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Aircraft Rescue Firefighter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Marine Corps

FIREFIGHTER

Barstow, CA · On-site +1

$42K - $61K/yr

... rescue operations in fires and fire related emergencies involving structures, aircraft, motor ... Firefighter I Firefighter II Airport Firefighter Hazardous Materials Awareness Hazardous Materials ...

U.S. Navy

AVIATION BOATSWAINS MATE, AIRCRAFT FUELS

Stockton, CA · On-site

$16.75 - $20.50/hr

A Navy aircraft carrier can hold over a million gallons of fuel, or the approximate equivalent of 2 ... Training and directing firefighting crews, fire rescue teams and damage control parties assigned to ...

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Aircraft Rescue Firefighter information

See California salary details

$8

$18

$27

How much do aircraft rescue firefighter jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for aircraft rescue firefighter in California is $18.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $21.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aircraft rescue firefighter?

Aircraft Rescue Firefighters are specialized emergency responders trained to handle aircraft emergencies, such as crashes, fires, and fuel spills, primarily at airports. Their main duties include rescuing passengers and crew, extinguishing fires, and preventing further hazards by containing dangerous materials. They also conduct regular inspections, participate in emergency drills, and maintain firefighting equipment specific to aviation needs. Their training covers both firefighting and medical response, making them crucial for airport safety and rapid incident response.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aircraft rescue firefighter?

To thrive as an Aircraft Rescue Firefighter, you need specialized training in firefighting, emergency medical response, and hazardous material handling, usually supported by relevant certifications such as Firefighter I/II and ARFF certification. Familiarity with firefighting apparatus, rescue tools, and radio communication systems is essential for effective emergency response. Strong teamwork, quick decision-making, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this high-stakes environment. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure rapid, coordinated, and effective responses to aircraft emergencies, protecting both lives and property.

What are the most common challenges faced by aircraft rescue firefighters during emergency response situations?

Aircraft Rescue Firefighters often encounter intense pressure when responding to emergencies, as situations can escalate rapidly due to the presence of jet fuel and the potential for mass casualty events. One of the main challenges is coordinating with various airport personnel and emergency agencies to ensure a swift and efficient response. Additionally, navigating complex airport layouts and adapting to changing conditions, such as weather or hazardous materials, requires quick thinking and strong teamwork. Continuous training and readiness are essential to meet these demands and ensure passenger and crew safety.

What is the difference between Aircraft Rescue Firefighter vs Airport Firefighter?

AspectAircraft Rescue FirefighterAirport Firefighter
CertificationsFirefighter I & II, Aircraft Rescue & Firefighting (ARFF) certificationFirefighter I & II, ARFF certification
Work EnvironmentAirports, aircraft rescue zones, aircraft emergenciesAirports, terminal areas, ground emergencies
Employer & IndustryAirlines, airports, aviation industryAirports, transportation sector

Both Aircraft Rescue Firefighters and Airport Firefighters are trained to handle airport emergencies, including aircraft fires and rescue operations. The main difference lies in their specific focus: Aircraft Rescue Firefighters specialize in aircraft-related incidents, requiring specialized ARFF training, while Airport Firefighters handle broader airport emergencies. Both roles require similar certifications and work in airport environments, but Aircraft Rescue Firefighters focus more on aircraft-specific rescue and firefighting techniques.

What are popular job titles related to Aircraft Rescue Firefighter jobs in California?

For Aircraft Rescue Firefighter jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Aircraft Rescue Firefighter jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Aircraft Rescue Firefighter jobs in California are:

Aircraft Rescue Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aircraft Rescue Firefighter job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,474 per year, or $19 per hour.

AVIATION BOATSWAINS MATE, AIRCRAFT HANDLING

U.S. Navy

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 380 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

Modern aircraft carriers are capable of launching aircraft every 20 seconds. That means the flight deck can get pretty busy, so solid management and communication are essential to preventing chaos. As an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate – Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park, and secure them to the deck. Wherever they go, you’ll be the guide.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Aviation Boatswain’s Mate – Aircraft Handling (ABH) Sailors supervise the movement of Naval aircraft and perform rescue duties when necessary. In this role, specific responsibilities may include:

  • Assisting with the launch and recovery of aircraft
  • Spotting and securing aircraft and equipment
  • Performing crash rescue and crash removal duties in connection with aircraft launch and recovery
  • Firefighting and damage control duties
  • Operating and maintaining ground-handling equipment used for moving and hoisting aircraft

WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Most of the work in this rating is performed outdoors on the flight decks of amphibious and aircraft carriers, in all climates and conditions, including hazardous environments. The work is fast-paced and ABHs typically work closely with others in aviation ratings. You will not spend your entire career at sea; you may also work with an aircraft squadron during a shore duty rotation.

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

  • U.S. citizen or equivalent
  • High school graduate or equivalent
  • 17 years of age or older

PAY AND BENEFITS

From the day you start, you’ll receive:

  • Competitive salary
  • Potential to earn a bonus upon enlistment
  • Free health insurance
  • Free housing
  • A retirement plan
  • Paid training

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

  • Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance
  • Post-9/11 GI Bill, up to 100% tuition
  • Professional credentials and certifications
  • College credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education

PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

  • Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Aviation Boatswain’s Mates in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.
  • For annual training, you may serve anywhere in the world, including locations in the U.S., at bases overseas, or in areas where humanitarian needs are great.

What United States Navy employees say

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About US Navy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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