Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) has announced an opportunity for qualified and motivated individuals to join the organisation as Firefighter Trainees. The authority plays a central role in the management, operation and development of airports and airstrips across the country. As part of its commitment to maintaining high safety standards, ensuring protection of life and property, and improving emergency response capabilities, the authority is seeking applicants for one hundred Firefighter Trainee positions.
The Firefighter Trainee role is a critical component of airport operations. Airports are complex environments where safety cannot be compromised, and the ability to rapidly respond to emergencies is a core requirement. The selected trainees will undergo extensive training and on-the-job exposure to develop the technical, operational and behavioural competencies required for effective firefighting and rescue services. This opportunity offers candidates a chance to build a long-term career in aviation emergency services while contributing to public safety and the smooth functioning of national aviation infrastructure.
This article provides a detailed overview of the job responsibilities, key requirements as provided, the terms and conditions of service, and the submission process for applications. It is structured to serve potential applicants and third-party job boards by presenting the information clearly, neutrally and in a logical format suitable for professional recruitment communication.
Job Purpose
The Firefighter Trainee will be responsible for executing fire and rescue services within airport premises. This includes responding to emergencies involving aircraft, airport users, buildings and airport property. The position is designed for individuals who demonstrate the discipline, physical capability, teamwork orientation and readiness required to perform in high-pressure emergency environments.
The trainee will support the airport’s emergency preparedness framework and contribute to maintaining a safe operational environment. The role requires strict adherence to standard operating procedures, operational manuals, occupational safety rules and aviation emergency response protocols.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Applicants selected for the Firefighter Trainee role will be expected to carry out the following duties as part of their training and eventual deployment:
- Conducting Fire and Rescue Services
The trainee will participate in firefighting activities targeting crashed aircraft and reported fire incidents in buildings or airport installations. This includes containing fires, rescuing individuals, mitigating property damage and providing emergency support services. As part of this responsibility, the trainee must work within established rescue operation frameworks and coordinate with fellow firefighters and emergency units. - Responding to Aircraft Emergencies
The trainee will respond to aircraft-related emergencies in accordance with the airport services manual. These emergencies may include aborted take-offs, landing complications, fuel or hydraulic leaks, and situations requiring rapid response teams. A critical part of this duty is ensuring readiness to deploy at any time and understanding the technical environment in which aircraft operate. - Inspecting Fire Engines, Appliances and Equipment
The trainee will conduct routine inspections of fire engines, appliances and related equipment to confirm their readiness and serviceability. The reliability of emergency equipment is essential to successful operations, and trainees must document inspections, identify defects and escalate maintenance needs promptly. - Cleaning and Maintaining Appliances and Equipment
In addition to inspection, the trainee will be involved in cleaning and maintaining firefighting appliances and equipment. This ensures operational integrity, prolongs equipment lifespan and prepares the units for immediate deployment in emergencies. Routine maintenance will be conducted under supervision and in accordance with safety standards. - Inspecting Runways, Taxiways and Aprons
The role involves inspecting runways, taxiways and aprons for fuel spillage, Foreign Object Debris (FOD) and other hazards. The trainee must ensure these areas remain clean, safe and free from obstacles that could compromise aircraft movement or operational safety. Quick response to reported hazards will be expected. - Inspecting Airport Boundary and Topography
The trainee will inspect airport boundaries and relevant terrain to ensure accessibility for firefighting and rescue operations. This includes assessing routes, reviewing topographical features that may affect emergency vehicle movement and ensuring there is no obstruction that could delay response. - Operating Pumps and Driving Fire Engines
Under supervision and as required, the trainee will operate pumps and drive fire engines and emergency vehicles. This duty requires strict compliance with safety protocols, driving regulations and operational procedures. Trainees will receive instructions on how to handle the specialised machinery used in aviation firefighting. - Participating in Fire Drills
The trainee will participate in regular fire drills designed to simulate emergency scenarios. These drills improve readiness, enhance coordination among firefighting units and ensure compliance with international aviation safety standards. Participation is mandatory as part of competency development.
Key Qualifications and Experience
Applicants must meet the following qualifications and experience as explicitly provided:
– Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) Grade C (Plain), and KCSE Grade C- (Minus) for candidates from minority groups, marginalised communities and persons living with disabilities.
– Basic Fire Training from the National Youth Service or a recognised institution is an added advantage.
– A certificate as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) will be an added advantage.
– Applicants must be twenty-six years old (born on or after 1 January 1999), and not more than twenty-eight years old (born on or after 1 January 1997) for applicants from minority groups, marginalised communities and persons living with disabilities.
Skills and Competencies
The job requires the following skills and competencies:
– Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
– Good communication skills and interpersonal abilities.
These competencies support the demands of emergency operations, where teamwork, coordination and clarity of communication are essential.
Terms and Conditions of Service
The appointment will initially be on a one-year contract for on-the-job training. During this period, trainees will undergo structured training, assessments and supervised field exposure.
Upon successful completion of the one-year training program, the trainee may be appointed to permanent and pensionable terms. Appointment to permanent terms will depend on performance, assessment ratings and readiness to assume full firefighting responsibilities.
Documents to Be Submitted by Applicants
Applicants are required to submit several documents as part of their application. These include:
– An application letter.
– A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
– A daytime phone contact.
– An email address.
– Email and telephone contacts of three referees.
– Certified copies of relevant academic certificates, either certified by the issuing institution or a notary.
– A copy of the National Identification Card.
Only shortlisted candidates will later be required to present clearance certificates as stipulated under Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya 2010. These certificates include:
- Police Clearance Certificate from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.
- Clearance Certificate from the Higher Education Loans Board.
- Tax Compliance Certificate from the Kenya Revenue Authority.
- Clearance from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Authority.
- A Credit Reference Bureau report.
All certificates must be valid and current. Additionally, the EACC self-declaration form must specify the position for which the applicant is applying.
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted and required to provide original copies of their national identification card and academic and professional certificates during the interview.
Submission of Applications
Interested and qualified individuals should submit their applications via electronic mail or in hard copy. Applications must clearly quote the job reference number on the email title line or on the envelope for hard-copy submissions.
Applications should be addressed to:
Ag. Managing Director / CEO
Kenya Airports Authority
KAA Head Office, Airport North Road
P.O. Box 19001-00501
Nairobi, Kenya
Email submissions should be sent to: [email protected]
All documents submitted via email must be in PDF format only.
The deadline for submission is Monday, 8 December 2025 at 5:00 PM East African Time. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered.
Kenya Airports Authority is an equal opportunity employer. Women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from minority and marginalised groups are encouraged to apply.
Any form of canvassing or failure to attach all required documents will result in automatic disqualification.
