Air Operations Assistant (Aviation Fire Marshal)

About the role

The United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) seeks an Air Operations Assistant specialized as an Aviation Fire Marshal. The role ensures emergency aircraft crash, rescue and firefighting (ARFF) services are ready and compliant across all mission airfields, helipads and temporary landing sites.

Key responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, supervise and monitor ARFF operations at MINURSO airfields, helipads and temporary sites.
• Maintain operational readiness of firefighting vehicles, rescue equipment, agents, communication systems and PPE.
• Conduct regular inspections of firefighting facilities and equipment to verify serviceability and compliance with UN Aviation Standards and ICAO SARPs.
• Develop, revise and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and contingency plans for aviation firefighting.
• Organise and lead emergency response exercises, aircraft accident simulations and live firefighting drills.
• Provide technical guidance on aircraft rescue, fire hazards, HAZMAT handling and incident management.
• Assist in preparing technical specifications for emergency crash and rescue (ECR) goods and services.

Required profile

• Proven experience in aviation fire protection, aircraft rescue and firefighting operations.
• Familiarity with UN aviation manuals, ICAO SARPs and relevant safety standards.
• Ability to supervise teams, conduct inspections and manage emergency response exercises.
• Strong analytical skills for fire risk assessments and technical guidance.

Required skills

• Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) operations
• Emergency Crash Rescue (ECR) coordination
• Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) handling
• Fire safety inspections and risk assessments
• Firefighting equipment maintenance