AIRPORT ASSISTANT FIRE CHIEF

ABOUT THE ROLE Assist the Airport Fire Chief with planning, developing, and implementing Fire and Security Programs at Snohomish County Airport. This role provides leadership and management for the Fire/Security Department, ensures an effective incident response capability, and supports airport community and tenant relations programs. The position acts on behalf of the Airport Fire Chief during their absence or as directed. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Provide direction to all fire and security programs, including planning, organizing, coordinating, and supervising airport public safety work. - Plan, schedule, supervise, and evaluate subordinate employees and recommend personnel actions. - Enforce airport, county, state, and federal (FAA) rules, ensuring compliance with Part 139 Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) requirements. - Monitor and evaluate service delivery efficiency and recommend process improvements. - Develop programs, standard operating procedures, and training materials to ensure best practices. - Represent the airport and county at public, governmental, and professional meetings. - Maintain liaison with other fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and regional programs. - Contribute to the annual budget, capital improvement program, and department strategic plans. - Assist in developing the Airport Certification Manual, Airport Emergency Plan, and mutual aid agreements. - Respond to fire and aircraft disaster alarms, command or delegate command of emergency operations, and remain on call 24 hours a day when in the local area. - Maintain necessary records, prepare required reports, and serve as incident commander under Unified Command when necessary. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor’s degree in Fire Science, Emergency Services Management, Public Administration, or a closely related field. - Certification as an IFSAC (or ProBoard or DOD equivalent) Fire Officer III. - At least two (2) years of experience serving as a Chief Officer in a Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) Part 139 ARFF and structural fire department. - OR any equivalent combination of training and/or experience that provides the required knowledge and abilities. - Must pass job-related tests. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Valid Washington State Driver's License (a combination license endorsement may be required). - May be required to pass a post-offer physical examination. - Preferred qualifications include ProBoard/IFSAC certifications as Fire Officer IV, Fire Instructor III, Fire Inspector III, Firefighter I/II, Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighter, or HAZ MAT Incident Commander. - Must be willing to work nonconventional hours, including days off for training, inspections, and emergencies. - Physical demands include the ability to operate in office and outdoor environments in all weather types and lift up to 50 pounds. SELECTION PROCESS - First review of applications will occur on August 30, 2026 (posting remains open until filled). - Verification of minimum qualifications, education, and required certifications. - Completion of job-related tests. - Post-offer physical examination. - Standard county interview and selection procedures. HOW TO APPLY - Submit an application through the official Snohomish County employment portal. - Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early, as the first review of applications occurs on August 30, 2026. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: Snohomish County - Location: Paine Field Fire Dept, 10630 36th Place West, Everett, WA - Department: Airport - Division: Airport Fire - Job Type: Full-Time - Job Number: 2026-00072 - Opening Date: 07/19/2026 - Closing Date: 8/30/2026 at 12:00 AM Pacific Time (US & Canada); Tijuana (Remains open until filled) - Equal Opportunity: Snohomish County is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Accommodations for individuals with disabilities are provided upon request.