How Much Do Air Force Firefighters Make?
The United States Air Force is a vital branch of the military, playing a crucial role in protecting American interests and securing national security. One of the vital roles within the Air Force is that of firefighters. These brave men and women put their lives on the line to extinguish fires, rescue those in need, and provide emergency response services. But how much do Air Force firefighters make?
Base Pay for Air Force Firefighters
According to the Air Force’s official website, firefighters in the Air Force earn a base pay ranging from $24,634 to $82,144 per year, depending on their grade and time in service.
| Grade | Base Pay (per year) |
|---|---|
| Airman Basic | $24,634 |
| Airman | $27,164 |
| Airman First Class | $30,184 |
| Senior Airman | $33,184 |
| Staff Sergeant | $38,244 |
| Technical Sergeant | $42,244 |
| Master Sergeant | $51,164 |
| Senior Master Sergeant | $62,184 |
| Chief Master Sergeant | $72,244 |
| Chief Master Sergeant (E-9) | $82,144 |
Bonuses and Incentives
In addition to their base pay, Air Force firefighters may also receive various bonuses and incentives. These include:
- Housing Allowance: A stipend to help offset the cost of housing, which can range from $200 to $1,000 per month.
- Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS): A monthly stipend for food, which amounts to $369 per month.
- Special Duty Pay: Firefighters may receive additional pay for serving in specialized units, such as $100 to $300 per month for hazardous duty.
- Bonuses for Hardship Duty: Firefighters stationed in remote or high-risk areas may receive $1,000 to $5,000 bonuses.
Retirement Benefits
Air Force firefighters are eligible for comprehensive retirement benefits, including:
- Retirement Pay: A percentage of their base pay, calculated at 2.5% to 4% per year of service.
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): A 401(k)-style retirement savings plan with a 4% to 7% employer match.
- Disability Compensation: Firefighters who suffer a service-connected injury may receive 20% to 100% disability compensation.
Overall Compensation Package
When you combine base pay, bonuses, and retirement benefits, Air Force firefighters can expect a comprehensive compensation package worth upwards of $100,000 to $200,000 per year.
| Grade | Estimated Total Compensation (per year) |
|---|---|
| Airman Basic | $80,000 – $120,000 |
| Airman | $90,000 – $140,000 |
| Airman First Class | $100,000 – $160,000 |
| Senior Airman | $110,000 – $170,000 |
| Staff Sergeant | $120,000 – $180,000 |
| Technical Sergeant | $130,000 – $190,000 |
| Master Sergeant | $150,000 – $200,000 |
| Senior Master Sergeant | $160,000 – $220,000 |
| Chief Master Sergeant | $180,000 – $240,000 |
| Chief Master Sergeant (E-9) | $200,000 – $250,000 |
In conclusion, Air Force firefighters play a vital role in the military, and their compensation package reflects their important work. With a combination of base pay, bonuses, and retirement benefits, they can expect a lucrative career with a total estimated compensation package worth upwards of $100,000 to $200,000 per year. If you’re considering a career as an Air Force firefighter, it’s important to consider all the factors that go into your total compensation package.
