Firefighter Equipment Operations

Closing Date: 03/22/2026

Firefighter and Equipment Operator

Milwaukee County - General Mitchell International Airport

Hourly Pay: $31.09

Firefighters work a 56-hour work week, working 24 hours on and 48 hours off for a total of 2,912 hours per year.

Position Summary: Under general supervision, this position serves as a firefighter/equipment operator of Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) apparatus at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport. Responsible for the safe operation of apparatus during emergencies involving aircraft and structures. In addition, responds to medical emergencies to render aid at the EMT - B level. Inspect buildings, fueling facilities/vehicles for hazards.

Position Responsibilities:

• Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF). Serve as Firefighter/Equipment Operator of ARFF apparatus. Drive and maneuver vehicles to the most advantageous position during aircraft emergencies. Operate pumps, deploy hoses to perform firefighting, rescue, and salvage operations.
• Emergency Medical Response. Respond to medical emergencies and provide care to airport patrons and/or employees.
• Equipment and Supply Maintenance. Maintain assigned emergency response equipment in good working condition. Report any out of service equipment and facilitate repair by maintenance personnel.
• Perform Inspections. Perform inspections of ARFF vehicles, buildings, structures, fuel facilities, and fuel vehicles for hazards.
• Provide training and instruction. Instruct others on the most up-to-date techniques and methods of firefighting and fire prevention.
• Facility Maintenance. Maintain quarters and surrounding areas in clean, sanitary, and orderly condition.
• Complete reports. Prepare reports and perform such other duties as may be assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Current resident of Wisconsin

• Possession of a valid Wisconsin driver's license required and maintained throughout incumbency.
• Candidates with the following qualifications will be considered:
  
  
  
  • High School diploma or GED equivalent and a minimum of 30 semester hours of college credit, including at least three (3) years of experience as a Firefighter
  • Candidates with an associate degree in Fire Protection Technician or Fire Science and Firefighter II Certification
  • Candidates who have successfully completed the Milwaukee County Firefighter Apprentice Program
  
  
  
  
• Federal Airport Security regulations require that applicants undergo a personal background and employment history verification before issuance of a badge that permits access to secure areas.
• Must pass a Physical exam that meets National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard.
• Ability to lift/carry up to 100lbs. and push/pull up to 100Ibs.

Licensure and Certification Requirements:

• Wisconsin State Emergency Medical Technician
• Firefighter I/II Certification
• HAZMAT Operations
• Candidate Physical Ability Test (CPAT) must be completed prior to starting Firefighter Academy
• AEMT shall be obtained at the discretion of the Fire Chief

Preferred Areas:

• Aircraft Rescue Firefighting (ARFF) certification highly desired.
• Motor Pump Operator (MPO) Certification

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Specialized experience must include knowledge to drive and operate firefighting vehicles of significant complexity and size, and of the principles of hydraulics as they pertain to water flow, water pressure, water levels, line (friction) losses, etc. Knowledge of basic and specialized airfield and structural firefighting equipment (fire alarm system operation, fire extinguishing equipment operation, etc.), techniques, and procedures. Knowledge of basic building design, construction, and occupancy; and of the unique hazards associated with aircraft design, and cabin layouts to include the operation of hatch release mechanisms, and/or oxygen supply systems. Knowledge of Basic Life Support techniques, terminologies, and protocols. Skill in operating communications equipment. Ability to maintain good working relations; to communicate orally and in writing; and to lift and carry heavy loads. Knowledge of safety requirements as outlined in applicable safety standards, regulations, technical orders, and FAA Advisory Circulars.

NOTE: This original application is open to permanent residents of the state of Wisconsin at the time of application. In accordance with Section 11, Rule 3 of the Civil Service Rules a non-competitive examination will be held for this position. The non-competitive examination will consist of criteria deemed appropriate by the Director of Human Resources.

APPLICANTS MUST POSSESS MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AT TIME OF FILING APPLICATION