The special operations division encompasses several unique emergency activities, which require additional training and certifications for department personnel. These activities generally include hazardous materials response, and technical rescue response.

All department members are trained to the Haz-Mat Operations level, and several members have also been certified as Haz-Mat Technicians. The department actively serves as part of the Massachusetts Hazardous Materials Response Team.

Several members are trained in technical rescue operations as well. Technical rescue is generally divided into high angle, trench collapse, confined space, and urban collapse rescues. Each type of rescue poses a unique situation and requires additional training, certifications, and equipment. The department has minor capabilities at this time, with plans to progress to a more advanced level in the near future.

As part of special operations, the department also operates it's own dive team. The Auburn Fire Department Dive Team is made up of one dive truck, two boats, and several certified divers and ground crew operators. Divers are composed of Auburn firefighters and police officers, as well as several other public safety and civilian members. The dive team has year round capabilities, and hosts a variety of advanced equipment. In addition to the dive team, all fire department members are trained in basic water and surface ice rescue.