About this opportunity
Avports LLC lists this BLV - General Manager/ARFF Chief (Temporary) opportunity in new memphis, Illinois. Review the employer’s description below for duties, qualifications and application requirements.
Job description
Lead Mission-Critical Airport Operations and Public Safety
Avports is seeking an experienced General Manager / ARFF Chief to lead airport operations, security, and Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) functions at MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV). This is a full-time, temporary leadership position serving as the senior on-site operational authority for Avports.
This opportunity is ideal for an experienced airport operations and public safety professional who can lead multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced, safety-critical environment while maintaining a strong focus on regulatory compliance, operational continuity, and exceptional service.
The Opportunity
In this temporary leadership role , you will oversee daily airside, terminal, and landside operations; direct ARFF and emergency response activities; manage regulatory compliance; and lead staff responsible for maintaining safe, efficient, and reliable airport operations.
You will collaborate with airport leadership, tenants, public safety partners, regulatory agencies, contractors, and other stakeholders while fostering a culture of safety, accountability, teamwork, and customer service.
Key Responsibilities
Serve as General Manager / Chief of Public Safety and the senior on-site operational authority for Avports
Oversee airside, landside, terminal, ARFF, wildlife, security, and public safety activities across all shifts
Lead emergency response and irregular operations with incident command responsibility
Maintain compliance with FAA Part 139, TSA 49 CFR Part 1542, the Airport Certification Manual, the Airport Security Program, and other applicable requirements
Direct the Airport Operations Center, daily inspections, patrols, reporting, and corrective actions
Lead FAA and TSA inspections, audits, exercises, and operational readiness efforts within Avports' scope
Develop and maintain operating procedures, emergency response protocols, training programs, and mutual aid plans
Plan, assign, schedule, coach, and supervise departmental personnel and shift operations
Coordinate with airport leadership, tenants, contractors, agencies, and other stakeholders to resolve operational issues
Support budgeting, procurement, equipment readiness, inventory management, resource allocation, and cost control
Maintain accurate safety, security, training, incident, and operational documentation
What You Bring
High school diploma or equivalent required; post-secondary education or technical training preferred
At least eight years of relevant experience in airport operations, security services, or ARFF, including at least five years in a leadership role, preferred
Demonstrated experience managing emergency response, airport operations, and regulatory compliance in a commercial service airport environment
Strong leadership, incident command, decision-making, communication, and problem-solving capabilities
Comprehensive knowledge of FAA Part 139, TSA 49 CFR Part 1542, airport security operations, and ARFF requirements
Ability to lead a multidisciplinary team and maintain operational continuity in a 24/7 environment
Proficiency in report writing, documentation, and standard business and operational software
Additional Requirements
Valid driver's license required
Illinois Firearm Owner Identification Card required
Must meet FAR Part 139 ARFF training requirements within the introductory period
Current CPR and AED certification required within the introductory period
Fire Instructor I and Fire Officer I certifications required within one year of hire
Must obtain AAAE Airport Certified Employee – Airfield Operations within eighteen months of hire
Must pass TSA background screening and maintain eligibility for airport access credentials
Must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship
Work Environment
This full-time, temporary position is fully on-site and operates within an active 24/7 airport environment.
Work is performed in indoor and outdoor airport environments, including terminals, maintenance shops, ramps, runways, and aircraft service areas.
The position may involve exposure to varying or extreme weather conditions, fire and smoke, high noise levels, jet blast, moving aircraft and vehicles, heavy equipment, and hazardous chemical or fuel spills.
The role requires frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, climbing, sustained alertness, and the ability to lift, carry, drag, or move heavy objects and equipment.
Job-related pre-employment physical and respiratory protection evaluations and the use of required personal protective equipment may apply.
Must be available to work varying shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, emergencies, and mandatory overtime as operationally required.
Domestic travel, including occasional overnight stays, may be required.
Why Join Avports
Lead mission-critical operations at a commercial service airport
Make a direct impact on safety, regulatory readiness, and operational performance
Work with an experienced airport management company with a strong aviation legacy
Guide a multidisciplinary team in a highly visible leadership role
Compensation & Benefits
Avports offers a competitive compensation package and benefits, which may include:
Medical, dental, and vision coverage
401(k) retirement plan
Paid time off and holidays
Professional development opportunities
Apply Today
If you are an experienced airport operations and public safety leader who can guide teams through complex, safety-critical operations, we encourage you to apply for this full-time temporary opportunity.
Avports is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination. We provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage applications from all qualified candidates.
Compensation details: Yearly Salary
PI1b48aec6e9a
Worksite address
new memphis, IL, 62266, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.