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Aircraft Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FIREFIGHTER

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$40K/yr

Experience performing and directing assigned crew in the performance of crash/rescue and firefighting duties at airfields handling large or complex aircraft (e.g., fighters, bombers, cargo, passenger)

This includes Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) and traditionalstructural fire control/prevention. Additionally, provides Emergency MedicalServices (EMS) for the Airport's employees, tenants ...

Operator, Fire Vehicle

Enid, OK · On-site

$26.10/hr

Incumbent assists in training personnel, may serve as Lead Firefighter when qualified, participates in structural and aircraft firefighting, standby operations, and specialized rescue tasks, and ...

Firefighter

Moses Lake, WA · On-site

$25/hr

Respond to Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) incidents * Respond to Confined Space Rescue emergencies * Respond to Hazardous Materials incidents * Respond to fire and hazardous alarms * Perform ...

Trained IAW TO 00-105-E-9 for aircraft shutdown and exterior fires/not including interior fires or ... Certified Firefighter I/II (DoD, PROBOARD, or IFSAC) * Ability to pass a National Agency Check with ...

Firefighter

FL · On-site

Provides standby support for aircraft arrivals/departures and related activities as required ... Firefighter I & II * NIMS ICS 100, 200, 700 and 800 * Airport Firefighter * Hazardous Materials ...

Trained IAW TO 00-105-E-9 for aircraft shutdown and exterior fires/not including interior fires or ... Certified Firefighter I/II (DoD, PROBOARD, or IFSAC) * Ability to pass a National Agency Check with ...

Firefighter

FL · On-site

Provides standby support for aircraft arrivals/departures and related activities as required ... Firefighter I & II * NIMS ICS 100, 200, 700 and 800 * Airport Firefighter * Hazardous Materials ...

Provides standby support for aircraft arrivals/departures and related activities as required ... Firefighter I & II * NIMS ICS 100, 200, 700 and 800 * Airport Firefighter * Hazardous Materials ...

Firefighter

Winston Salem, NC · On-site

$46K - $53K/yr

Knowledge of all types of aircraft, airport facilities and capacities of apparatus and Equipment ... Firefighter II Certification EMT-Basic or higher Hazardous Materials Responder/Operations Valid ...

Firefighter

Winston Salem, NC · On-site

$46K - $53K/yr

Knowledge of all types of aircraft, airport facilities and capacities of apparatus and Equipment ... Firefighter II Certification EMT-Basic or higher Hazardous Materials Responder/Operations Valid ...

FIREFIGHTER

Barstow, CA · On-site

$42K/yr

... aircraft, motor vehicles, wild land, and hazardous materials and providing emergency medical ... Firefighter I Firefighter II Airport Firefighter Hazardous Materials Awareness Hazardous Materials ...

... aircraft, motor vehicles, wild land, and hazardous materials and providing emergency medical ... Firefighter I Firefighter II Airport Firefighter Hazardous Materials Awareness Hazardous Materials ...

Showing results 21-40

Aircraft Firefighter information

See salary details

$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do aircraft firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for aircraft firefighter in the United States is $59,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aircraft firefighter?

Aircraft firefighters, also known as Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) personnel, are specialized firefighters trained to respond to emergencies involving aircraft. They are responsible for rescuing passengers and crew, extinguishing aircraft fires, and managing hazardous materials incidents at airports. These professionals operate specialized vehicles and equipment designed for rapid response and effective firefighting on airfields. Their training includes understanding aircraft construction, firefighting techniques specific to aviation, and emergency medical response. Aircraft firefighters play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of air travel and airport operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aircraft firefighter, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aircraft Firefighter, you need specialized training in fire suppression, hazardous materials handling, and aircraft rescue, often supported by certifications such as Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) and EMT credentials. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, emergency communication systems, and rescue tools is critical for effective response. Strong teamwork, quick decision-making, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills for this high-stress role. These competencies are crucial to ensure the safety of passengers and crew, protect property, and respond rapidly to aviation emergencies.

What are some common challenges faced by aircraft firefighters during emergency responses at airports?

Aircraft Firefighters often work in high-pressure environments where rapid decision-making and teamwork are crucial. Responding to aircraft incidents requires specialized training to handle aviation fuel fires, rescue operations, and hazardous materials, all while adhering to strict airport safety protocols. Navigating large airfields and coordinating with air traffic control and other emergency personnel can be challenging, but these efforts are vital for ensuring passenger and crew safety. Continuous training and drills help firefighters stay prepared for the unique scenarios they may encounter.

What is the difference between Aircraft Firefighter vs Airport Firefighter?

