Firefighter - Quick Hire!
Posted on October 24, 2025
The Florida Department of Military Affairs (DMA) serves as a vital state agency committed to maintaining national security and protecting public safety through the management and oversight of the Florida National Guard. Its mission extends beyond military readiness, encompassing community and state programs that bolster the welfare of the citizens of Florida and contribute to the national defense framework of the United States. DMA operates as a multifaceted organization that supports military personnel and units while fostering robust partnerships with federal, state, and local agencies. The department is headquartered in Jacksonville, FL, and is dedicated to ensuring its workforce is well-trained, well-equipped, and ready to respond to a variety of emergency situations and security threats.
The Department of Military Affairs is currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of Firefighter at Jacksonville International Airport. This Career Service position offers a salary of $45,990.40 annually and presents a challenging and rewarding opportunity for professionals dedicated to emergency response and fire protection services within a military context. The Firefighter job entails engaging in emergency response activities including aircraft, structural, vehicle, and wildland firefighting, as well as hazardous materials (Haz-Mat) response and other critical interventions related to potential terrorist threats or weapons of mass destruction incidents.
This role requires candidates to deliver high standards of operational readiness and preventive maintenance of firefighting apparatus and equipment, ensuring that all units are maintained in a state of preparedness. Fire prevention responsibilities include conducting building life safety inspections, fire drills, and hydrant and extinguisher inspections aligned with established departmental procedures. Additionally, the firefighter will be responsible for performing fire alarm control center operations, managing communications, and coordinating responses with various federal, state, and local agencies.
Working as a firefighter in DMA demands a diverse skill set, including proficiency in aircraft firefighting and rescue techniques, mastery of fire suppression systems, and the ability to handle emergency medical services as required. Candidates must hold a valid Florida Certificate of Compliance as a Firefighter and meet specific Department of Defense (DoD) certifications including Fire Fighter II, Airport Fire Fighter, HAZMAT Operations, Driver/Operator Pumper, ARFF & Tender certifications, and successful completion of DoD Fire Protection School and Career Development Courses.
Ideal candidates will possess excellent physical fitness, strong abilities in emergency operations and fire prevention, and the capacity to operate firefighting vehicles safely. They must demonstrate knowledge of self-contained breathing apparatus and hazards associated with aircraft firefighting. Applicants will undergo a thorough background check, drug screening, and must be able to obtain and maintain a minimum security clearance of SECRET. This role embraces a significant level of responsibility, contributing directly to the safety and security of military personnel, civilians, and infrastructure.
The position includes comprehensive benefits such as health insurance, life insurance, dental, vision and supplemental insurance, retirement benefits, vacation and sick leave, paid holidays, career advancement opportunities, tuition waivers for public college courses, and ongoing training programs. The recruitment process encourages veterans to apply, offering veterans' preference per Florida statutes, and accommodates applicants with disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Candidates interested in joining the Florida Department of Military Affairs as a Firefighter will find this role to be a fulfilling career path that offers competitive compensation, meaningful work, and the chance to serve both their community and country. The department’s commitment to employee well-being and professional growth ensures a supportive work environment that values dedication, competency, and courage in the face of emergencies.
- Must be at least 18 years old
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Valid Florida driver's license
- Must obtain and maintain SECRET security clearance
- Possess State of Florida Certificate of Compliance as a Firefighter obtained no earlier than 1998
- Department of Defense required certifications attained within 12 months of employment
- Successful completion of drug screening
- Participation in direct deposit program
- Provide documentation verifying minimum qualifications
- Good physical condition as determined by annual medical exam
- Nonuser of tobacco products for at least one year prior to application