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Tank Crew Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We invite applicants for A&P Mechanic - MD87 Tanker Crew Chief job openings located in Madras, Oregon! We offer a very competitive wage and excellent benefits package! Annual compensation ranges from ...

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Tank Crew information

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$14

$19

$33

How much do tank crew jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for tank crew in the United States is $19.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tank Crew member, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tank Crew member, you need a solid understanding of armored vehicle operations, weapons systems, and military protocols, typically gained through military training and qualification courses. Familiarity with tactical communication systems, navigation equipment, and maintenance tools is essential. Strong teamwork, quick decision-making, and the ability to perform under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring mission effectiveness, crew safety, and successful coordination in high-stress combat environments.

What are some common challenges tank crew members face during training and actual operations?

Tank crew members often face challenges related to operating in confined spaces, maintaining constant communication under stressful conditions, and quickly mastering complex vehicle systems. Training involves rigorous physical and mental preparation, as well as learning to coordinate closely with fellow crew members to ensure safety and mission success. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing environments and troubleshooting mechanical issues under pressure are essential skills developed on the job.

What are tank crew members?

Tank crew members are military personnel who operate, maintain, and fight in armored tanks. Their responsibilities include driving the tank, aiming and firing weapons, and performing routine maintenance to keep the vehicle in working order. A typical tank crew consists of several roles, such as a commander, gunner, loader, and driver, each with specific duties. Tank crews work together to maneuver the tank in combat situations and ensure its effectiveness on the battlefield.

What is the difference between Tank Crew vs Armored Vehicle Operator?

AspectTank CrewArmored Vehicle Operator
CredentialsMilitary training, certifications in tank operationMilitary or civilian licenses, vehicle operation certifications
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, combat zones, training facilitiesMilitary bases, security sites, transportation hubs
Employer & IndustryMilitary, defense contractorsMilitary, private security, logistics companies

Tank Crew members are specialized in operating and maintaining tanks in military settings, often requiring combat training. Armored Vehicle Operators may work with various armored vehicles, including personnel carriers and transport vehicles, with a broader scope of vehicle types. While both roles involve vehicle operation in military contexts, Tank Crew positions focus specifically on tanks, whereas Armored Vehicle Operators handle a wider range of armored vehicles.

More about Tank Crew jobs
What cities are hiring for Tank Crew jobs? Cities with the most Tank Crew job openings:
What states have the most Tank Crew jobs? States with the most job openings for Tank Crew jobs include:
Infographic showing various Tank Crew job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% Full Time, and 66% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,434 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
A&P Mechanic - MD87 Tanker Crew Chief

A&P Mechanic - MD87 Tanker Crew Chief

Aero Air

Madras, OR โ€ข On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

We are Aero Air โ€“ A People Centered Aircraft Service Company. A premier, mission driven organization who employs high performing, dedicated professionals. Where our team members are committed to apply their talents to a purpose greater than the task at hand. We want to make a difference in the lives of people in our communities and on a national and global level. Whatever your career passion, when you choose to work at Aero Air, you'll be joining a team that is supportive, collaborative and everyone is treated like family.

Aero Air is the parent company of Erickson Aero Tanker (EAT). EAT operates year-round firefighting operations in support of our government contracts.

We invite applicants for A&P Mechanic - MD87 Tanker Crew Chief job openings located in Madras, Oregon!

We offer a very competitive wage and excellent benefits package! Annual compensation ranges from $90k-$120k, DOE (includes standard hourly rate plus scheduled assigned overtime). This position is assigned a 3 week on/1 week off (paid) schedule during Mandatory Assignment Periods. Our benefits include relocation reimbursement, paid holidays, paid time off, 401(k) plan with an automatic 3% employer provided safe harbor contribution upon hire, healthcare coverage including medical, dental, vision, employer funded health reimbursement arrangement, employee paid life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, employee assistance program, pet insurance, corporate discount program on things like travel, gym memberships and more!

Position Summary

The Aircraft and Powerplant (A&P) Mechanic โ€“ MD87 Tanker Crew Chief performs routine aircraft troubleshooting, inspections, repairs, and preventive maintenance while maintaining a constant focus on safety and quality for the Erickson Aero Tanker fleet of MD-87, US government, and foreign government contracted aircraft. The position ensures company operational goals and objectives are met, while guaranteeing all aircraft maintenance documentation is maintained within applicable federal regulations, company policies and manufacturer requirements.

Required Duties and Responsibilities - Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the required duties and responsibilities.

