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Aviation Firefighting Ground Crew Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Aviation Firefighting Ground Crew information

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How much do aviation firefighting ground crew jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for aviation firefighting ground crew in the United States is $21.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aviation firefighting ground crew?

Aviation Firefighting Ground Crew are specialized firefighters trained to respond to emergencies at airports and airfields. Their primary responsibilities include extinguishing aircraft fires, rescuing passengers and crew, and managing hazardous materials related to aviation incidents. They operate specialized vehicles and equipment designed for rapid response on runways and tarmacs. In addition to emergency response, they also conduct drills, inspections, and maintenance of firefighting equipment to ensure readiness. Their training is rigorous and tailored specifically to the unique dangers associated with aircraft and airport environments.

What are the typical challenges faced by aviation firefighting ground crew, and how can new team members prepare for them?

Aviation Firefighting Ground Crew often face high-pressure situations, such as responding rapidly to aircraft emergencies and working under unpredictable weather conditions. New team members may also find the physical demands and need for excellent coordination with other responders to be challenging at first. To prepare, it's helpful to maintain strong physical fitness, become familiar with airport layouts, and actively participate in regular training drills. Developing clear communication skills and building rapport with colleagues will also support effective teamwork in critical incidents.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aviation firefighting ground crew member, and why are they important?

Aviation Firefighting Ground Crew members need a solid understanding of fire suppression techniques, emergency response protocols, and safety regulations, often supported by relevant fire service certifications and physical fitness. Familiarity with specialized firefighting equipment, airport rescue vehicles, and communications systems is crucial for effective performance. Strong teamwork, quick decision-making, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills. These competencies ensure rapid, coordinated responses to aviation emergencies, safeguarding lives and airport assets.

What are popular job titles related to Aviation Firefighting Ground Crew jobs?

For Aviation Firefighting Ground Crew jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Aviation Firefighting Ground Crew job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $45,575 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Wildland Firefighter (Air Tactical Group Supervisor ATGS)

South Lake Tahoe, CA • On-site

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

$67K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


USDA Forest Service rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

These positions will be located at a USDA Forest Service Unit.
The incumbent serves as an Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS) for an Air Attack platform covering most interagency lands in and adjacent to the National Forest.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION for Regional contacts.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements.
For the GW-08: You must have one year specialized experience at least equivalent to the GW-07 in the Federal service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Assisted with the direction of air tactical operations for wildland fires suppression by evaluating aircraft needs to perform tactical missions, establishing target identification and/or navigation requirements; Assisted with the inspection of aviation activities, notifying ground crew of tactics, and/or ordering additional air resources as needed; Participated in aviation activities to support contract management, aviation training, and/or safety programs.
For the GW-09: You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-08 in the Federal service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Assisted with the direction of air tactical operations for wildland fires suppression by providing aerial supervision and/or establishing priorities for initial and extended attacks; Evaluated aircraft needs to perform tactical missions, establishing target identification and navigation requirements; Performed contract management, aviation training, and safety program support activities for an aviation program.
Selective Placement Factors:
Successful completion of the NWCG Core Requirement of Division/Group Supervisor (DIVS) OR Incident Commander Type 3 (ICT3).
Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) and Forest Service - Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) qualifications must be met by the time of selection. Most recent IQCS master record and/or signed Agency Certified task book must be attached to your application. If you are selected, you may be required to submit an updated IQCS master record or signed Agency Certified task book as proof of attainment of IFPM requirements prior to a final verbal offer.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a secondary position covered under the special retirement provisions of 5 USC 8336(c) for the Civil Service Retirement System and of 5 USC 8412(d) for the Federal Employees Retirement System.
To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.Education:There is no substitution of education for specialized experience.Employment Type: OTHER

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