Become a Firefighter Crew Chief with the Air National Guard
Are you looking to take your firefighting career to the next level? The Air National Guard is hiring a Firefighter (Crew Chief-Driver Operator) in Peoria, Illinois. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve your community and the Department of the Air Force by providing top-tier emergency response and fire prevention services.
Job Responsibilities
As a Crew Chief and Driver Operator, your duties are varied and high-impact. Key responsibilities include:
- Emergency Response: Performing complex rescue and firefighting operations at airfields involving fueled or armed aircraft.
- Apparatus Management: Operating firefighting vehicles using strategic routes, considering factors like wind and water sources.
- Fire Prevention: Conducting physical pre-fire planning, identifying hazards, and checking fixed fire protection systems.
- Medical Support: Providing immediate first aid, CPR, and stabilization during transport.
- Maintenance: Ensuring all equipment, including hoses and hydrants, are inspected and functional.
Comparison of Requirements
| Requirement Type | Minimum Standard |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | Under 37 (with exceptions) |
| Certifications | Firefighter I, II, Airport Firefighter, Hazmat Awareness |
| Experience | 12 months relevant field experience |
| Security Clearance | Secret Clearance required |
Requirements
To qualify for the GS-06 level, you must demonstrate at least 12 months of specialized experience in an organized fire department. This includes work in controlling structural fires, rescue operations, and hazardous materials management. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, pass a mandatory drug screening, and hold the necessary DoD certifications.
Salary and Benefits
The annual salary for this position ranges from $45,409 to $59,031. As a Title 5 Excepted Service employee, you will be part of a robust federal workforce with access to established government benefits, professional development, and the unique pride that comes with military-affiliated public service.
Application Tips
When preparing your application, be descriptive. Your resume should clearly state your work history with dates (month and year) and hours per week. Do not copy the job description; HR officials want to read about your personal accomplishments and operational successes. Ensure your certifications are current and clearly highlighted.
If you are a motivated firefighter ready to transition into a federal, high-readiness environment, this role offers the perfect platform to grow. Apply today to begin your service with the Air National Guard.
Why This Firefighter (Crew Chief-Driver Operator) Title 5 Job Matters
Answer the call of duty and protect your community as a professional Firefighter Crew Chief with the Air National Guard.
Firefighter (Crew Chief-Driver Operator) Title 5 Job Overview
The Air National Guard is currently seeking dedicated individuals to fill the role of Firefighter (Crew Chief-Driver Operator) in Peoria, Illinois. This position plays a critical role in maintaining safety, responding to emergency structural and aircraft incidents, and managing fire prevention programs within a Department of the Air Force facility.
Requirements for Firefighter (Crew Chief-Driver Operator) Title 5
- Maximum entry age for DoD firefighters is 37 years old.
- Must possess at least 12 months of specialized experience in firefighting, rescue operations, or hazard reduction.
- Must hold at minimum Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Airport Firefighter, and Hazmat Awareness certifications.
- Must be able to obtain or possess certifications for Apparatus Driver Operator (Aircraft Rescue, Pumper, and Mobile Water Supply).
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must pass a drug test and possess a Secret security clearance.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service System.
Preferred Qualifications for Firefighter (Crew Chief-Driver Operator) Title 5
- Demonstrated experience in aircraft crash and rescue operations.
- Strong proficiency in emergency medical services and first aid stabilization.
- Proven background in planning and carrying out fire prevention programs and facility inspections.
- Experience in operating complex firefighting vehicles and apparatus.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Job security within the Department of the Air Force
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Eligibility for federal retirement and insurance programs (dependent on appointment status)
💡 How to Apply Firefighter (Crew Chief-Driver Operator) Title 5 Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Firefighter (Crew Chief-Driver Operator) Title 5 Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account profile.
- Prepare a detailed resume highlighting months/years of experience and specific duties.
- Gather necessary documentation, including DD-214, certifications, and SF-50 if applicable.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Avoid copying the job description verbatim; use your own words to describe your experiences.
- Ensure your resume includes specific dates (month and year) and average hours worked per week for every position.
- Double-check that you have uploaded all required DoD-level fire certifications.
- Verify your application status periodically by logging into your USAJOBS account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is education a substitute for experience for this role?
No. For this specific occupational series and grade, you must meet the qualification requirements through relevant work experience alone.
What happens if I don't have all the required certifications yet?
Applicants may be hired as an Indefinite appointment without all certifications; however, you must possess Firefighter I, II, Airport Firefighter, and Hazmat Awareness to be considered. You may be non-competitively converted to permanent status upon completion of all DoD certifications.
Is there a maximum age limit?
Yes. The maximum entry age for DoD firefighters is 37, with specific exceptions allowed for those with previous covered service.
Job from Air National Guard Units
The National Guard represents one of the oldest components of the United States Armed Forces. With a rich history of serving neighbors in times of emergency, the National Guard remains a pillar of collective defense and community safety. Working within the Air National Guard allows you to operate in a professional, high-stakes environment where precision and readiness are the highest priorities.