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Aviation Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Coulson Aviation

S61-Pilot In Command

Portland, OR · On-site

S-61 Pilot in Command (PIC) About Coulson Aviation Coulson Aviation is a global leader in aerial firefighting, operating across the United States, Canada, Australia, and South America. Our diverse ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Alpine, TX

Aviation Operations & Support (Enlisted) Category / Component: Enlisted • Active Overview ... firefighting as required; training is documented through systems such as the Joint Services ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Bacliff, TX

Aviation Operations & Support (Enlisted) Category / Component: Enlisted • Active Overview ... firefighting as required; training is documented through systems such as the Joint Services ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Ahtanum, WA

Aviation Operations & Support (Enlisted) Category / Component: Enlisted • Active Overview ... firefighting as required; training is documented through systems such as the Joint Services ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Marion, NC

Aviation Operations & Support (Enlisted) Category / Component: Enlisted • Active Overview ... firefighting as required; training is documented through systems such as the Joint Services ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Liberty, TX

Aviation Operations & Support (Enlisted) Category / Component: Enlisted • Active Overview ... firefighting as required; training is documented through systems such as the Joint Services ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Clifton, CO

Aviation Operations & Support (Enlisted) Category / Component: Enlisted • Active Overview ... firefighting as required; training is documented through systems such as the Joint Services ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Toledo, IA

Aviation Operations & Support (Enlisted) Category / Component: Enlisted • Active Overview ... firefighting as required; training is documented through systems such as the Joint Services ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Murphys, CA

Aviation Operations & Support (Enlisted) Category / Component: Enlisted • Active Overview ... firefighting as required; training is documented through systems such as the Joint Services ...

US Navy

Aviation Operations & Support

Lebanon, VA

Aviation Operations & Support (Enlisted) Category / Component: Enlisted • Active Overview ... firefighting as required; training is documented through systems such as the Joint Services ...

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How much do aviation firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for aviation 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.

How to become an aviation firefighter?

To become an aviation firefighter, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training in aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) through a certified program. They must also obtain certifications such as the Firefighter I and II, and often need to pass physical fitness tests and background checks; experience with emergency response and familiarity with airport operations are also beneficial.

What is an aviation firefighter?

An aviation firefighter is a specialized emergency responder trained to handle fires and rescue operations at airports and around aircraft. They often work with firefighting equipment such as foam and extinguishers, and typically require certification in firefighting and emergency medical response. Their primary goal is to ensure safety during aircraft emergencies and accidents.

What are the common challenges an Aviation Firefighter might face on the job?

Aviation Firefighters often encounter unique challenges such as responding to aircraft incidents involving hazardous materials, fuel fires, and potentially large-scale emergencies. The role requires constant vigilance and the ability to quickly assess rapidly changing situations, sometimes in adverse weather or high-stress conditions. Teamwork is essential, as firefighters work closely with airport staff, emergency medical teams, and law enforcement to coordinate effective responses. Additionally, ongoing training and drills are necessary to stay up-to-date on evolving safety protocols, specialized equipment, and regulatory requirements in the aviation industry.

How much do plane firefighters make?

Aviation firefighters, also known as aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) personnel, typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certification levels. Salaries can increase with additional training, seniority, and working at larger or busier airports. The role requires specialized skills, including firefighting, rescue operations, and often certification from the FAA or equivalent authorities.

What is an Aviation Firefighter job?

An Aviation Firefighter is responsible for responding to aircraft emergencies, including fires, crashes, and hazardous material incidents at airports. They perform rescue operations, provide medical aid, and ensure compliance with aviation safety regulations. Their duties also include fire prevention inspections, equipment maintenance, and emergency response training. Aviation Firefighters must be physically fit, trained in firefighting techniques, and knowledgeable about aircraft structures and fuel hazards. Their role is critical in ensuring the safety of passengers, crew, and airport personnel.

