Become a Leader in Wildland Fire Management
Are you a seasoned firefighting professional looking to take the next step in your career? The U.S. Wildland Fire Service is hiring Supervisory Wildland Firefighters to manage critical fire operations in California. This role is designed for those who possess the grit, tactical knowledge, and leadership experience to guide crews through high-stakes wildfire and prescribed fire scenarios.
Job Responsibilities
As a Wildland Fire Operations Technician, your day-to-day duties will be anything but standard. Key responsibilities include:
- Tactical Leadership: Directing fireline activities, including handcrew operations, engine deployment, and aircraft management during incidents.
- Incident Coordination: Working closely with dispatch to relay fire behavior and logistical needs.
- Strategic Oversight: Participating in the formulation of incident objectives and ensuring all operations are conducted safely.
- Supervision: Managing crew performance, training, and equipment maintenance.
Comparison: Standard vs. Supervisory Roles
| Feature | Standard Firefighter | Supervisory Technician |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Suppression Tactics | Tactical & Logistical Command |
| Supervision | Individual contributor | Manages crews and performance |
| Complexity | Operational | High Complexity (IFPM Standard) |
Requirements
Candidates must meet stringent federal standards. You must be a U.S. Citizen, possess substantial fireline experience, and hold current NWCG qualifications for DIVS, ICT3, or RXB2/ASGS levels. Arduous physical fitness and the ability to work in rugged, remote environments are non-negotiable.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary ranging from $78,166 to $101,609. Along with federal pay, you will receive robust health benefits, retirement options, and the opportunity for relocation assistance.
Application Tips
- Format Matters: Keep your resume to exactly two pages. The HR team is strict about this.
- Documentation: Don't forget your IQCS Master Record; it is the primary way we verify your credentials.
- Clarity: Clearly define your dates of service and hours worked per week.
Protecting our wildlands is a challenge that requires the best talent available. If you have the experience and the dedication, we encourage you to apply to this open continuous vacancy today.
Why This Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Wildland Fire Operations Technician) Job Matters
Take your wildland firefighting leadership to the next level with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service, overseeing critical operations in the heart of California.
Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Wildland Fire Operations Technician) Job Overview
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service is seeking experienced professionals to serve as Supervisory Wildland Firefighters (Wildland Fire Operations Technician). In this pivotal role, you will provide oversight during initial and extended fire attacks, coordinate essential logistical resources, and lead fireline tactics. This position is vital to protecting public lands and requires a high level of operational expertise and leadership in challenging, dynamic environments.
Requirements for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Wildland Fire Operations Technician)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Possess substantial wildland firefighting experience (minimum 90 days).
- Must meet IFPM (Interagency Fire Program Management) standards for High Complexity roles.
- Must hold valid NWCG qualifications for either Pathway 1 (DIVS and ICT3 or RXB2) or Pathway 2 (ASGS and ICT3).
- Must possess a valid state driver's license.
- Must pass a pre-employment medical examination and drug screening.
- Must pass the Work Capacity Test (Arduous).
- Registration with the Selective Service (if born after 12-31-1959).
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Wildland Fire Operations Technician)
- Proven experience in leading wildland fire modules.
- Demonstrated expertise in directing fireline construction, backfiring, and pump operations.
- Advanced tactical knowledge regarding fire behavior monitoring and weather data analysis.
- Ability to manage crew inventory, training needs, and complex operational records.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Relocation expense reimbursement for eligible candidates
- ✓Paid time off and federal holidays
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Wildland Fire Operations Technician) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Wildland Fire Operations Technician) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
- Ensure your resume details specific dates of employment, hours worked per week, and job duties.
- Upload required documentation, including your IQCS Master Record to verify NWCG qualifications.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the chosen cut-off date.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume specifically to show your fireline experience; do not include personal information like SSN or photos.
- Ensure your IQCS Master Record is attached, as failure to provide it will automatically disqualify your application.
- Be precise with your 'from' and 'to' dates in your job history to meet HR validation requirements.
- Submit early; there are multiple cut-off dates throughout the year for this open continuous announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this position requires on-site presence and is not suitable for telework.
Do I need to be a current federal employee to apply?
No, this is a public-facing announcement. However, qualification standards differ slightly based on your current federal status.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
The system will not accept your application. You must keep your federal resume to a maximum of two single-sided pages.
Job from Office Of The Secretary Of The Interior
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS) is a core component of the Department of the Interior. Managing over 500 million acres of public and tribal land, the agency is dedicated to creating resilient landscapes through proactive fire management and rapid emergency response. As a team member, you will collaborate with federal, state, and local partners to protect our nation's natural resources.