BLV - General Manager/ARFF Chief
About The Position
Avports is seeking a General Manager / ARFF Chief to lead all aspects of airport operations, terminal safety, security, and Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) at BLV. This is a hands-on leadership role serving as the senior on-site authority responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant airport operations in accordance with FAA Part 139, TSA regulations, and operational standards. You will lead high-performing teams, manage emergency response and regulatory programs, and ensure the airport operates with a strong focus on safety, customer service, and business continuity.
Requirements
- Minimum combination of at least eight (8) years of airport operations, firefighting experience, ARFF and/or security services
- Seeking at least 5 years in a leadership role, ideally at a Part 139 commercial service airport of similar size and complexity or equivalent
- Proven experience managing emergency response, airport operations, and regulatory compliance programs
- Strong leadership presence with the ability to make decisions in high-pressure environments
- Excellent communication skills across verbal, written, and radio channels
- FAR Part 139 ARFF compliance
- Fire Instructor I and Fire Officer I
- CPR/AED certification
- Valid driver’s license and CDL
- Firearms Owner’s Identification FOID (Illinois)
- Ability to obtain AAAE ACE (Airfield Operations)
- TSA background check eligibility
Nice To Haves
- Calm, decisive leader in emergency and high-risk situations
- Strong situational awareness in a dynamic airfield environment
- Committed to delivering safe, reliable, and customer-focused operations
- Skilled at leading teams in a 24/7 aviation environment
- Driven to improve operations while maintaining strict regulatory compliance
- Strong teambuilding skills
Responsibilities
- Serve as Avports’ on-site senior leader
- Oversee and direct airside, landslide, and terminal operations and security
- Ensure operational readiness, staffing, and performance across all functions
- Direct ARFF and emergency response activities with full incident command
- Ensure compliance with FAA Part 139, TSA 49 CFR Part1542and airport rules and regulations
- Support the compliance of the Airport Emergency Plan (AEP) and Airport Security Plan
- Lead inspections, audits, drills, and regulatory reporting
- Oversee safety programs including FOD, wildlife, and AOA operations
- Lead, coach, and develop operations and public safety teams
- Manage staffing, scheduling, and workforce planning
- Foster a culture of safety, accountability, and customer service
- Promote and motivate a team member environment
- Ensure effective procedures are in place kept up to date
- Ensure effective training is in place
- Oversee Airport Operations Center and daily inspections
- Inspect and report compliance of airfield systems, lighting, and navigation aids
- Monitor operational performance and drive continuous improvement
- Partner with airport sponsor, FAA, TSA, law enforcement, airlines, and tenants
- Coordinate multi-agency response and mutual aid planning
- Represent Avports with professionalism within the airport community
Benefits
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans
- Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
- Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance options
- Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance Plan options
- Supplemental Insurance Plan options
- 401(k) Profit-Sharing Retirement Plan
- Vacation and Sick Leave
- Paid Company Holidays
- Professional development resources
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
Education Level
No Education Listed
