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Arff Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Arff information

See Virginia salary details

$20.3K

$54.1K

$100.1K

How much do arff jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for arff in Virginia is $54,117.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $71,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an ARFF?

An ARFF (Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting) job involves responding to airport emergencies, including aircraft fires, medical incidents, and hazardous material situations. ARFF personnel are specially trained firefighters who work at airports to ensure passenger and crew safety. Their duties include operating firefighting vehicles, performing rescue operations, and conducting fire prevention inspections. They must be prepared to handle high-risk situations quickly and efficiently. This role requires specialized training, physical fitness, and knowledge of aviation-related firefighting techniques.

What does an ARFF do?

A typical day for an ARFF specialist involves inspecting and maintaining firefighting equipment and vehicles, participating in regular training drills, and monitoring airport operations for potential safety hazards. While standby and readiness are key components, ARFF personnel may also conduct fire prevention inspections around airport facilities and provide emergency medical response as needed. Team collaboration is constant, often with airport operations, air traffic control, and local law enforcement. The dynamic environment demands alertness and the ability to adapt quickly to a variety of emergency scenarios. This blend of preventative work and rapid response makes the role both challenging and rewarding for those dedicated to aviation safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the ARFF position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) specialist, you need comprehensive knowledge of firefighting techniques, emergency medical services, and airport safety protocols, generally supported by Firefighter I/II certification and sometimes EMT licensure. Proficiency with specialized rescue equipment, airport communication systems, and hazardous material handling is essential. Strong teamwork, quick decision-making, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this high-pressure environment. These skills and qualifications are vital because ARFF specialists must ensure rapid, coordinated responses to emergencies to protect lives and property in an aviation setting.

What are popular job titles related to Arff jobs in Virginia?

For Arff jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Arff job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,117 per year, or $26 per hour.

Police Officer - Currently VA DCJS Certified

Charlottesville Albemarle Airport

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$62K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport Authority is accepting applications for full-time Public Safety Officers. Applicants must be a currently Virginia DCJS CERTIFIED LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER.
This position is also an aircraft rescue firefighter (ARFF). Fire and rescue training is provided. Experience in fire/rescue is a plus but not required.
The final candidate will be required to undergo health/drug screening, a psychological exam and a comprehensive background investigation. Schedules include weekdays, weekends, overnight shifts and holidays.
Salary range: $62,595 - $82,592. Salary is commensurate with certifications and experience.
Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport is proud to offer excellent benefit options to our eligible employees. These include Anthem Healthcare insurance plans which provide health, vision, and dental coverage. For the employee, coverage is paid 100% by the Authority. Retirement and life insurance through the Virginia Retirement System (VRS). Two weeks of paid vacation, thirteen paid holidays, sick leave, and an education assistance program. CHO invests in our employees by providing benefits that are important and valuable.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The Charlottesville Albemarle Airport Authority is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, marital status, national origin, citizenship status, disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by statute. Equal opportunity extends to all aspects of the employment relationship including hiring, transfers, promotions, training, terminations, working conditions, compensation, benefits and other terms and conditions of employment. The Authority complies with federal, state and local equal employment opportunity laws and strives to keep the workplace free from all forms of unlawful discrimination