BLV - General Manager/ARFF Chief in Mascoutah, Illinois at Avports LLC

About Avports

Founded in 1927 as part of Pan American World Airways, Avports is one of the most experienced and trusted airport operators in the industry. Today, we manage operations at 14+ airports across the U.S. and Caribbean, with continued growth underway.

Our portfolio includes commercial service airports, general aviation facilities, joint-use environments, and emerging aviation technologies. We are committed to innovation, operational excellence, and delivering value to the communities we serve.

MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) is a primary non-hub commercial service airport, offering a dynamic operational environment with strong growth potential.

The Role

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.

Key Responsibilities

Airport Operations & ARFF Leadership

Serve as Avports’ on-site senior leaderOversee and direct airside, landslide, and terminal operations and securityEnsure operational readiness, staffing, and performance across all functionsDirect ARFF and emergency response activities with full incident commandSafety, Security & ComplianceEnsure compliance with FAA Part 139, TSA 49 CFR Part1542and airport rules and regulationsSupport the compliance of the Airport Emergency Plan (AEP) and Airport Security PlanLead inspections, audits, drills, and regulatory reportingOversee safety programs including FOD, wildlife, and AOA operations

Leadership & Team Development

Lead, coach, and develop operations and public safety teamsManage staffing, scheduling, and workforce planningFoster a culture of safety, accountability, and customer servicePromote and motivate a team member environment

Operations & Infrastructure Oversight

Ensure effective procedures are in place kept up to dateEnsure effective training is in placeOversee Airport Operations Center and daily inspectionsInspect and report compliance of airfield systems, lighting, and navigation aidsMonitor operational performance and drive continuous improvement

Stakeholder Coordination

Partner with airport sponsor, FAA, TSA, law enforcement, airlines, and tenantsCoordinate multi-agency response and mutual aid planningRepresent Avports with professionalism within the airport community

What You Bring

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 equivalentProven experience managing emergency response, airport operations, and regulatory compliance programsStrong leadership presence with the ability to make decisions in high-pressure environmentsExcellent communication skills across verbal, written, and radio channels

Required Certifications & Credentials (within time frame communicated):

FAR Part 139 ARFF complianceFire Instructor I and Fire Officer ICPR/AED certificationValid driver’s license and CDLFirearms Owner’s Identification FOID (Illinois)Ability to obtain AAAE ACE (Airfield Operations)TSA background check eligibility

What Makes You a Great Fit

Calm, decisive leader in emergency and high-risk situationsStrong situational awareness in a dynamic airfield environmentCommitted to delivering safe, reliable, and customer-focused operationsSkilled at leading teams in a 24/7 aviation environmentDriven to improve operations while maintaining strict regulatory complianceStrong teambuilding skills

Work Environment

This role is fully on-site and requires regular work outdoors in varying weather conditions, with exposure to active airfield operations, aircraft, and heavy equipment. The position supports a 24/7 operational environment, including emergencies and irregular operations.

Why Join Avports

Be part of a growing, forward-thinking airport operatorLead operations at a unique and expanding commercial airportWork alongside experienced aviation professionalsContribute to the future of aviation operations and safety

Equal Employment Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. We provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage applications from all qualified candidates.

Compensation and Benefits Overview

Benefits may include:

Medical, Dental, and Vision PlansHealth Savings and Flexible Spending AccountsShort and Long-Term Disability Insurance optionsLife and Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance Plan optionsSupplemental Insurance Plan options401(k) Profit-Sharing Retirement PlanVacation and Sick LeavePaid Company HolidaysProfessional development resources