. ***Must be available for night, weekend, and holiday work.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
High school diploma or equivalent; At least 3-years of experience working with the general public, and at least 2 of those years working in communications (such as emergency dispatch). Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) certification, Tennessee Incident Based Report System (TIBRS) certification, and National Incident Management System (NIMS) certification, preferred.
Salary and Compensation:
The hiring range for this position is $42,733.75 to $55,553.87 (DOE), with the final offer based on related experience. MKAA provides a highly competitive benefits package, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; disability and life insurance; vacation and sick leave; and a 401(a)-retirement program.
Application Deadline:
For best consideration, apply by Sunday, July 26, 2026. Position open until filled.
Please apply through this website (preferred), or mail resume to P.O. Box 15600 | Knoxville, TN 37901 | Attention: HR. Applications must be received by the stated deadline or postmarked by the deadline date to be considered. No phone calls please.
Applicants must submit ALL the following in order to be considered: Official Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority Application or resume (Applicants submitting resumes must submit a completed signed copy of the MKAA application prior to being interviewed).
Selection Process:
Applications (and additional documents, if applicable) will be reviewed to identify applicants whose qualifications most closely meet the needs of the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority. Employment process includes a security background check and physical (if applicable), which includes drug testing.
The Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority complies with the Tennessee Lawful Employment Act and federal law by participating in E-Verify. All post-offer new hires are verified electronically to confirm authorization to work in the United States.
- Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a long‑term basis.
- MKAA conducts random employee drug screenings.
- MKAA is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer