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

To thrive as an Aviation Firefighter, you need a solid understanding of firefighting techniques, emergency medical response, hazardous materials handling, and aircraft-specific rescue applications, typically supported by relevant fire academy training and EMT certification. Proficiency with specialized equipment such as Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) vehicles, foam suppression systems, and communication tools is essential. Strong situational awareness, teamwork, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure rapid, effective responses to airport emergencies and to safeguard lives and property in high-risk environments.

What aviation firefighting careers are there?

Aviation firefighting careers include roles such as airport firefighter, aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) personnel, and aircraft crash rescue specialists. These positions involve responding to aircraft emergencies, operating specialized firefighting equipment, and working in airport environments often requiring certifications like the Airport Firefighter credential. Career paths can also lead to supervisory or training roles within aviation fire services.
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What cities are hiring for Aviation Firefighter jobs? Cities with the most Aviation Firefighter job openings:
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Aviation Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aviation Firefighter job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Large Airtanker Pilot - C-130 IA Captain

Coulson Aviation

Portland, OR • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Large Airtanker Pilot – C-130 Initial Attack

Coulson Aviation

When wildfires ignite, you’re among the first in the air.

Coulson Aviation is seeking exceptional C-130 Initial Attack Airtanker Captains to join our world-class aerial firefighting team. If you bring prior C-130 PIC experience or are USFS Initial Attack (IA) carded as an Airtanker Captain, this is your opportunity to fly one of the most powerful and capable aerial firefighting platforms in service today.

This is a mission-critical role supporting rapid initial attack wildfire suppression, complex fire environments, and large-scale coordinated aerial operations. If you thrive in high-tempo operations, precision low-level flying, and dynamic multi-aircraft environments, this is where your experience truly matters.

Why This Role Matters

Initial attack saves forests, communities, and lives.
As a C-130 Initial Attack Pilot, your decisions and execution in the first hours of a fire can change the outcome entirely. You’ll be entrusted with one of the most capable firefighting aircraft in the world, operating at the sharp end of wildfire response. Supporting ground firefighters is our passion, and we need you to help us help them—so together, we can protect our communities and our state and national forest lands, not only here at home, but internationally as well

The Mission

Conduct time-critical wildfire response missions delivering retardant with our specialized water/retardant dropping tanking systems in the most challenging terrain and congested airspace environments you’ll see as a professional aviator. You’ll work shoulder-to-shoulder with Air Attack, ground resources, and agency partners to slow fire growth when it matters most.

Key Responsibilities

  • Execute initial attack aerial firefighting missions in the C-130 Airtanker with precision, discipline, and professionalism
  • Operate at low level in mountainous and high-threat environments in accordance with approved SOPs and tactics
  • Coordinate closely with Air Attack to manage complex, congested fire traffic areas
  • Identify, assess, and mitigate operational hazards while actively supporting the Safety Management System (SMS)
  • Maintain aircraft and crew readiness for rapid deployment during peak fire activity
  • Complete flight logs, mission records, and required operational documentation
  • Contribute to the continuous improvement of wildfire tactics, SOPs, and operational procedures

Qualifications

Required

  • FAA ATP, or FAA Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument Rating appropriate to C-130 operations
  • 2,000+ hours total flight time
  • 1,000+ hours of multi-engine experience
  • 500 hours of IFR experience

Preferred

  • 4,000+ hours total flight time
  • Previous C-130, LAT, or VLAT experience
  • Initial Attack aerial firefighting experience
  • Low-level tactical flying in complex or mountainous terrain
  • Multi-crew, crew-resource-management–intensive cockpit experience

What Sets You Apart

  • Exceptional CRM, threat and error management, and sound aeronautical decision-making
  • Calm, decisive communicator under pressure
  • High situational awareness in rapidly evolving fire environments
  • Safety-driven, mission-focused, and ready for on-call deployment during peak fire seasons

Ready to be first over the fire?

Apply now and join the front line of aerial wildfire suppression with Coulson Aviation.