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$26

$38

How much do temporary air tanker base jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary air tanker base in the United States is $26.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.04 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Temporary Air Tanker Base Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temporary Air Tanker Base Manager, you need expertise in aviation operations, wildfire suppression logistics, and a solid understanding of FAA and interagency regulations, often backed by relevant certifications or training. Familiarity with dispatch software, fuel management systems, and safety protocols is essential. Strong leadership, effective communication, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure efficient and safe aerial firefighting operations, supporting the rapid response needed for wildfire emergencies.

What is the difference between Temporary Air Tanker Base vs Air Operations Specialist?

AspectTemporary Air Tanker BaseAir Operations Specialist
CertificationsFAA certifications, firefighting trainingFAA certifications, aviation safety training
Work EnvironmentAirports, firefighting zones, remote locationsAirports, control towers, command centers
Employer & IndustryFederal and state firefighting agencies, aviation companiesAirlines, firefighting agencies, aviation services

Temporary Air Tanker Bases are operational sites set up temporarily to support firefighting aircraft during wildfire seasons. Air Operations Specialists coordinate and manage flight activities, ensuring safety and efficiency. While both roles involve aviation and safety protocols, the Tanker Base focuses on logistical support for aircraft deployment, whereas the Specialist handles operational coordination and communication.

What are Temporary Air Tanker Bases?

Temporary Air Tanker Bases are mobile or short-term facilities set up to support aerial firefighting operations, specifically for the loading and dispatch of air tankers carrying fire retardant or water. These bases are established near active wildfire incidents to improve response times and logistical support. They are usually equipped with essential infrastructure such as loading pits, fuel supplies, communications equipment, and personnel to manage operations. Once the wildfire threat in the area subsides, the base is dismantled and equipment is moved to the next location as needed.

What are some common challenges faced by staff working at a Temporary Air Tanker Base during wildfire season?

Staff at Temporary Air Tanker Bases often face high-pressure situations, especially during peak wildfire seasons when rapid response times are critical. Managing logistics for aircraft, coordinating with ground crews, and ensuring the safe and efficient loading of fire retardant are daily tasks that require attention to detail and strong teamwork. The work environment can be physically demanding and fast-paced, with long hours, especially during major fire incidents. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as operations can change quickly based on fire activity and weather conditions.
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Temporary Air Tanker Base jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Air Tanker Base job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,518 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Deputy Chief Aviation Officer - Fixed Wing

Texas A&M Forest Service

College Station, TX

$8K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Texas A&M University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 143 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

192nd of 537 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Title

Deputy Chief Aviation Officer - Fixed Wing

Agency

Texas A&M Forest Service

Department

Aviation Department

Proposed Minimum Salary

$8,750.00 monthly

Job Location

College Station, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

This position will provide leadership to the agency's aviation program in operations. This position will ensure safety, accountability and excellence in all fire suppression, all-risk and training missions. The Deputy Chief will recruit, retain and develop employees as well as keep the Chief Aviation Officer informed on all things impacting air operations. This position will also maintain oversight and accountability of budget.

Responsibilities:

-Provide leadership and direction to assigned staff and resources. Ensure aircraft are properly maintained and ready for all missions. Work closely with Chief Aviation Officer and Division leadership on resource availability and positioning.

-Maintain oversight of all assigned operational budgets. Work closely with Chief Aviation Officer, Division leadership on budgetary needs, both current and future.

-Ensure appropriate training, exercising and development programs are implemented and followed by staff.

-Maintain appropriate equipment and staffing levels on aircraft.

-Ensure compliance with all agency policies and procedures.

-Other duties as assigned.

Benefits: Texas A&M University System strives to support the health and wellness needs of our diverse workforce. Texas A&M Forest Service offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance, retirement benefits, paid time off and health and lifestyle programs as well as educational incentives and tuition reimbursement opportunities.

***This is an emergency response position. Long hours may be required to work long hours outside of the normal work week. Travel will be required.

Education and Experience:
Required Education: Bachelors degree in Aviation, Fire Science, Emergency Management or related field of study or the equivalent combination of education or experience.

Preferred Education: Masters degree in Aviation, Fire Science, Emergency Management or related field of study
Required Experience: Minimum of ten (10) years experience in fire and emergency response with a recognized response entity.


Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Required Knowledge: Knowledge of fire suppression aircraft, operations, maintenance, policies and procedures. Knowledge of fire suppression strategies and tactics.

Required Abilities: Ability to lead others. Provide program oversight and manage budget. Multi-task and work cooperatively with others.


Registrations, Certifications, and Licenses:
Required: Valid Texas driver's license or ability to obtain one within 30 days employment. Air Tanker Base Manager (ATBM) or Single Engine Air Tanker Manager (SEMG)

Preferred: NWCG Air Support Group Supervisor (ASGS), NWCG Air Operations Branch Director (AOBD), Emergency Medical Technician - Basic or higher

Applicant Instructions:

Resume, cover letter and transcript (if applicable) are REQUIRED to be uploaded to application.References are required to be entered in the secondary questionnaire section of the application. Certifications are preferred to be uploaded to the application. Documents/certifications can be uploaded in the "My Experience" page in the "Resume/CV section. More than one document can be uploaded; just click the "Upload" button for each document. Documents can only be loaded at this time and cannot be uploaded once the application is submitted. If there are any issues uploading documents, please contact 979-458-6690. Please check your spam folder in case more information is sent in regards to this position.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution's verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution's procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.

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