Become a Firefighter at Lackland AFB: A Path of Service and Protection
Are you a skilled emergency professional looking to elevate your career? The Department of the Air Force is currently accepting applications for a Firefighter (Basic Life Support) position at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas. This role is perfect for those committed to public safety, operational excellence, and the protection of national assets.
Job Responsibilities
As a Firefighter (Basic Life Support), your day-to-day duties will be diverse and critical. You will serve as a member of a crew engaged in:
- Emergency Response: Providing rapid intervention for airfield and structural fires.
- Crash-Rescue Operations: Managing high-stakes scenarios involving aircraft and ground support.
- Medical Support: Delivering essential Basic Life Support (BLS) and non-invasive emergency medical procedures.
- Maintenance: Ensuring all firefighting equipment and station facilities remain in peak operating condition.
- Hazard Mitigation: Identifying and eliminating potential fire hazards across base facilities.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must demonstrate substantial specialized experience. Below is a comparison of key eligibility factors.
| Requirement | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | United States Citizen |
| Experience | At least 1 year at the GS-06 level (or equivalent) |
| Max Entry Age | 37 years (subject to waivers) |
| Certification | Airport FF, HAZMAT Ops, EMR/EMT status |
| Security Clearance | May be required (varies) |
Salary Overview
The position is classified as a GS-07 role, offering a competitive annual salary range of $51,201 to $66,563. This compensation reflects the critical nature of the work and the specialized expertise required to maintain safety in an industrial and aviation environment.
Benefits
Federal employment offers a comprehensive suite of benefits, including:
- Health & Insurance: Various health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- Retirement: Inclusion in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Work-Life Balance: Generous vacation, sick leave, and federal holiday schedules.
- Career Development: Continuous training and certification updates to stay at the top of your field.
Application Tips
Competition for federal firefighting positions is high. To increase your chances:
- Tailor Your Resume: Keep it to exactly two pages. Emphasize your specific experience in firefighting and hazard reduction.
- Document Everything: Upload your certifications and SF-50 forms. If they are not in your application packet, you will be disqualified.
- Detail Your Hours: Clearly state the number of hours worked per week for each listed role.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What if I am a veteran? A: Veterans are highly encouraged to apply. Please submit your DD-214 and any applicable disability documentation to receive priority consideration where applicable.
Q: Is telework an option? A: No, this position requires on-site presence at the fire station to maintain emergency response readiness.
Protecting the lives and infrastructure of Lackland AFB is a rewarding responsibility. If you meet the qualifications and possess the grit to perform under pressure, we encourage you to apply. Start your journey today and serve those who serve our country.
Why This Firefighter (Basic Life Support) Job Matters
Protect lives, property, and the mission at Lackland Air Force Base as a vital member of our elite firefighting team.
Firefighter (Basic Life Support) Job Overview
The Department of the Air Force is seeking a dedicated Firefighter (Basic Life Support) to join the Air Education and Training Command at Lackland AFB, Texas. This position involves active participation in emergency response, including airfield and structural firefighting, crash-rescue operations, and non-invasive emergency medical care. You will be instrumental in hazard mitigation, equipment operation, and maintaining a high state of operational readiness to ensure the safety of base personnel and assets.
Requirements for Firefighter (Basic Life Support)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must meet the specialized experience requirements at the GS-06 level or equivalent.
- Maximum entry age requirements apply; applicants must not have reached their 37th birthday unless qualifying for a waiver.
- Must maintain required certifications, including Airport Firefighter, HAZMAT Awareness/Operations, and various Apparatus Driver Operator credentials.
- Must possess and maintain a current Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) certification.
- Subject to a pre-employment drug test.
- Must successfully pass a background check if required.
Preferred Qualifications for Firefighter (Basic Life Support)
- Proven track record in managing structural and airfield fire hazards.
- Experience with complex hydraulic systems and fire suppression equipment.
- Demonstrated ability to perform in high-pressure rescue operations.
- Current National Registry EMT-B certification.
- Exceptional communication skills for both oral and written reporting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement savings plan (FERS/CSRS).
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Access to a range of federal employee work-life programs.
💡 How to Apply Firefighter (Basic Life Support) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Firefighter (Basic Life Support) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement and gather all required certifications.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary documentation, including SF-50s (for current/former federal employees), DD-214s (for veterans), and professional firefighting certifications.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of November 2, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; excess pages will result in immediate disqualification.
- Clearly define your time-in-grade experience by listing your current pay plan, series, and grade.
- Double-check that your certifications and EMR/EMT card are legible and uploaded correctly.
- Submit your application early to allow for system processing time and to ensure all components are captured.
- Use your resume to highlight relevant experience in fire protection and hazard mitigation as outlined in the KSA section.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a maximum age limit for this position?
Yes, under Title 5 U.S.C. 3307, the maximum entry age for primary firefighter positions is 37, unless you are a qualified veteran preference eligible or meet specific waiver conditions.
What specific certifications are required?
You must hold certifications in Airport Firefighter, HAZMAT (Awareness/Operations), and multiple Driver Operator categories (Pumper, Aerial, ARFF, Mobile Water Supply), along with an active EMR or EMT certification.
Job from Air Education And Training Command
The Air Education and Training Command (AETC) is responsible for the professional training and education of Air Force personnel. Fire protection units within this command are tasked with providing critical emergency support, ensuring that AETC installations remain safe for the thousands of service members, civilians, and trainees who work and reside there.