Deputy Fire Chief

Roanoke Regional Airport Commission • Roanoke, VA

7d

About The Position

The Deputy Fire Chief provides leadership and administrative management for the Roanoke Regional Airport Commission Fire Department and is responsible for overseeing daily operations and managing on-duty firefighter assignments. This role serves as the administrative and operational supervisor for fire and rescue staff and may assume the responsibilities of the Director of Public Safety in their absence, when designated. The Deputy Fire Chief may act as Incident Commander during fire and EMS incidents and plays a critical role in ensuring operational readiness, compliance, and safety.
This position is open to current employees in good standing who demonstrate strong leadership, professionalism, and a commitment to the mission of the Airport Public Safety Department.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree in Fire Science or Emergency Services Management (Preferred, equivalent experience considered)
• Firefighter I Certification (Virginia Department of Fire Programs) – Required
• Minimum of 5 years of supervisory experience in an airport fire department or public safety department with ARFF responsibility – Required
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to follow detailed instructions and maintain attention to detail
• Proficiency with computer systems and standard office software
• Extensive knowledge of ARFF operations and fire prevention practices
• Knowledge of firefighting and emergency medical equipment operation and maintenance
• Must meet TSA requirements for secure airport access (SIDA, AOA, Sterile Areas)
• Must obtain ARFF certification
• Must obtain EMR/First Responder certification
• Must pass and maintain physical agility requirements
• Must maintain an acceptable driving record
• Position is classified as Essential Personnel

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's Degree in Fire Science or Emergency Services Management (Preferred, equivalent experience considered)

Responsibilities

• Supervise fire and rescue personnel and oversee daily department operations
• Manage shift scheduling, staffing coverage, and approve payroll
• Conduct employee evaluations and ensure completion of required training
• Maintain departmental records, including FAA-required documentation
• Ensure station cleanliness, equipment readiness, and arrange facility repairs
• Develop and manage the Fire Department budget
• Ensure compliance with all policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements
• Serve as liaison with airport tenants, employees, passengers, and mutual aid partners
• Maintain a strong working relationship with the Airport Deputy Police Chief
• Provide ARFF services in compliance with FAA regulations (Title 14 CFR Part 139)
• Respond to aircraft emergencies, hazardous materials incidents, fuel spills, and security threats
• Direct firefighting operations and oversee crash site recovery efforts
• Establish and maintain incident command at emergency scenes
• Conduct and participate in ARFF training and drills
• Ensure proper use and maintenance of PPE, apparatus, and equipment
• Support fire prevention education initiatives
• Perform limited maintenance on station facilities and equipment
• Maintain operational readiness of all personnel and equipment
• Provide immediate basic medical care until advanced personnel arrive
• Respond to medical emergencies including injuries, illness, and accidents
• Administer first aid, CPR, AED, and other EMR-level interventions
• Coordinate victim removal and communicate with dispatch
• Maintain compliance with FAA medical response training requirements
• Maintain and oversee medical equipment readiness

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees