Serving on the Frontlines: Firefighter (Paramedic) at Kirtland AFB
Are you a dedicated emergency medical professional and skilled firefighter looking to take your career to the federal level? The Department of the Air Force is currently hiring a Firefighter (Paramedic) at Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico. This is more than just a job; it is a mission-critical role essential to the safety of our nation's airpower, infrastructure, and the personnel who serve our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Firefighter (Paramedic), your duties will be diverse and challenging. You will:
- Provide advanced life support (ALS) to individuals in need.
- Perform structural firefighting for diverse facilities, including large, multistoried buildings and industrial sites.
- Maintain fire protection equipment and station facilities to ensure constant operational readiness.
- Participate in HAZMAT response teams as required.
- Adhere to rigorous safety and environmental protocols.
Requirements
This position requires a high level of qualification. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Certifications: Current NREMT-Paramedic and specific fire certifications (Firefighter II, Officer I, Instructor I, Inspector I, and HAZMAT).
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-08 level.
- Age: Under 37 years of age (exceptions apply for veterans and prior service).
- Documentation: A concise, two-page resume detailing specific hours and dates of service.
Quick Qualification Comparison
| Requirement | Status |
|---|---|
| U.S. Citizenship | Required |
| Paramedic Certification | Mandatory |
| Secret Security Clearance | Required |
| Age Limit | 37 (with exceptions) |
Salary Overview
The position is graded at the GS-09 level, offering a salary range of $62,392 to $81,114 per year. This compensation reflects the high level of skill and the mission-critical nature of the work performed.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides robust benefits, including:
- Retirement: Special coverage for federal firefighters under FERS/CSRS.
- Insurance: Access to premium health and life insurance plans.
- Stability: Paid leave and federal holidays.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your application package is complete. Recruiters cannot guess your experience. Clearly state your weekly hours and dates for every relevant role. Ensure your resume is formatted to be two pages or less to avoid automatic disqualification.
If you are ready to serve those who defend our nation, the Firefighter (Paramedic) position at Kirtland AFB is an excellent path. Prepare your documentation, verify your certifications, and submit your application to join this elite team.
Why This Firefighter (Paramedic) Job Matters
Join the elite emergency response team at Kirtland Air Force Base as a Firefighter Paramedic and play a critical role in national defense.
Firefighter (Paramedic) Job Overview
The Department of the Air Force is seeking a dedicated Firefighter (Paramedic) to join the Air Force Global Strike Command at Kirtland AFB. This mission-essential position involves structural firefighting, emergency rescue, and the delivery of advanced life support (ALS) protocols. As a member of this team, you will ensure the safety of base personnel, property, and environmental assets while maintaining high readiness for contingency operations. This role is a vital component of the base's emergency response infrastructure.
Requirements for Firefighter (Paramedic)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must maintain current state or national Paramedic certification.
- Must possess specific firefighter certifications, including Firefighter II, Fire Officer I, Fire Instructor I, Fire Inspector I, and HAZMAT Awareness/Operations.
- Must meet specialized experience requirements: one year at the GS-08 level (or equivalent).
- Must pass a drug screening.
- Must hold or be able to obtain a Secret security clearance.
- Applicants must not have reached their 37th birthday by the date of appointment (exceptions apply for certain veterans and previous federal firefighters).
- Must provide a resume not exceeding two pages, including specific hours worked per week and dates of employment.
Preferred Qualifications for Firefighter (Paramedic)
- Experience in structural firefighting for multistoried or industrial facilities.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain and operate specialized fire protection equipment.
- Strong oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to manage complex hazardous materials incidents.
- Proven history of providing effective fire protection and prevention training.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with step increases.
- ✓Special retirement provisions for federal firefighters under FERS/CSRS.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
💡 How to Apply Firefighter (Paramedic) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Firefighter (Paramedic) Job
- Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
- Review the full vacancy announcement requirements carefully.
- Prepare a resume that is exactly two pages or fewer, detailing your relevant fire and medical experience.
- Collect necessary supporting documents, including certifications and SF-50s if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Complete the online application questionnaire through the provided portal.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific: Use dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every job entry; recruiters will not make assumptions.
- Keep it brief: Resumes exceeding the two-page limit will be automatically disqualified.
- Upload everything: Ensure your firefighter and medical certifications are attached as PDFs.
- Check your tech: If you are already in the DoD Fire Certification system, include your Student ID.
- Verify your status: If you are a veteran or current federal employee, ensure your SF-50s and DD-214s are correctly uploaded.
Frequently Asked Questions
What certifications are absolutely required for this role?
You must hold Firefighter II, Fire Officer I, Fire Instructor I, Fire Inspector I, HAZMAT Awareness, HAZMAT Operations, and NREMT-Paramedic certifications.
Is this a remote or telework-eligible position?
No, this is a mission-essential position located on-site at Kirtland AFB that requires physical presence to perform emergency response duties.
What is the maximum entry age for this firefighter position?
Generally, you must be under 37 years of age at the time of appointment, though there are specific waivers available for veterans and those with prior federal fire service.
What if I have prior federal fire service?
*A: You may be exempt from the maximum entry age requirement.*
Can I use my volunteer firefighting experience?
*A: Yes, qualified volunteer experience is counted towards your specialized experience requirements.*
Job from Air Force Global Strike Command
The Air Force Global Strike Command is responsible for the air component of the nation's strategic nuclear deterrent. Employees here are driven by core values: integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all we do. Working as a civilian firefighter for the Air Force offers a unique opportunity to operate in a high-stakes, disciplined environment that values professional development and technical mastery.