Firefighter
Job Description
SKILLS YOU’LL LEARN
- Fire Protection
- Physical & Mental Strength
- Emergency Response
Responsibilities
As an Army Firefighter, you’ll have the vital task of protecting peoples’ lives and property from fire, much like their civilian counterparts. You’ll control and prevent fires, not only in Army structures, but also aboard aircraft and ships. You’ll supervise and conduct firefighting, rescue, salvage, and fire protection operations, and you’ll perform emergency response duties during hazardous materials incidents.
What can I do if I don’t meet the eligibility requirements to join?The Army has a waiver process that you can take advantage of to prove you overcame a disqualifying issue that would otherwise prevent you from joining the Army. After submitting a waiver, a review takes place to make sure you can join. If your waiver is denied, you can also look into pursuing a civilian career within the Army.
How does Army pay compare to civilian pay?Your Army salary is just one part of the total compensation Soldiers earn. While civilian jobs may pay higher baseline salaries, the Army offers a starting salary above the federal minimum wage, plus a variety of benefits on top of your base pay that add up. When you consider affordable health care for part-time Soldiers and free health care for full-time Soldiers, plus access to bonuses, allowances for housing, food, and clothing, education benefits to get a college degree with less debt, and more financial benefits, the Army offers a competitive choice to similar civilian careers.
What benefits will I receive as a Soldier?The Army offers a complete package of benefits that not only supports you and your family, but also helps you advance in your career. Whether you serve part-time or full-time as an enlisted Soldier or Army Officer, you’ll earn competitive pay with opportunities for bonuses, as well as receive health care at little to no cost. You could also receive money for education, student loan repayment assistance, training and certifications, housing, living expenses, and more.
Job Requirements
10weeks of Basic Training
13weeks of Advanced Individual Training
88ASVAB Score: General Maintenance (GM)
U.S. Citizen
17 to 34 Years Old
High School Diploma or GED
Meet Tattoo Guidelines
No Major Law Violations
No Medical Concerns
What are the physical requirements to join the Army?For both the enlisted Soldier and commissioned Officer paths, you’ll need to meet the height and weight requirements for your age and gender before joining. A recruiter will work with you after you join to meet the physical requirements of your chosen Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).
The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) evaluates your physical and mental abilities, starting at Basic Training for enlisted Soldiers and during initial training for those commissioning as Officers. Everyone will need to pass the ACFT during training and again several times a year for every year of service. Scores are recorded twice a year for active duty Soldiers in the Army, or once a year for members of the Army Reserve and Army National Guard. The Army will be there to support your growth with resources during every step of the evaluation process to ensure your success.
Do I need to attend Basic Training?Before you can become a Soldier, you’ll first need to complete a form of Basic Training—Basic Combat Training for enlisted Soldiers and the Basic Officer Leadership Course for Army Officers, as well as any additional training your job may require. Over the course of your training, you’ll learn the skills, knowledge, and discipline needed to become a Soldier. Active-duty Soldiers and Officers also have ongoing training to keep their skills sharp, so they stay ready for anything.
