Wildland Fire Aviation: Airtanker Base Operator

Forest Service (DOA); Chester (CA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

U.S. Forest Service in Chester, CA is seeking a crewmember for airtanker base support on a fire crew. The role involves maintaining airtanker base facilities, ramp, vehicles and equipment in a National Forest setting.

The position is a temporary appointment within the wildland fire management occupation, with duties including aircraft parking/launch, loading support, and data preparation for routine reports. Work is full-time at a fire base location.

Qualifications

• GW-05: one year of specialized experience equivalent to GW-04 or higher; or a 4-year degree in Fire Science or related field; or a mix of education and experience.
• Experience related to wildland fire suppression, readiness, and equipment servicing.
• Volunteer work and educational transcripts may contribute to qualifications.

Responsibilities

• Operates complex airtanker equipment systems with synchronized components.
• Performs aviation and ground support tasks such as servicing pumps, tanks, reels, hoses.
• Mixes, stores, inspects and delivers fire retardants to specifications.
• Duties include parking and launching firefighting aircraft to/from base.
• Assist in airtanker loading operations and prepare Forest Service reports.

Job description

U.S. Forest Service in Chester, CA is seeking a crewmember for airtanker base support on a fire crew. The role involves maintaining airtanker base facilities, ramp, vehicles and equipment in a National Forest setting.

The position is a temporary appointment within the wildland fire management occupation, with duties including aircraft parking/launch, loading support, and data preparation for routine reports. Work is full-time at a fire base location.