Rescue Firefighter

We invite individuals who are enthusiastic about the aviation industry and dedicated to providing a world-class experience to apply. Join us and be part of a dynamic team that values collaboration, supports each other's development, and embraces diverse ideas and perspectives.

Serving as Michigan's second busiest airport and recognized as one of the best small airports in the country by USA Today, Gerald R. Ford International Airport stands as a testament to West Michigan's vibrant growth. The airport serves over four million passengers annually, with seven commercial airline partners offering nonstop flights to over 30 destinations. As a vital economic engine in the region, it supports more than 40,000 jobs and contributes over $7 billion to the economy each year.

Gerald R. Ford International Airport has received multiple awards from Airports Council International World's 2023 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards, including Best airport 2 to 5 million passengers in North America; Airport with the Most Dedicated Staff in North America; Easiest Airport Journey in North America; Most Enjoyable Airport in North America; and Cleanest Airport in North America. Managed and operated by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, the airport is committed to creating an exceptional travel experience for our passengers while fostering growth and prosperity for all of West Michigan. Our team is dedicated, passionate, and focused on innovation, making it a great place to build a rewarding career.

Hourly Rate is based on 2,808 hours annually ($58,518.72) - 24 Hours Schedule, typically 9 shifts per month / Excellent Benefit Package: Details attached to this job posting

Accepting applications through Friday, May 08, 2026.

JOB SUMMARY:

Responds to aircraft incidents, medical emergencies and fires occurring on airport property. Serves as a member of an Airport Fire Department assigned to 24-hour rotating shifts under the supervision of a Fire Captain.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Listed examples are illustrative, and representative of the tasks required of this classification, but are not intended to be complete or exhaustive for this position.

• Responds to aircraft incidents on or adjacent to airport property.
• Operates firefighting equipment and contains and extinguishes aircraft fires and fires occurring on airport property.
• Removes injured passengers and crew from aircraft, removes injured persons from airport buildings, and assists uninjured persons in exiting unsafe aircraft and airport facilities.
• Responds to medical emergencies occurring on airport property.
• Participate in non-emergency response activities such as pre-fire planning, fire and life safety education, firefighter training activities, etc.
• Inspects fuel storage facilities, fuel trucks, fire extinguishers, fire hydrants and other facilities and fixtures on airport property.
• Participates in inspection, cleaning, and maintenance of the fire station, apparatus, equipment, and grounds while reporting any damage, deterioration, obsolescence, or other discrepancies.
• Maintains department documentation including incident reports, daily reports, etc. Ensures all incident reports are timely, accurate and complete.
• Maintains proficiency in the operation of all airport fire department apparatus, equipment, etc.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum of three years firefighting/emergency medical experience. Career firefighting experience is preferred.
• Valid, unrestricted State of Michigan Driver’s license
• MFFTC Firefighter II Certificate
• MFFTC Emergency Vehicle Operator Certificate or CDL
• MFFTC Hazardous Materials First Responder Operations Certificate
• MDHHS licensed Emergency Medical Technician and/or MREMT
• NIMS ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800 certificates
• Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting training and experience is preferred
• Must be able to demonstrate technical skills in all aspects of firefighting and emergency medical services.
• Working knowledge of Part 139 of the Federal Aviation Regulations and other applicable federal, state and local statutes, codes, and ordinances.
• Preferred, but not required qualifications: Fire Inspector certification, EMS Instructor Coordinator, MFFTC Instructor I, NIMS ICS 300 & 400, MFFTC Company Officer/Fire Officer, Associate, or bachelor’s degree.

NOTES:

1. Candidates must be able to pass an FBI fingerprint-based criminal history record check and a TSA security threat assessment.
2. Candidates must pass a written exam and firefighter physical agility test.
3. Employees in this classification must work non-traditional hours. A schedule rotation of 24-hour shifts, including nights and weekends, is required.
4. Employees in this classification are subject to call-in on off-duty hours.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must have sufficient visual acuity, with or without corrective lenses, to visually detect damage, deterioration or defects in structural features, fixtures, furnishings, and operating systems which may present a fire hazard.
• Must have sufficient auditory ability, with or without audiological devices, to hear alarms, other warning signals and vehicle signals indicating backward or forward motion.
• Must be able to enter and exit all truck and equipment cabs.
• Must be able to ascend and descend ladders and/or use man-lift devices to access fires in and/or effect rescues from aircraft and elevated structures.
• Must be able to wear protective clothing and equipment as required.
• Must be able to tolerate exposure to extreme temperatures; smoke, dirt, dust, pollen and other airborne particulates; and inclement weather conditions.
• Must be able to tolerate exposure to chemicals commonly used to contain and extinguish fires.
• Must have sufficient strength and dexterity to control fire hoses carrying water at 150 lbs. of pressure.
• Must have sufficient strength and mobility to remove injured adults from aircraft and airport facilitie

MANDATORY TRAIING:

• Complete all annual required ARFF training to meet 14 CFR 139.319 as broken down in AC 15/5210-17C, including annual live fire training that may be off this airport.
• Complete all State and KCEMS continuing education to maintain a EMT Basic level license.
• Complete all required firefighter training as set for by the Michigan Firefighters Training Council, R 29.418 (5)(a), page 31), and the AHJ continuing education to maintain a State of Michigan Firefighter I & II certifications and other related state certifications.