12M Firefighter

About the role

As a Firefighter in the Army National Guard, you will perform firefighting and rescue operations on and off the battlefield. You will help prevent fires in buildings, aircraft, and aboard ships, and respond to hazardous material emergencies.

Job duties

• Perform rescue and firefighting operations during structural fires, aircraft crashes, vehicle emergencies, and natural cover fires
• Inspect aircraft, buildings, and equipment for fire hazards
• Operate firefighting equipment and vehicles, including pumps, hoses, and extinguishers
• Enter vehicles and buildings to fight fires and rescue personnel
• Drive fire and emergency rescue vehicles
• Administer first aid and care for injured personnel
• Perform fire hazard inspections
• Teach fire protection procedures
• Maintain firefighting equipment

Skills you'll learn

• Fighting different types of fires
• Firefighting equipment operations
• First aid and rescue procedures

Helpful skills

• Ability to remain calm under stress
• Willingness to risk injury to help others
• Ability to think and act decisively

Training

Job training for Firefighters consists of 10 weeks of Basic Training, where you'll learn basic Soldiering skills, and 13 weeks of Advanced Individual Training. Training consists of time in the classroom and work in the field.

Benefits

• Paid training
• A monthly paycheck
• Montgomery GI Bill
• Federal and State tuition assistance
• Retirement benefits for part-time service
• Low-cost life insurance (up to $400,000 in coverage)
• 401(k)-type savings plan
• Student Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000, for existing loans)
• Health care benefits available
• VA home loans
• Bonuses, if applicable
• Most non-prior service candidates will earn between $200 and $250 per drill weekend, subject to change

Requirements

• Military enlistment in the Army National Guard
• Must be at least a junior in high school, or have a high school diploma or a GED certificate
• Must be between the ages of 17 and 35
• Must be able to pass a physical exam and meet legal and moral standards
• Must meet citizenship requirements (see NATIONALGUARD.com for details)

Civilian career opportunities

Through your training, you will develop the skills and experience to enjoy a civilian career in a firefighting crew in your community. Additional certifications or licenses may enable you to work as a fire inspector, fire investigator, or fire safety specialist.