Airport Operations Specialist/Firefighter

Kelowna International Airport; Kelowna; On-site; CAD 4,652,000 - 6,625,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Five-step wage progression

Starting wage $40.93/hour

Job summary

Kelowna International Airport seeks an experienced Airport Operations Specialist/Firefighter (AOS/FF) to operate rescue firefighting apparatus and respond to aircraft emergencies. You will ensure safety on runways and airside/groundside areas while coordinating with teams and external partners.

The role requires ARFF certification, MDO, radio license, and related credentials, plus strong communications and flexibility. Starting wage is $40.93/hour, with a five-step progression.

Qualifications

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• Strong communications and customer service skills essential.
• Ability to schedule and adapt to varying shifts and priorities.
• Experience in airport operations or firefighting is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Operate aircraft rescue firefighting apparatus and respond to aircraft emergencies.
• Provide first medical response and maintain runways, aprons, taxiways, and airside/groundside areas.
• Perform snow removal and ice control as part of safety operations.
• Coordinate with management and external partners to ensure safety and efficiency.

Skills

Effective communication

Customer service

Scheduling

Team collaboration

Education

High School diploma or equivalent

Tools

ARFF Certification

MDO Certification

Job description

Airport Operations Specialist/Firefighter

Join our dynamic team at Kelowna International Airport! Long-term growth leads to business success — and here at Kelowna International Airport – YLW we welcome team members who can help push our vision forward. We’re currently searching for an experienced Airport Operations Specialist/Firefighter (AOS/FF) to operate specialized aircraft rescue firefighting apparatus to respond to aircraft, medical and other emergency calls associated with the airport under the supervision of the AOS/FF Crew Captain. An AOS/FF performs groundside and airside maintenance functions that involve equipment operation and various manual tasks, with an emphasis on proactive airport safety. The incumbent will provide aircraft rescue firefighting and first medical response services and operates a variety of light to heavy/specialized equipment to maintain safe runways, aprons, taxiways and other airside and groundside locations, including snow removal and the application of ice control chemicals.

Help YLW continue to be an Airport of the Future. Our diverse and dynamic team strives to innovate to make things better, work as one team, serve proudly, and lead responsibly. The incumbent works in close collaboration with the members of the management team and a wide network of internal and external contacts and partners.

You have a High School diploma or equivalent and have experience directly related to the position. This role requires excellence in communications, a focus on customer service, scheduling and work flexibility, and the physical ability to perform the duties.

Required qualifications include:

• Current ARFF Certification as per CARs 323
• Maintenance Driver Operator Certification (MDO)
• Aeronautical Restricted Radio Operators License
• Forklift Certification
• WHMIS
• Ability to obtain Airside Vehicle Operator Permit (AVOP)
• RAIC or the ability to obtain Transport Canada Security Clearance
• First Medical Responder 3 with AED & Spinal
• Possession and Acquisition License (Firearms)
• Pesticide Applicator’s License
• Transportation of Dangerous Goods Certificate
• Ability to travel to the United States
• BC Drivers License – Class 3 with Air Ticket

Live, work and play in one of Canada’s fastest growing cities. Kelowna boasts miles of lake access, public areas and outdoor recreation opportunities, a vibrant downtown and cultural scene, healthy and connected neighbourhoods, and a world-renowned College and University. You’re only a quick link to the world via the Kelowna International Airport. Grow your career in an organization that supports employee work-life balance, and career and professional development. This non-exempt position offers a five-step wage progression; starting at $40.93 per hour.