Job Description
Aerial firefighters, AKA smokejumpers or rappellers, are deployed to fight wildfires by parachuting or rappelling from aircraft. Known as an air attack, aerial firefighting also utilizes airtankers to drop fire retardants on large portions of burn zones. Some helicopters are equipped with a drip torch or Delayed Ariel Ignition Device (DAID) to light backburns and controlled burns. Smokejumpers are highly trained and skilled teams of parachuting fire suppression crews. They anticipate fire behavior and develop tactics in response.

Median Salary
$49,000

Education Requirements
Aerial firefighters are often hired from many backgrounds including science, teaching, and firefighting. Many have degrees in geology, fire science, and ecology.

Job Outlook
Because aerial firefighting is often a temporary position, there will be a constant demand for applicants.