AspectAircraft FirefighterAirport Firefighter
CertificationsFirefighter certification, Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) certificationFirefighter certification, ARFF certification
Work EnvironmentAircraft rescue, airport tarmac, aircraft firesAirport grounds, runways, terminal areas
Employer & IndustryAirlines, airports, military basesCommercial airports, cargo hubs

Both Aircraft Firefighters and Airport Firefighters hold similar certifications and work in airport environments. However, Aircraft Firefighters specialize in aircraft rescue and firefighting on the tarmac, focusing on aircraft-specific emergencies, while Airport Firefighters handle broader airport safety, including terminal fires and ground incidents. The roles often overlap, but Aircraft Firefighters are specifically trained for aircraft-related emergencies.

How to become an aircraft firefighter?

To become an aircraft firefighter, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training in aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) through certified programs. Certification from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and emergency medical training are often required, along with physical fitness and the ability to work in high-pressure environments. Experience in firefighting or emergency response can also be beneficial.

Is it hard to become an aircraft firefighter?

Becoming an aircraft firefighter requires completing specialized training, obtaining certifications such as the Firefighter I and II, and often having prior firefighting experience. The job is physically demanding and involves working in high-pressure environments, but with proper training and qualifications, it is achievable for dedicated candidates.
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What are popular job titles related to Aircraft Firefighter jobs?

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Infographic showing various Aircraft Firefighter job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

FIREFIGHTER

Syracuse, NY • On-site

$40K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 5 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.
This National Guard position is for a FIREFIGHTER, Position Description NumberT6315000 and is part of the 174TH ATKW, National Guard.
This vacancy does not meet the criteria for appointment of annuitants.Qualifications:SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
GS-0081-05:

Experience that demonstrated the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSA's) to perform successfully the duties of the position. Such duties may include (1) controlling or extinguishing fires as a member of an organized military, industrial, volunteer, or governmental fire department or brigade; (2) rescue operations; (3) detection, reduction, or elimination of potential fire hazards; (4) operation of fire communications equipment; (5) controlling hazardous materials incidents; (6) developing, implementing, or providing training in fire protection and prevention; (7) firefighting and fire prevention theory and techniques; (8) fixed and mobile firefighting equipment operation; (9) planning, directing, or carrying out fire protection and prevention programs and operations and/or (10) performing emergency medical services.
GS-0081-06:
Must have at least 12 months experience, education or training in one or more of the following areas: (1) Controlling or extinguishing fires as a member of an organized military, industrial, volunteer, or governmental fire department or brigade. (2) Rescue operations. (3) Detection, reduction, or elimination of potential fire hazards. (4) Operation of fire communications equipment. (5) Controlling hazardous materials incidents. (6) Developing, implementing, or providing training in fire protection and prevention (7) Firefighting and fire prevention theory and techniques; (8) Fixed and mobile firefighting equipment operation. (9) Planning, directing, or carrying out fire protection and prevention programs and operations and/or (10) Performing emergency medical services. Must have 12 months experience driving and operating firefighting vehicles, such as pumpers, aerial ladder trucks, and Airport Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) vehicles. Experience leading a crew in the operation of pumps, foam generators, extended waterways, ground sweep nozzles, and other similar equipment. Experience performing and directing assigned crew in the performance of crash/rescue and firefighting duties at airfields handling large or complex aircraft (e.g., fighters, bombers, cargo, passenger).

Applicants who meet one of the DoD Priority Placement Program (PPP) categories below are eligible to apply with this preference. (See Required Documents section)

  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technician Eligible
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD MR and NG Preference Eligible Tech Receiving Disability Retirement
  • Priority Placement Program, DoD Retained Grade Employees
  • Priority Placement Program, Military Spouse Preference (MSP)
Education:If applying for the GS-05, Employee is required to be certified or obtain the certifications within 6 months of appointment by the DoD Firefighter Certification System as Airport Firefighter (includes Firefighter I, II), Hazmat Operations (includes Hazmat Awareness), Apparatus Driver Operator- Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, Apparatus Driver Operator- Pumper.
If applying for the GS-06, GS 06 APPLICANTS MUST provide proof of DoD Firefighter Certification System as Airport Firefighter (includes Firefighter I, II), Hazmat Operations (includes Hazmat Awareness), Apparatus Driver Operator- Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting, Apparatus Driver Operator- Pumper, Apparatus Driver Operator- Aerial*, Apparatus Driver Operator- Mobile Water Supply (MWS)*.
*Note: Required if Aerial and/or MWS is assigned.
You must provide Official Transcripts as documentation to support your educational claims. To receive credit for Education, you must provide documentation of proof that you meet the Education requirements for this position.Employment Type: OTHER