Career Opportunity: Wildland Firefighter (Assistant Engine Captain)
Are you looking to take your fire management career to the next level? The U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS) is currently seeking experienced, mission-driven individuals for Assistant Engine Captain positions across various California locations. This role is critical to the safety of our public lands and the success of our federal fire management strategy.
About the U.S. Wildland Fire Service
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service is a vital component of the Department of the Interior. Managing over 500 million acres, the agency is responsible for fire-resilient landscapes and robust emergency responses. Working with the USWFS means joining a national network of professionals dedicated to public service, interagency cooperation, and protecting natural resources from wildfire threats.
Job Responsibilities
As an Assistant Engine Captain, you will operate as a key leader on the fire line. Your duties will include:
- Leadership: Directing crew operations during fire suppression, monitoring, and prescribed fire events.
- Operations: Managing engine readiness, including pump operation, engine positioning, and tactical hose placement.
- Incident Management: Acting as an Initial Attack Incident Commander when necessary and conducting safety sessions for your crew.
- Technical Analysis: Monitoring weather, topography, and fuel conditions to make informed, split-second decisions on fire behavior.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet rigorous federal standards:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
- Age Limits: Applicants must be between 18 and 36 years old at the time of appointment (with limited exceptions).
- Technical Training: Must possess current or past FFT1 and S-290 (Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior) certifications.
- Fitness: You will be required to pass the Arduous Work Capacity Test and maintain strict physical fitness standards.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Level | GW-06 / GW-07 |
| Salary Range | $57,670 - $94,830 |
| Retirement | Enhanced Federal Firefighter Annuity |
| Probationary Period | 1 Year |
Benefits
Beyond a competitive salary, the federal government offers comprehensive benefits, including:
- Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance.
- Generous paid leave accrual (annual and sick).
- Federal retirement plans designed for first responders.
- Opportunities for specialized training and leadership development.
How to Apply
This is a direct-hire position. Please follow these steps to ensure your application is successful:
- Prepare Your Resume: Keep it to exactly two pages. List all relevant experience, dates, and hours worked.
- Gather Documentation: Have your IQCS Master Record, proof of age, and relevant SF-50s ready to upload.
- Submit via USAJOBS: Use the official link to submit your profile and answer the assessment questionnaire.
- Monitor Cut-offs: The agency reviews applications on a recurring basis (e.g., April 20, May 20, June 20, etc.). Submit your application before these dates to ensure review.
Working as an Assistant Engine Captain is a rewarding way to serve your country and protect our natural heritage. If you meet the criteria and are ready for the challenge, apply through the USAJOBS portal today.
Why This Wildland Firefighter (Assistant Engine Captain) Job Matters
Take command of the fire line and protect our nation’s most vital public landscapes as an Assistant Engine Captain with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service.
Wildland Firefighter (Assistant Engine Captain) Job Overview
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service is seeking dedicated professionals to fill multiple Wildland Firefighter (Assistant Engine Captain) positions across California. This role is essential to the mission of managing fire-resilient landscapes and responding to wildfires across 500 million acres of public land. As an Assistant Engine Captain, you will lead fire suppression efforts, maintain engine readiness, and mentor crew members in high-stakes environments. This is a critical role for individuals who possess both technical fire expertise and the leadership skills required to manage complex wildland incidents.
Requirements for Wildland Firefighter (Assistant Engine Captain)
- Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
- Must be at least 18 years old and under age 37 at the time of appointment (unless a preference-eligible veteran or prior covered service applies).
- Must possess Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) and Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (S-290) qualifications.
- Must pass a pre-employment medical exam and the Arduous Work Capacity Test.
- Must hold and maintain a valid state driver's license.
- Must be able to pass a drug test and participate in random drug testing.
- Must register with the Selective Service if born male after 12-31-1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Wildland Firefighter (Assistant Engine Captain)
- Documented experience leading and directing a fire crew in suppression, monitoring, and prescribed fire operations.
- Proven proficiency in operating and troubleshooting wildland fire engines and specialized pumps.
- Experience serving as an Initial Attack Incident Commander.
- Strong technical knowledge of fire behavior, weather patterns, and fuel characteristics.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with step increases.
- ✓Special enhanced annuity retirement provisions for federal firefighters.
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance and life insurance programs.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training within a federal agency.
- ✓Career ladder promotion potential to the GW-07 level.
💡 How to Apply Wildland Firefighter (Assistant Engine Captain) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildland Firefighter (Assistant Engine Captain) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that specifically lists dates (mm/yy), hours worked per week, and detailed duties.
- Gather your IQCS Master Record, proof of age, and relevant SF-50s or DD-214 documents.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents before the relevant cut-off date.
- Submit your application and monitor your status in the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit and font size requirements to avoid disqualification.
- Clearly highlight your IFPM-compliant qualifications early in your resume.
- Check your application status regularly, as the agency will not provide status updates via phone or email.
- If you are over the maximum entry age, provide clear evidence of your prior covered service to ensure you are not automatically excluded.
- Submit your application before the initial cut-off date of April 20, 2026, for the earliest consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum entry age for this position?
The maximum entry age is the date immediately preceding your 37th birthday. Exceptions are made for preference-eligible veterans and individuals with sufficient prior federal service in a primary covered position.
Can I qualify using my education?
No, education cannot be used to qualify for these specific wildland firefighter positions; professional experience is mandatory.
What is the full performance level of this job?
This position is a career ladder role with a full performance level of GW-07.
What if I am over 37?
You may still qualify if you are a preference-eligible veteran or have specific prior federal service in a primary covered firefighter role.
Is telework available?
Due to the nature of wildland fire suppression, this position is not eligible for telework.