Organization: Department of the Air Force – Air National Guard Units
Location: Peoria, IL
Duration: Permanent
Application Deadline: January 6, 2027 (Initial cutoff: January 21, 2026)
Schedule: Full-time, 24-hour shift schedule
Salary: $45,409 – $59,031 per year (GS-6)
Security Clearance: Secret
Telework: Not eligible
Relocation: May be reimbursed in accordance with agency policy
About the Organization
The Air National Guard serves as a vital component of the Department of the Air Force, supporting both state and federal missions. It provides rapid response in emergencies, supports national defense initiatives, and ensures community safety through highly trained personnel. This position is part of the IL 182 AW, National Guard.
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Position Overview
The Firefighter (Crew Chief-Driver Operator) is a highly skilled firefighter responsible for driving and operating complex firefighting vehicles, performing structural and airfield firefighting, conducting rescue operations, and assisting with hazard prevention. This Title 5 excepted service position emphasizes operational readiness, emergency response, and adherence to safety protocols.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
1. Firefighting and Rescue Operations
- Drive and position firefighting vehicles at incident sites, taking into account wind, water sources, hazards, and aircraft armament.
- Execute structural and airfield firefighting, including operations involving significant or complex aircraft carrying fuel, weapons, or hazardous cargo.
- Perform rescue operations, administer first aid, and stabilize patients for transport.
- Conduct standby duties during aircraft refueling, maintenance, or other high-risk operations.
2. Equipment Operation and Maintenance
- Operate hoses, ladders, and hydrants to manage structural fires.
- Maintain and test firefighting equipment to ensure operational readiness.
- Perform inspections, functional tests, and preventive maintenance on vehicles and station facilities.
3. Safety and Compliance
- Adhere to federal, state, and local fire protection, safety, and environmental codes.
- Utilize safety equipment appropriately and ensure it fits correctly for team members.
- Participate in pre-fire planning, hazard mapping, and the identification of critical locations within facilities.
4. Training and Reporting
- Engage in practice drills and professional development to maintain crew proficiency.
- Prepare detailed reports on fire runs, equipment inspections, and training activities.
- Assist in organizational change and operational improvements within the fire department.
Candidate Background
Qualifications and Experience
- Must have at least 12 months of specialized experience in firefighting, rescue operations, hazard management, or emergency medical services.
- Experience may include military, industrial, volunteer, or governmental fire department work.
- Applicants must hold, or be eligible for, DoD Firefighter certifications: Firefighter I & II, Hazmat Awareness, Airport Firefighter, and applicable Apparatus Driver Operator certifications.
Requirements and Conditions
- Must be a U.S. citizen, national, or owe allegiance to the U.S.
- The maximum entry age is 37; exceptions apply for prior covered service.
- Mandatory participation in physical fitness testing and adherence to medical standards.
- Must possess a valid state driver’s license and be able to operate emergency vehicles.
- May be required to work in the Fire Alarm and Communications Center, on HAZMAT teams, or operate aircraft arresting equipment.
- Position is designated as Essential Personnel and may require emergency duty.
Education
- Qualification relies solely on experience; education cannot substitute for required experience.
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Application Process
Interested candidates must submit a complete application package via the Air National Guard careers page. The package must include:
- Resume detailing relevant experience with dates, positions, and duties performed.
- DoD Firefighter Certification documentation.
- Additional supporting documents (if applicable), such as: DD-214, SF-50, or official transcripts.
- Veterans’ Preference documentation (if claiming).
Incomplete submissions may result in ineligibility or impact the overall rating. Applicants should carefully follow the instructions to ensure their qualifications are accurately considered.
Additional Information
- This position requires occasional travel and may involve relocation.
- Drug testing may be required in accordance with DoD policies.
- Employees will be covered under special retirement provisions for federal firefighters.
- Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.
- Candidates must be committed to upholding the rule of law and supporting the principles of the United States Constitution.
