Battalion Chief, Aircraft Rescue Firefighting Division
Job Description
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, Aviation Department, LaGuardia Airport seeks a highly qualified Battalion Chief for its ARFF division. This role demands exceptional leadership in firefighting and rescue operations, particularly in aircraft incidents. The successful candidate will help oversee emergency responses, maintain operational readiness, and ensure the safety and protection of life and property at LaGuardia Airport. We seek candidates who not only possess technical proficiency but also excel in leading by example, fostering a constructive and cooperative work culture, and taking charge in inspiring and uniting a highly efficient and collaborative team.
Responsibilities
- Lead ARFF operations, ensuring high staff competence and adherence to safety and procedural standards.
- Develop and enforce effective service delivery methods, operational procedures, and safety measures.
- Maintain compliance with FAA Part 139 ARFF requirements, including hazardous materials handling and storage (Part 139.321).
- Design and conduct emergency training workshops in collaboration with ARFF Command staff.
- Participate in policy implementation, records management, and procedural development for ARFF.
- Assist in preparing operational budgets, managing personnel, and conducting performance evaluations.
- Collaborate and coordinate effectively with Battalion Chiefs at other Port Authority airports to achieve consistent standards and unified efforts.
- Be available for nonconventional work hours, including emergencies and training sessions.
Job Requirements
Eligibility / Qualifications / Experience Requirements:
- Proven expertise in ARFF and comprehensive all-risk fire operations.
- A minimum of 60 college credits, from an accredited college or university with coursework in Fire Protection Administration, Public Administration, or related field; or Chief Officer Certification from accredited program; or a combination of education, training and job-related experience as stated below.
- At least Ten (10) years of full-time paid experience in structural firefighting, aircraft rescue firefighting (ARFF), or fire service management with a minimum of five (5) years supervisory experience as a Fire Officer in a state, municipal fire department, DoD ARFF operation or equivalent agency. Up to four years of job-related experience can be substituted for up to two years of the education requirement for this position; or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above.
- Evidence of ongoing professional development, such as advanced training in fire service leadership, incident command systems, hazardous materials management, and other relevant areas.
- In-depth knowledge of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) certification standards and Department of Defense (DoD) ARFF operations, including a thorough understanding of Part 139 rules and regulations.
- Demonstrated proficiency in a broad range of skills including fire suppression, rescue operations, emergency medical services (EMS), and fire prevention techniques.
- This includes the ability to effectively manage and respond to complex emergency scenarios in a high-risk airport environment.
- Leadership experience in positions compliant with the National Incident Management System (NIMS), showcasing the ability to coordinate, command, and control emergency response operations effectively.
- Exceptional decision-making abilities, particularly in high-pressure situations, coupled with strong skills in conflict resolution and crisis management.
- Possession of a valid Driver’s License, with the capability to operate a variety of emergency response vehicles and equipment.
- Direct experience in the development and implementation of emergency response plans, training programs, and operational procedures in compliance with FAA and other relevant federal, state, and local regulations.
- A history of successful collaboration with various agencies, including local, state, and federal entities, in the planning and execution of emergency response activities.
- Candidates who meet these requirements will have demonstrated the necessary blend of technical skill, tactical acumen, and leadership ability to excel as a Battalion Chief at LaGuardia Airport's ARFF division.
- The selected candidate will need to undergo and pass a detailed background check.
Physical and Working Conditions:
- Ability to perform heavy physical tasks, work in various environmental conditions, and handle hazardous materials.
- Requirement to wear uniforms during working hours.