Senior Officer - Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF)

Senior Officer - ARFF

Key Responsibilities of Role    

Shift Operations and Resource Management:

Supervise all ARFF activities during a designated shift, ensuring crew readiness, equipment functionality, and adherence to safety protocols.

Monitor airport activities to detect and respond to potential safety risks or emergency situations.

Manage ARFF resources effectively, including personnel and equipment, to ensure optimal operational performance and emergency response capabilities.

Conduct daily briefings with firefighters and other staff to discuss operational priorities and safety protocols.

Emergency Response Coordination:

Take charge of ARFF response during aircraft emergencies, directing firefighting actions, coordinating crew deployment, and communicating with emergency response teams.

Coordinate with airport operations, airlines, and local emergency responders to ensure seamless incident management.

Direct evacuation, fire suppression, and rescue efforts following ICAO, CAA, and local guidelines.

Conduct post-incident reviews and prepare reports with root-cause analysis and improvement recommendations.

Monitor Airport Conditions and Weather Patterns:

Continuously assess airport conditions and weather patterns to identify potential risks and ensure ARFF preparedness for various scenarios.

Provide real-time updates to ARFF teams and adjust response plans as needed based on changing conditions.

Conduct Pre-Flight Inspections and Equipment Checks:

Perform or oversee pre-flight inspections of ARFF vehicles and firefighting equipment to verify their readiness and functionality.

Report any equipment issues and coordinate with maintenance teams for quick resolution.

Personnel Training and Compliance with Regulations:

Supervise ARFF staff on shift, ensuring adherence to procedures and safety standards.

Provide on-the-spot coaching and performance management to firefighters.

Assist in planning and conducting regular drills, fire simulations, and emergency training exercises.

Ensure shift-based personnel meet regulatory and certification requirements (e.g., ICAO fire training).

Oversee and manage ARFF crew training schedules, ensuring that all personnel maintain their qualifications and adhere to relevant safety regulations.

Documentation and Reporting:

Keep accurate and comprehensive records of ARFF activities, including equipment inspections, training sessions, and incident responses.

Ensure that all documentation is up-to-date and compliant with regulatory requirements, facilitating audits and reviews.

Key Stakeholders - External:

Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)

Local Fire Services Department

Airlines Operations

Ground Handling Companies

ARFF Equipment Manufacturers/Service Providers

Insurance Companies

Local Community Leaders

Qualifications and Experience    

Education Qualification:

Bachelor's Degree or Diploma in Fire Science, Aviation Safety, or a related field.

Certifications like - National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) certifications (e.g., Fire Officer I & II). International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Airport Emergency Planning (AEP) Supervisor (Level 1) is required.

Work Experience:

5-7 years of experience in aircraft rescue and fire fighting (ARFF) operations, with a minimum of 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role, preferably in an airport setting.

Experience Level

Senior Level