  • A&P Mechanics/Crew Chiefs are primarily assigned to the Erickson Aero Tanker fleet of government-contracted aircraft โ€“ US Forest Service, Mandatory Assignment Period (USFS-MAP) where dates can fluctuate from year to year based on allocations and fire conditions.
  • During non-Mandatory Assignment Periods Crew Chiefs are assigned to home base work in Madras, Oregon. Routine and non-routine tasks are performed to maintain fleet readiness.
  • Perform the required maintenance, troubleshooting and or repairs needed for aircraft anywhere in the United States in which the aircraft is located. To include locations which could include remote areas where modern conveniences may not always be available.
  • Coordinate and manage the adjustment, repair, or replacement of malfunctioning components or assemblies, including the assembly of components such as switches, electrical controls and junction boxes using hand tools or soldering irons.
  • Coordinate all 'AOG' activities, the troubleshooting of instruments, components, and assemblies, using circuit testers, voltmeters, or other test equipment.
  • Adhere to all FAA Regulations, the Aero Air Repair Station Manual, Operations Manual and all other Quality Manuals and or Regulations, ensuring that all documents are signed off completely, properly, and timely in accordance with standard operating procedures.
  • Coordinates all activities with Maintenance Control and management team and other crew chiefs as necessary. Update manager as to aircraft status. Responsible for tasks, orders parts, assures accurate documentation, inspects completed work, completes operation tests and preliminary post-work inspections, and completes work order forms.
  • Accountable for tracking and accurately reporting all time worked and expenses incurred on a weekly basis with no exception. Failure to comply with accurate tracking requirements may result in the technician's removal from the crew. Ability to occasionally pre-book travel for reimbursement.
  • Our contract with the USFS requires 2 days off in any 14-day window with a duty day of no more than 16 hours on during a 24-hour period. Crew members may relocate to different Tanker bases daily. Other government contracts may vary.
  • Must be willing and able to work outdoors for long periods of time, utilizing various types of equipment, stands, ladders, boom lifts, scissor lifts, tugs, forklifts, etc.
  • Scheduled maintenance is accomplished during non-flying hours, sunset to sunrise.
  • During flying hours Crew Chiefs can be required to help with fueling, retardant loading, cleaning windshields.
  • Maintain reliable, regular, and predictable attendance.
  • Successful completion and favorable results of pre-employment drug screen and criminal history background check.
  • Adhere to all Aero Air/Erickson Aero Tanker policies and standards of conduct.
  • In addition to the duties listed, A&P Mechanics will be required to perform all other duties as assigned.

Skills and Abilities:

  • Ability to use text messaging for maintenance reporting.
  • Required ability to follow verbal instruction.
  • Must be willing and able to work outdoors for long periods of time, utilizing various types of equipment, stands, ladders, boom lifts, scissor lifts, tugs, forklifts, etc.
  • Ability to interpret and apply technical data relating to position.
  • Reading comprehension required understanding of written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Ability to operate applicable equipment; ability to work without supervision required.
  • Ability to travel up to 65+% of the time.

Qualifications:

  • Minimum of 3 years' experience preferred.
  • Experience with MD-80 series aircraft desired but not required.
  • FAA A&P License in good standing required, or ability to qualify, test, and pass within a short period of time.
  • Additional background in sheet metal and systems a plus.
  • Ability to organize and plan work, adhering to deadlines; attention to detail.
  • Mathematical skills required.
  • Service-oriented and able to build productive professional relationships.
  • Experience with Microsoft suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.) is required.
  • Corridor and maintenance/parts manual access software is desired.
  • High School Diploma/GED and required certifications listed above.
  • Must maintain a valid U.S./state issued driver's license with clean driving record.
  • Valid U.S. Passport..

Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to lift to 15 pounds at times.
  • Must be able to lift and carry up to 80 pounds with assistance.
  • Requires the ability to read, hear, talk, stand, walk, bend, kneel, stoop, crouch, crawl, and climb all day.
  • Accurate hand/eye coordination.
  • Finger dexterity is required as well as hand strength, with the ability to grasp, lift, push and pull.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
  • Occasionally required to climb on a ladder.
  • Ability to wear and utilize personal protective equipment.

Under the Department of Transportation-Federal Aviation Administration (DOT-FAA), the above listed position is categorized as a safety sensitive role. DOT-FAA regulations require Aero Air to inform applicants of the five (5) drug categories tested for during the post-offer, pre-employment drug test and while employed if selected for a random drug test; they include marijuana, amphetamines, cocaine, opioids, and phencyclidine.

Aero Air is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination against any person for any reason. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, familial status, parental status, protected veteran status, among other things, or status as a qualified individual with a disability.

As an equal opportunity employer, Aero Air is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. If interested in applying with Aero Air and need special assistance or accommodation, please contact us at HR@aeroair.com


DISCLAIMER: This position requires having a valid U.S./state issued driver's license with clean driving record and successful results from pre-employment drug test and criminal background check.