Airport Firefighter

Roanoke-Blacksburg Airport (ROA)

Protect. Respond. Serve.

The Roanoke Regional Airport Commission is seeking dedicated, professional firefighters to join our Airport Fire Department. As an Airport Firefighter, you will protect the traveling public, airport employees, tenants, and visitors by providing Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) services, emergency medical response, and emergency support during aircraft incidents and other emergencies.

Competitive salary based on qualifications and experience.

The Commission offers a comprehensive benefits package, including participation in the Roanoke City pension plan, health, dental, and vision insurance, paid leave, holidays, life insurance, employee assistance program, and professional training opportunities.

• Respond to aircraft emergencies, medical incidents, hazardous materials events, and other emergencies on airport property.
• Operate specialized Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) apparatus and firefighting equipment.
• Provide emergency medical care consistent with your level of certification until advanced medical personnel arrive.
• Participate in aircraft emergency response, rescue operations, and incident recovery.
• Conduct fire extinguisher inspections and support fire prevention activities.
• Participate in required ARFF and emergency medical training to maintain FAA compliance.
• Assist with emergency preparedness activities and airport safety initiatives.
• Help maintain fire apparatus, emergency vehicles, equipment, and station facilities.
• Serve as Essential Personnel during snow events and other emergencies, supporting airport operations and public safety.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Virginia Firefighter I certification (or equivalent training and experience).
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
• Ability to obtain and maintain TSA security clearance for unescorted access to secure airport areas.
• Ability to successfully complete a pre‑employment background investigation, medical examination, drug screening, and physical agility assessment.

• Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) experience.
• Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), EMT, or higher certification.
• Hazardous Materials Operations certification.
• Associate degree in Fire Science, Emergency Services, Criminal Justice, or a related field.
• Three years of fire service or emergency services experience.

Required – Employees who do not already possess the required airport‑specific certifications will receive training to obtain the following certifications within twelve months of hire (subject to course availability):

• FAA‑required Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) certification.
• Virginia Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) certification or higher.

• Integrity and professionalism.
• Strong decision‑making under pressure.
• Excellent communication and teamwork.
• A commitment to safety and customer service.
• Sound judgment and attention to detail.
• A willingness to continually learn and train.

This position requires rotating shifts and may include nights, weekends, holidays, overtime, emergency call‑back, and extended hours during severe weather or other emergencies. This position is designated as Essential Personnel.

Physically demanding; requires the ability to lift, carry, climb, crawl, work in confined spaces, wear structural firefighting protective equipment and self‑contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and perform strenuous work in all weather conditions. Candidates must successfully complete the Commission's physical agility assessment and maintain the physical ability to perform essential job functions.

Working at ROA offers a unique opportunity to serve in a highly specialized public safety environment while supporting the region's commercial airport. You will work alongside dedicated professionals committed to protecting lives, supporting aviation safety, and serving our community.

If you’re looking for a rewarding career where your skills, professionalism, and commitment to public safety truly make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.

The Roanoke Regional Airport Commission is an Equal Opportunity Employer.