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Aerial Firefighting Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Duties require full use of both arms, both legs and fingers to bend, turn, pull, crawl, kneel, and climb for such tasks as use of aerial ladders, firefighting equipment controls, arranging/connecting ...

Duties require full use of both arms, both legs and fingers to bend, turn, pull, crawl, kneel, and climb for such tasks as use of aerial ladders, firefighting equipment controls, arranging/connecting ...

FIREFIGHTER (BLS)

Albany, GA · On-site +1

$40K - $52K/yr

You will assist in the operation of firefighting vehicles, such as pumpers and aerial ladder trucks. Requirements Help Conditions of employment * Must be a US Citizen. * Must be determined suitable ...

FIREFIGHTER (BLS)

Albany, GA · On-site +1

$50K - $65K/yr

Operating both basic and specialized firefighting tools, including ladders, power tools, and ... Driver/Operator - Aerial (Must obtain within 1 year) Additional qualification information can be ...

Firefighter

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$56K - $88K/yr

... aerial ladder equipment, emergency medical equipment, and other firefighting and medical equipment as required. Performs salvage duties at fire scenes by placing salvage covers, sweeping, vacuuming ...

Firefighter

Alpharetta, GA · On-site

$56K - $88K/yr

... aerial ladder equipment, emergency medical equipment, and other firefighting and medical equipment as required. * Performs salvage duties at fire scenes by placing salvage covers, sweeping, vacuuming ...

Duties require full use of both arms, both legs and fingers to bend, turn, pull, crawl, kneel, and climb for such tasks as use of aerial ladders, firefighting equipment controls, arranging/connecting ...

Fire Apparatus Operator

Decatur, GA · On-site

$61K - $65K/yr

Fire Salary: $61,963 Hours of Work: Full-time FT Certified Firefighters - $3,000 Signing Incentive ... aerial apparatus, and other equipment; positions apparatus at incident scenes; reads gauges and ...

Operates or utilizes various emergency vehicles and emergency/medical equipment, tools and supplies, which may include a fire truck/engine, aerial apparatus, ambulance/rescue truck, pumps, generator ...

Operates or utilizes various emergency vehicles and emergency/medical equipment, tools and supplies, which may include a fire truck/engine, aerial apparatus, ambulance/rescue truck, pumps, generator ...

FIREFIGHTER/PARAMEDIC

Forest Park, GA · On-site

$82K - $102K/yr

... aerial apparatus, ambulance/rescue truck, pumps, generator, air compressor, hose, hydrant, nozzle ... and firefighting; conducts blood pressure checks for the public; installs smoke detectors ...

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Showing results 1-20

Aerial Firefighting information

See Georgia salary details

$24.1K

$50.3K

$84.4K

How much do aerial firefighting jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerial firefighting in Georgia is $50,330.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,400.00 and $58,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is aerial firefighting?

Aerial firefighting is the use of aircraft to combat wildfires from the air. Specialized planes and helicopters drop water or fire retardant chemicals directly onto fires or in strategic locations to slow their spread. These aircraft can also be used for reconnaissance, mapping, and transporting firefighters or equipment to hard-to-reach areas. Aerial firefighting is often coordinated with ground crews to maximize effectiveness and ensure safety. This method is essential in managing large, fast-moving, or remote wildfires.

What are aerial firefighting jobs?

Aerial firefighting jobs involve flying a plane or helicopter to extinguish wildfires, protect property, and save lives. Pilots fly as part of a crew and drop water or other fire retardants to contain the fire and minimize damage. Some aerial firefighters are “smokejumpers,” which means they parachute or rappel into wildfire areas to combat their spread. As an aerial firefighter, your responsibilities involve preserving woodlands and deserts while protecting the safety of residents and your crew, so these jobs are not for the faint of heart. You must be physically fit and able to endure stressful situations and harsh conditions for extended periods. Additionally, both roles require specialized training.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in aerial firefighting?

To thrive in aerial firefighting, you need advanced piloting skills, knowledge of fire behavior, and completion of specialized firefighting and aviation training. Experience with aircraft like helicopters or fixed-wing air tankers, FAA certifications, and proficiency in using GPS navigation and radio communication systems are typically required. Outstanding teamwork, decision-making under pressure, and situational awareness are crucial soft skills for this high-risk environment. These abilities are essential to ensure safety, effective wildfire suppression, and coordination with ground crews during complex emergency missions.

