WORK OBJECTIVE: This position is responsible for directing the operations of NFTA's Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Department, including proper training of ARFF officers, maintaining proper staffing levels, equipment and components and ensuring compliance with regulatory mandates. Work includes responsibility for the command of airport crash/fire/rescue operations and review of all tenant modifications with the NFTA. The position conducts safety inspections as they pertain to fire safety and NYS Code compliance. Work requires the application of considerable independent judgment and initiative and is reviewed by the Director of Aviation through conferences and observation of results obtained.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such duties are a logical assignment to the position. • Develops and/or issues departmental policies and procedures and establishes short-term and long-term departmental goals. • Develops and implements the Disaster Preparedness Program for BNIA and NFIA. • Develops and implements plans and procedures for proper handling and storage of non-fuel related hazardous substances and materials and assist other departments as needed. • Assists with the management of the Environmental Health and Safety Code compliance duties for BNIA and NFIA. • Managing inspection and maintenance of emergency detection and suppression systems at BNIA and NFIA. • Overseeing building and fire codes compliance. • Assist in coordinating and managing the OSHA/PESH program and BNIA and NFIA. • Coordinating the BNIA and NFIA spill response plan • Prepares, presents and monitors the departmental budget. • Serves as liaison with other departments and agencies. • Monitors equipment maintenance program. • Supervises and ensures appropriate performance levels for direct and indirect subordinates; conducts performance evaluations; issues counseling forms/disciplinary actions; handles employee complaints and grievances; recommends the hiring, termination and promotion of staff. • Responds to emergencies twenty-four hours per day. • Coordinates with other departments the Comprehensive Safety Program for the NFTA as it pertains to BNIA. • NYS Code enforcement for the NFTA and other properties owned by the NFTA. • Performs administrative and related duties as required.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES: Thorough technical knowledge of the principles, practices, and methods of modern firefighting, emergency and medical techniques and the ability to apply that knowledge in the performance of specified duties. Ability to research existing and proposed industry standards and adapt them to departmental operations. Ability to think quickly and effectively in order to make decisions in emergency situations. Ability to communicate effectively in both verbal and written form. Ability to operate office equipment and familiarity with Microsoft Office software applications.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Tasks involve the intermittent performance of extremely physically demanding work, typically involving some combination of reaching, bending, stooping, kneeling, crouching, running, climbing, and that may involve the lifting, carrying, pushing, and/or pulling of extremely heavy objects (150+ pounds).
ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS: When operating a vehicle or automotive equipment, work includes exposure to some traffic conditions. Due to the nature and location of the work environment, tasks include potential for intermittent exposure to disagreeable elements, e.g., heat, humidity, inclement weather. Some tasks include working around moving parts, carts, and materials handling where physical risks are predictable and/or controllable by observance of standard safety precautions.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: An Associate's degree in Fire Science or relevant field; possession of Pro Board ARFF Certification, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification, Fire Officer I and II certification, and five (5) years' experience in the management and administration of a civil or military aviation fire/rescue operation; or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Must possess and maintain a valid NYS driver's license. Must be able to obtain and maintain a SIDA badge/US Customs and Border Protection Seal. Currently hold or have the ability to obtain NYS Code Enforcement Officer, Fire Officer III and IV, and NYS Fire Instructor I with ICS 300 and 400 within one year of hire.
NOTE: TO APPLY: Send NFTA employment application, resume and cover letter specifying the job number #148-26-N to: NFTA Human Resources 181 Ellicott Street Buffalo, NY 14203 Or email to:
[email protected] Application Deadline: September 8, 2026
