Become a Firefighter at Hanscom Air Force Base
Are you a certified firefighter looking to take your career to the next level? The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center at Hanscom Air Force Base is currently hiring a Firefighter (Hazardous Materials Technician) to join their specialized emergency response team. This is a rare opportunity to serve those who protect our nation while working in a high-stakes, rewarding environment.
About the Air Force Materiel Command
The Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) is responsible for the research, development, and support of Air Force technology. At Hanscom AFB, the fire protection teams are tasked with ensuring the safety of personnel, critical infrastructure, and sophisticated technology. You will be joining an organization that prioritizes integrity, service, and excellence.
Job Responsibilities
As a Firefighter (Hazmat Technician), your duties will go beyond standard fire suppression. Key responsibilities include:
- Hazard Assessment: Analyzing complex sites to identify risks before, during, and after incidents.
- Structural Firefighting: Protecting a variety of facilities, ranging from high-rise buildings to industrial storage sites.
- Emergency Rescue: Performing life-saving rescue operations and providing initial medical care to trauma victims.
- Hazmat Mitigation: Managing the containment and neutralization of hazardous material leaks.
Skills Comparison Table
| Skill Category | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Fire Suppression | Structural firefighting & hydraulic operations |
| Hazmat | Spill mitigation & chemical agent identification |
| Medical | Emergency responder duties & patient transport |
| Maintenance | Station upkeep & equipment calibration |
Requirements for Success
Candidates must hold specific certifications, including DOD, IFSAC, or Pro Board accreditation for Firefighter I and II. Additionally, you must demonstrate a deep knowledge of hydraulic systems, building construction, and safety regulations. You must also pass a pre-employment medical evaluation given the physical nature of the job.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $57,150 to $74,297. Beyond the pay, you will enjoy the stability of federal employment, including special rigorous retirement provisions specifically designed for federal firefighters under FERS or CSRS, along with comprehensive health benefits.
If you have the certifications, the physical stamina, and the desire to serve, this position offers a pathway to a meaningful career. Apply before the September 2026 deadline to ensure your materials are considered.
Why This Firefighter (Hazardous Materials Technician) Direct Hire Authority Job Matters
Join the elite ranks of the Air Force fire protection team and play a critical role in safeguarding our nation's infrastructure at Hanscom Air Force Base.
Firefighter (Hazardous Materials Technician) Direct Hire Authority Job Overview
The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center is seeking a highly skilled and dedicated Firefighter (Hazardous Materials Technician) to join our team at Hanscom AFB, Massachusetts. This is an essential role for individuals trained in structural firefighting, rescue operations, and complex hazardous material incident response. You will work within a specialized team responsible for maintaining high safety standards, protecting personnel and property, and ensuring rapid, effective responses to emergency situations. This position falls under the Air Force Materiel Command, offering a unique opportunity to serve in a mission-critical environment that values technical excellence and professional readiness.
Requirements for Firefighter (Hazardous Materials Technician) Direct Hire Authority
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must have one year of specialized experience at the GS-06 level (or equivalent).
- Must hold Department of Defense (DOD) Firefighter Certification System, IFSAC, or Pro Board certifications for Firefighter I & II, HazMat Awareness, Operations, and Technician.
- National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) certification is required; EMT is preferred.
- Must meet the maximum entry age requirement of 37 (exceptions apply for veterans and current federal firefighters).
- Must pass a mandatory pre-employment physical examination.
- Must be able to perform strenuous physical activities, including climbing ladders and lifting heavy equipment.
- Must be able to pass a drug test.
Preferred Qualifications for Firefighter (Hazardous Materials Technician) Direct Hire Authority
- Experience in complex hydraulic operations for firefighting vehicles.
- Proficiency in emergency communications equipment and protocols.
- Background in structural building design and safety regulation enforcement.
- Strong interpersonal skills for team collaboration and incident command support.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) rigorous firefighter retirement provisions
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Paid vacation and sick leave
- ✓Access to federal training and professional development programs
- ✓Direct deposit payroll
💡 How to Apply Firefighter (Hazardous Materials Technician) Direct Hire Authority Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Firefighter (Hazardous Materials Technician) Direct Hire Authority Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Review the full vacancy details and prepare a two-page resume highlighting relevant experience.
- Complete the mandatory online application questionnaire.
- Attach all required documents, including your most recent SF-50 (if applicable) and certification records.
- Submit your application package before the deadline of September 21, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Limit your resume to exactly two pages; additional pages will not be reviewed.
- Clearly state the number of hours worked per week and specific dates for all previous jobs.
- Ensure your resume explicitly mentions your certification credentials to avoid disqualification.
- Verify that your uploaded documents have cleared the virus scan before the closing time.
- Use the online status tracker in USAJOBS to monitor the progress of your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age limit for this firefighter position?
The maximum entry age is 37. However, this restriction is waived for qualified veterans and those with prior service in federal civilian firefighter positions.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. Resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration, so please keep your documentation concise.
Is a medical exam required?
Yes, this position requires a successful pre-employment physical examination to ensure you can perform the strenuous physical duties required of the role.