What are some of the biggest challenges faced by aerial firefighting crews during wildfire season?

Aerial firefighting crews often contend with unpredictable weather conditions, rapidly changing fire behavior, and challenging terrain that can make flying and water drops both risky and complex. Coordinating with ground teams is essential, as is maintaining constant communication to ensure safety and maximize effectiveness. Additionally, long hours and high-stress situations require strong teamwork and adaptability, making both physical fitness and mental resilience key components of success in this role.

What is the difference between Aerial Firefighting vs Helicopter Pilot?

AspectAerial FirefightingHelicopter Pilot
Required CertificationsCommercial Pilot License, Firefighting-specific trainingCommercial Pilot License, often with helicopter ratings
Work EnvironmentFire zones, remote areas, often during emergenciesVarious, including transport, surveillance, and firefighting support
Employer & Industry UsageFire departments, government agencies, firefighting contractorsAirlines, charter companies, government agencies, firefighting services

While both roles involve piloting helicopters, aerial firefighting focuses on using aircraft to combat wildfires, requiring specialized firefighting training. Helicopter pilots may work in diverse sectors, including transportation and surveillance, with less emphasis on firefighting-specific skills. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the industry.

What are popular job titles related to Aerial Firefighting jobs in Georgia?

For Aerial Firefighting jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Aerial Firefighting job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 6% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,330 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Constellis rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 116 rated security


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
Centerra is looking for Firefighter in Marietta, GA
Under general supervision perform the duties of firefighter consistent with the policies and practices established by the Department of Defense, the United States Air Force, and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), NAS 3306 and Prime Contractor for the performance under the FEMS III Contract. This is a union position.
RESPONSIBILITIES
The firefighter works under the General Guidance and Direction of the Assistant Chief Operations with following duties.
  • Assigned to the Department's Operations Division; Firefighters are assigned to an Engine Company, Rescue Squad and/or Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) vehicle
  • Responds to but not limited to the following: fire incidents, emergency medical incidents, fire alarms, hazardous materials, rescue operations including various types of rescue incidents such as high angle, confined space, trench, vehicle extrication, and building collapse
  • Follow Centerra Group and FEMS III SOPs/SOGs
  • Inspect vehicles, equipment, and consumables for which they are assigned each duty shift.
  • Meet all requirements for the position of Firefighter, participate in all assigned training and associated duties as a member of the Department's Operations Division including any/all fire ground assignments
  • Performs all other duties as assigned
  • The duties of this position require the incumbent to work under adverse environmental conditions.
  • Hazards encountered by firefighters include the potential for burns, dehydration and other effects of heat, smoke inhalation, heavy protective clothing, falling materials, or explosions.
  • Exposure to toxic materials; physical injury and sensory damage from firefighting activities and noise levels.
  • Dealing with victims of fire in varying states of fright, panic, and injury; and operating or riding on fire trucks at high speeds under adverse conditions.

QUALIFICATIONS (All Certifications Must Be Proboard or IFSAC)
  • Must have Firefighter I & II
  • Must have ARFF
  • Must have Driver Operator ARFF
  • Must have Driver Operator Pumper
  • Must have EMT-B (State or NREMT)
  • Preferred HAZMAT Technician
  • Preferred Fire Inspector I
  • Preferred Confined Space Rescue
  • Successfully pass annual NFPA 1583 agility test
  • Successfully pass annual NFPA 1582 Medical Physical
  • Possess a valid Georgia State driver's license
  • Rigorous, heavy physical effort is required in the frequent handling of objects such as cylinders and extinguishers weighing 45 lbs or more; may be required to lift/carry personnel such as an adult male in emergency situations
  • Duties require full use of both arms, both legs and fingers to bend, turn, pull, crawl, kneel, and climb for such tasks as use of aerial ladders, firefighting equipment controls, arranging/connecting hoses, rappelling, operation of fire truck and all types of rescue operations, etc

BENEFITS
Constellis offers a comprehensive, total rewards package that includes competitive compensation and a flexible benefits package that reflect its commitment to creating a diverse and supportive workplace.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Disability/Vet

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