BLV - General Manager/ARFF Chief

About the role

Avports is a seasoned airport operator founded in 1927, managing 14+ airports across the U.S. and Caribbean. BLV, one of our managed airports, is a primary non-hub commercial service airport with significant growth potential.

Key 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 Part 1542, and 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 and kept up to date
• 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

What You Bring

• Minimum of 8 years of airport operations, firefighting experience, ARFF, and/or security services
• At least 5 years in a leadership role, preferably 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
• Required certifications and credentials within a specified timeframe: FAR Part 139, ARFF compliance, Fire Instructor I and Fire Officer I, CPR/AED certification, valid driver's license and CDL, FOID (Illinois), and firearms owner's identification

What Makes You a Great Fit

• 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

Work Environment

• Full-time on-site position
• Regular work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Exposure to active airfield operations, aircraft, and heavy equipment
• Supports a 24/7 operational environment, including emergencies and irregular operations

Compensation and Benefits

• Benefits may include: 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