CHIEF, AIR OPERATIONS, FIRE SERVICE - EMERGENCY APPOINTMENT
LOS ANGELES, CAPosted a month ago
Job summary
Job post source
This job is directly from County of Los Angeles
Job overview
The Chief, Air Operations, Fire Service leads the aerial firefighting program for the LA County Fire Department, managing aviation operations and related mechanical services to support fire suppression efforts.
Responsibilities and impact
The role involves planning, directing, and supervising aerial firefighting operations, coordinating with other agencies, piloting aircraft, managing air tanker activities, training personnel, maintaining aircraft and equipment, developing firefighting techniques, and representing the department in technical meetings.
Experience and skills
Candidates must have at least three years of experience as a helicopter pilot in fire suppression operations, hold a Commercial Pilot's certificate with a rotorcraft-helicopter rating from the FAA, and possess a valid California Class C Driver License or equivalent.
Work environment and culture
The department emphasizes anti-racism, diversity, and inclusion, and supports a fair chance employment policy, fostering an equitable and inclusive work environment.
Company information
The County of Los Angeles Fire Department is responsible for fire protection and emergency services across LA County, actively responding to natural disasters such as wildfires and windstorms.
Team overview
The position reports to a Deputy Fire Chief and involves leadership of the aerial firefighting team, including flight and ground support personnel.
Job location and travel
The job is based in Los Angeles County with shifts including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays, and requires readiness to work under emergency conditions.
Application process
Applications are accepted online starting April 4, 2025, with ongoing review until needs are met; applicants must submit required certificates and complete supplemental questionnaires as part of the process.
Unique job features
This is an emergency appointment related to recent natural disasters, with an initial 90-day hire period subject to performance evaluation for permanent placement.
Company overview
The County of Los Angeles is a governmental entity that provides a wide range of public services to its residents, including health services, public safety, social services, and infrastructure maintenance. It generates revenue primarily through property taxes, sales taxes, and federal and state funding. Established in 1850, the County has evolved to become one of the largest and most diverse counties in the United States, serving over 10 million residents. It is known for its significant role in regional governance and its commitment to addressing complex urban challenges. Working for the County offers opportunities to contribute to community welfare and engage in public service initiatives.
How to land this job
Tailor your resume to emphasize your three years of experience as a helicopter pilot in fire suppression operations and your FAA Commercial Pilot certificate with a rotorcraft-helicopter rating, as these are critical requirements for the Chief, Air Operations position at the County of Los Angeles Fire Department.
Highlight your leadership skills in managing aerial firefighting programs, coordinating multi-agency air operations, and supervising flight and ground support personnel, reflecting the administrative and technical responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Apply through multiple channels including the official County of Los Angeles careers website and LinkedIn to maximize your chances of being noticed for this emergency appointment role.
Connect with current employees in the Fire Department's air operations division on LinkedIn to ask about the role and department culture, using ice breakers like commenting on recent wildfire responses or asking about innovations in aerial firefighting techniques.
Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'aerial firefighting,' 'helicopter pilot,' 'FAA Commercial Pilot certificate,' 'fire suppression operations,' and 'air operations management' to ensure it passes automated screening.
Leverage Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate applying through multiple platforms, tailor your resume for ATS, and identify relevant LinkedIn contacts, allowing you to focus your time on preparing for interviews and networking effectively.
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