Aerial Firefighter Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of climate change and increasing natural disasters, the role of aerial firefighters has become more crucial than ever.

As wildfires rage on, the demand for skilled individuals who can combat, control, and prevent these fires from the skies grows.

But what does an aerial firefighter really do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of aerial firefighting,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable aerial firefighter job description template, designed for easy use on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Aerial Firefighter Duties and Responsibilities

Aerial Firefighters are specialized professionals who combat wildfires from the air.

They drop water or fire retardants from aircraft to suppress fires and also participate in search and rescue missions.

Their primary responsibilities include:

• Assessing fire conditions and determining the appropriate response, including the type of aircraft needed
• Flying various types of aircraft, such as helicopters and fixed-wing planes, to drop water or fire retardants on wildfires
• Communicating with ground crews and other aerial firefighters to coordinate firefighting efforts
• Performing regular maintenance checks on firefighting equipment and aircraft to ensure they are in working order
• Performing rescue operations, including lifting individuals from dangerous areas and delivering supplies to isolated locations
• Observing and reporting on fire behavior and progression
• Training and instructing new aerial firefighters
• Ensuring compliance with safety guidelines and procedures during all operations
• Maintaining a log of all missions and reports of maintenance activities

 

Aerial Firefighter Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a courageous and dedicated Aerial Firefighter to join our team.

The Aerial Firefighter will be responsible for combating wildfires from the air using specialized aircraft.

Aerial Firefighters are tasked with performing low-flying maneuvers to accurately drop water or fire retardant chemicals on to areas affected by wildfires.

This role requires excellent piloting skills, a high degree of physical fitness, and the ability to make rapid decisions under high-pressure circumstances.

 

Responsibilities

• Operate firefighting aircraft and effectively deploy water or fire retardant
• Perform regular maintenance checks on aircraft and firefighting equipment
• Communicate effectively with ground crews and other aerial support
• Adhere to safety procedures and protocols at all times
• Assess wildfires from above and strategize effective firefighting methods
• Participate in regular training exercises to remain updated on firefighting techniques
• Report on wildfire status and progress to superiors
• Perform aerial rescues when necessary

 

Qualifications

• Valid pilot’s license
• Previous experience in aerial firefighting or related role
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• High degree of physical fitness
• Ability to remain calm and make decisions under pressure
• Willingness to work in hazardous conditions and irregular hours
• Knowledge of basic aircraft maintenance
• Completion of a certified firefighting academy program is preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuous training and professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Aerial Firefighter
• Work Environment: This role involves high-risk work in outdoor, often extreme weather conditions. Aerial Firefighters may also be required to be on-call or work irregular hours during wildfire season.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Fire Chief or Fire Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Aerial Firefighter Do?

Aerial Firefighters, also known as Smokejumpers or Air Tanker Pilots, perform a critical role in combating wildfires and managing controlled burns.

They operate specially equipped aircraft, such as helicopters and fixed-wing planes, to drop water or fire retardants from the air onto burning areas to suppress the fire.

Their job involves working closely with ground-based firefighters and forestry professionals to strategize and execute effective fire suppression plans.

The pilots of aerial firefighting aircraft are responsible for navigating often challenging and risky flight conditions, including heavy smoke and strong winds, to deliver their payloads accurately.

Aerial firefighters may also be tasked with rescuing personnel from fire-affected areas or delivering supplies and equipment to ground crews in remote locations.

They also perform regular inspections and maintenance on their aircraft to ensure their safety and operational readiness.

In addition, they may also undertake surveillance tasks, helping to identify potential fire risks and providing vital information to ground-based teams about fire behavior and progression.

 

Aerial Firefighter Qualifications and Skills

Aerial Firefighters require a unique combination of technical skills, physical abilities and personal characteristics to effectively perform in this demanding role, such as:

• Outstanding piloting skills, with a specific focus on low-altitude navigation and precise maneuvering in challenging flight conditions.
• Extensive knowledge of firefighting techniques and tactics, including the use of water or fire retardant drops, to suppress wildfires from the air.
• Physical stamina and resilience to withstand the strenuous and high-stress nature of aerial firefighting operations.
• Exceptional decision-making and problem-solving abilities to quickly assess and respond to rapidly changing wildfire conditions.
• Excellent communication skills to maintain clear and effective coordination with ground firefighting teams and air traffic control.
• Ability to perform regular maintenance checks and carry out minor repairs on the aircraft, ensuring its readiness for emergency deployments.
• Strong understanding of weather patterns and topographical features to effectively plan and execute firefighting missions.
• High degree of situational awareness and safety consciousness to minimize risks during flight operations in hazardous environments.

