LEAD FIREFIGHTER (HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TECH/ BLS
Air Education and Training Command
Posted: January 6, 2026 (8 days ago)
This job has been posted for 1-2 weeks. Still a good time to apply.
U.S. Air Forces, Europe
Department of the Air Force
Location
Location not specified
Salary
$56,036 - $65,302
per year
Type
Full Time
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This job involves inspecting, handling, packaging, and shipping hazardous materials like munitions and explosives in the U.S.
Air Force in Europe, while ensuring everything follows safety rules and protecting secure shipments.
A good fit would be someone with hands-on experience in dangerous materials who pays close attention to details, works well under supervision, and can handle physically demanding tasks in tough environments.
Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.
The primary purpose of this position is to perform the full range of Hazardous Materials Inspection duties relative to the processing, handling and shipment of Hazardous Materials, including munitions and explosives.
In conjunction with the primary purpose. the employee ensures the safeguard of security and classified shipments as well as registered mail.
In order to qualify, you must meet the quality level of experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook X-118C.
QUALIFICATIONS: Applicants will be rated in accordance with the OPM Qualification Standard Handbook X-118C for the WG-6500 Ammunition, Explosives, and Toxic Materials Work Group.
Although a specific length of time and experience is not required for most blue-collar positions, you must meet any screen-out element listed and show through experience and training that you possess the quality level of knowledge and skill necessary to perform the duties of the position at the level for which you are applying.
Qualification requirements emphasis is on the quality of experience, not necessarily the length of time.
The screen out element for this position is ability to do the work of a HAZARDOUS MATERIALS HANDLING INSPECTOR without more than normal supervision.
JOB ELEMENTS: Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: 1.
Knowledge required in all aspects of inspecting, handling, processing, packaging and shipment of Hazardous Materials. 2.
Ability to perform Hazardous/Explosive Material Inspections to insure all safety requirements are met. 3.
Ability to use applicable regulations, TO's and directives to insure safe transportation of Hazardous/Explosive Material. 4. Must be able to attain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance. 5.
Knowledge of regulations, procedures, and policies related to records maintenance and documentation and ability to screen shipping and receiving documents for discrepancies. 6.
Knowledge of safety regulations. practices, and procedures. Skill in the use of automated material processing equipment and systems.
Skill in the use of automated material processing equipment and systems.
Ability to use and maintain tools and equipment required to perform hazardous material inspections, blocking and bracing and vehicle maintenance, keep work area in a neat, clean, and orderly manner.
Physical Effort: Works on hard surfaces and in work areas that require standing, stooping, bending, and working in tiring and uncomfortable positions. May lift and carry weights up to 40 pounds.
May handle heavier items with weight lifting equipment or with assistance from other workers.
Working Conditions: Work is done inside and outside in areas that may be hot, damp, cold, drafty, or poorly lighted.
Employee is regularly exposed to the possibility of cuts, scrapes, and bruises, falls from ladders, falling material, or injury from equipment.
May be exposed to dust, dirt, grease, solvents, and high noise areas while working in a mechanized work area, or radiation, toxins, explosives hazards, or chemical fumes while working in a hazardous materials area.
May be required to wear protective clothing such as hard hats, steel toed shoes, rubber gloves, masks, and rubber aprons.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work.
You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social).
Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Major Duties:
- Responsible for performing an effective Hazardous/Explosive Material Inspection operation.
- Performs tasks involved in receiving, issuing, storing and shipping Hazardous/Explosive and Security shipments - Loads and unloads Hazardous/Explosive, Reregistered Mail, Security, Perishable and Human Remain shipments from aircraft and surface transport.
- Applicable regulations and standard operating procedures.
- Operates automated material handling and identification equipment to include mobile stock selectors and electromechanical automated equipment such as high-rise automated storage and retrieval vehicles, to move, stack and unstack, bin, and position material.
- Performs material handling duties, including the use of tools and other equipment, in a safe manner, utilizing safety practices and procedures, and complying with established safety rules and regulations.
- Maintains records and documents actions.
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