Airport Operations Specialist Firefighter – Kelowna International Airport (YLW) | Full Guide & Requirements

Overview

Kelowna International Airport (YLW) is hiring two full-time Airport Operations Specialist Firefighters (AOS/FF). This is a highly specialized aviation firefighting and airside operations role responsible for aircraft rescue, emergency response, heavy equipment operation, and maintaining safe airport operations.

If you are seeking a career in aviation firefighting or want to apply for the Kelowna Airport Operations Specialist Firefighter position, this guide outlines the full job posting, required qualifications, documents you must upload, and key deadlines.

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What Does an Airport Operations Specialist Firefighter Do?

Airport Operations Specialist Firefighters perform both emergency response and critical operational duties that support the safety of Kelowna International Airport.

Primary Responsibilities

• Provide Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) services in accordance with CARs 323.

• Respond to medical emergencies as a First Medical Responder Level 3.

• Monitor and manage multiple radio frequencies and phone communications in the Operations Room.

• Complete emergency reports, documenting weather, ground conditions, and incident details.

• Report current airfield conditions to ensure regulatory compliance and safe aircraft movement.

• Carry out airside and groundside inspections, documenting hazards and maintenance needs.

• Operate light-to-heavy equipment, including:

  • Snow removal machinery

  • Ice control chemical application equipment

  • Specialized ARFF apparatus

• Conduct wildlife control, landscaping, litter pickup, and general site maintenance.

This role blends firefighting, emergency response, airport operations, and heavy equipment proficiency—ideal for someone who wants a dynamic emergency services job in the aviation sector.

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Required Qualifications

To be considered fully qualified, applicants must possess the following credentials:

Mandatory Certifications & Licences

• High School Diploma (or equivalent)

• Current ARFF Certification (CARs 323 compliant)

• Maintenance Driver Operator (MDO) Certification

• Aeronautical Restricted Radio Operator Licence

• Forklift Certification

• WHMIS Certification

• First Medical Responder Level 3 (with AED & Spinal)

• Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL)

• Pesticide Applicator’s Licence

• Transportation of Dangerous Goods Certificate

• BC Class 3 Driver’s Licence with Air Brake Endorsement

• Ability to obtain:

  • Airside Vehicle Operator Permit (AVOP)

  • Transport Canada RAIC clearance

• Ability to travel to the United States

Important Note

If no fully qualified applicants are available, candidates without all certifications may be hired under a training opportunity. Training rates will apply.

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Required Application Documents

When applying, you must upload:

Mandatory Documents

• Resume

• Driver’s Abstract

If you do not have a Driver’s Licence or the abstract is delayed, upload a Word/PDF stating one of the following:

• “Driver’s Abstract is on order.”

• “Do not possess a Driver’s Licence.”

Optional Documents

• Cover Letter

• Education and Certification Documents (uploaded as “Other Documents”)

Internal CUPE Airport applicants must apply before 4:00 PM on November 25, 2025 to be considered based on seniority.

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Position Details

• Posting Number: CK53893P

• Position Title: Airport Operations Specialist Firefighter

• Positions Available: 2

• Employment Type: Full-Time

• Union Group: CUPE Airport

• Division: Airport Operations

• Work Location: Kelowna International Airport (YLW)

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Pay, Shifts, and Schedule

• Starting Wage: $39.47/hour (Step 1 of a 5-step pay progression)

• Shift Schedule: 4-on / 4-off rotation

• Shift Length: 12 hours

  • 06:00–18:00 (Day shift)

  • 18:00–06:00 (Night shift)

This schedule aligns with typical 24/7 airport emergency services operations.

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Why This Position Is in Demand

This role is highly sought after because it offers:

• Specialized ARFF training and real-world aviation emergency experience

• Strong union compensation and structured wage progression

• Advancement opportunities in airport operations and emergency services

• A rare opportunity to work as both a firefighter and an airside operator

With only two positions available, the competition is strong—especially among those seeking a pathway into aviation firefighting.

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How to Apply Successfully

To strengthen your application:

1. Highlight ARFF, firefighting, or emergency services experience

Use keywords such as:

• Aircraft Rescue Firefighting

• Emergency Medical Response

• Airside Operations

• Heavy Equipment Operation

• Airport Safety & Compliance

2. Include all certifications in your resume

Upload copies as “Other Documents” to meet the posting requirements.

3. Ensure your Driver’s Abstract is attached

Or upload the required placeholder document.

4. Submit before the closing date

Applications close: December 19, 2025