 

Aerial Firefighter Experience Requirements

Candidates for the role of an Aerial Firefighter typically require a substantial amount of practical experience, often gained through serving as a firefighter on the ground.

This could be 3-5 years of extensive firefighting experience, or equivalent military service.

In addition to this, candidates usually need to have a private pilot certificate, and in some cases, a commercial pilot’s license.

Flight experience is of paramount importance, with a minimum of 500 to 1000 flight hours typically required.

This experience can be gained through various avenues such as flight school, military service, or other aviation roles.

Prior experience in forest or wildland firefighting can also be beneficial, as the role often involves combating wildfires in these environments.

Candidates with more than 10 years of experience in aviation and firefighting may be considered for senior or supervisory positions.

They may also have the opportunity to fly larger, more complex aircraft.

It is worth noting that all aerial firefighters must undergo specific training related to aerial firefighting tactics and safety, regardless of their previous experience.

 

Aerial Firefighter Education and Training Requirements

Aerial Firefighters typically must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

They also need to complete a rigorous training program specifically designed for aerial firefighting.

The program includes both ground and flight training, fire behavior and firefighting techniques, first aid and survival, and aircraft operations.

Some of these programs may lead to a certification.

Aerial Firefighters must also have a commercial pilot’s license from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

This requires a certain number of flight hours, passing written and flight exams, and meeting physical fitness and health requirements.

While not a necessity, a bachelor’s degree in fire science or a related field can be beneficial as it equips individuals with a deeper understanding of fire behavior, prevention, and control strategies.

Continuing education is critical for Aerial Firefighters as it allows them to stay updated with the latest firefighting techniques and safety protocols.

This can include regular recertification, attending workshops or seminars, or additional coursework.

Experience in structural firefighting can be beneficial, and some roles may require Aerial Firefighters to have experience working in a specific type of aircraft or terrain.

Medical training, such as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification, can also be advantageous in emergency situations.

 

Aerial Firefighter Salary Expectations

An Aerial Firefighter earns an average salary of $74,264 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can differ based on experience, qualifications, and the location of work.

The nature of this job also includes risk allowances and benefits, which are not included in the base salary.

 

Aerial Firefighter Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does an Aerial Firefighter need?

Most Aerial Firefighters need to have a pilot’s license, and specific experience in flying the type of aircraft used for firefighting is preferred.

This could be helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft.

They also need to be trained in firefighting procedures and safety regulations.

In addition, excellent physical fitness, teamwork, and decision-making skills are required.

 

What are the daily duties of an Aerial Firefighter?

On a typical day, an Aerial Firefighter may conduct maintenance checks on their aircraft, attend briefings on current fire situations, and fly missions to drop water or fire retardant on wildfires.

They may also need to perform rescues in areas inaccessible by land.

When not actively fighting fires, they engage in training exercises to maintain their skills.

 

What qualities make a good Aerial Firefighter?

A good Aerial Firefighter is calm under pressure and able to make quick, effective decisions in high-stress situations.

They should have excellent communication skills to coordinate with ground crews and other pilots.

Physical fitness is also important, as the job can be physically demanding and requires stamina.

Finally, they should have a strong commitment to safety and a deep understanding of fire behavior and firefighting tactics.

 

Is it difficult to become an Aerial Firefighter?

Becoming an Aerial Firefighter can be challenging due to the high physical and training requirements.

It requires obtaining a pilot’s license, undergoing rigorous physical conditioning, and learning complex firefighting procedures.

Aerial Firefighters also need to be able to handle high-stress situations and be prepared to work long hours, especially during wildfire season.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a glimpse into the world of an aerial firefighter.

Guess what?

It’s not just about extinguishing fires from above.

It’s about safeguarding our environment and protecting communities, one flight at a time.

With our concise aerial firefighter job description template and real-life examples, you’re all prepared to make a move.

But why stop there?

Soar higher with our job description generator. It’s your go-to resource for precision-crafted listings or enhancing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every flight you take is a part of a larger mission.

Let’s protect our world. Together.

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