Become a Leader in Fire Management: Supervisory Wildland Firefighter
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service is looking for a courageous and skilled professional to join our team in Porter, Indiana. As a Supervisory Wildland Firefighter, you are not just an employee; you are a guardian of our nation’s landscapes. This position offers a unique blend of leadership, technical expertise, and field-based operations, perfect for those ready to advance their career in wildland fire management.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will supervise a team of firefighters while performing the following key duties:
- Fire Line Leadership: Directing resources on the ground during active fire incidents.
- Program Management: Overseeing budgets, facility maintenance, and fleet inspections.
- Training & Mentorship: Developing and executing training programs to ensure compliance with federal safety and policy guidelines.
- Logistics: Managing equipment, cache supplies, and fire engines to ensure peak readiness.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Supervisory Wildland Firefighter |
| Location | Porter, Indiana |
| Salary Range | $75,589 - $98,261 |
| Schedule | Full-Time |
Requirements
This is a rigorous, physically demanding position with strict criteria:
- Age: Under 37 (unless veteran preference or prior service applies).
- Certification: Must meet IFPM standards, specifically NWCG Engine Boss (ENGB) and Incident Commander (ICT4).
- License: Valid state driver's license required; Commercial Driver's License may be needed post-hire.
- Physicality: Must pass the arduous work capacity test and a medical examination.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $75,589 to $98,261 per year, commensurate with federal pay scales. In addition to a steady salary, employees benefit from federal retirement provisions specific to firefighters, ensuring financial security after your years of service.
Benefits
- Retirement: Enhanced annuity retirement for federal firefighters.
- Health: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
- Stability: Federal holidays and generous paid time off.
- Relocation: Basic moving expenses may be covered for eligible candidates.
Application Tips
- Review Your Resume: Keep it to two pages and ensure every entry has a date and hour-per-week breakdown.
- Documentation: Don't forget your IQCS master record; it is the single most important document for proving your technical eligibility.
- Follow Instructions: If you are a veteran or have prior service, submit your DD-214 and relevant SF-50s immediately to avoid disqualification.
Serving as a Supervisory Wildland Firefighter is a challenging, noble calling. If you have the experience, the drive, and the qualifications to lead our fire crews, we encourage you to apply by July 13, 2026. Join us in protecting our precious natural heritage.
Why This Supervisory Wildland Firefighter Job Matters
Take command on the front lines and lead teams in preserving our nation's wildlands as a Supervisory Wildland Firefighter with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service.
Supervisory Wildland Firefighter Job Overview
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service is seeking a dedicated and experienced Supervisory Wildland Firefighter to join the team in Porter, Indiana. This leadership role is vital for fire suppression, program management, and the training of personnel. You will handle administrative duties, budget execution, and equipment oversight, while also providing critical leadership during active fire line operations. This is a high-stakes, rewarding position that requires physical resilience, administrative precision, and a strong commitment to public safety.
Requirements for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be under the age of 37 at time of appointment (unless a preference-eligible veteran or prior Federal service exception applies).
- Hold and maintain a valid state driver's license.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment medical exam and drug test.
- Must pass the arduous work capacity test.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 level.
- Must meet IFPM standards including NWCG qualifications for Engine Boss (ENGB) and Incident Commander Type 4 (ICT4).
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter
- Extensive experience in wildland fire behavior, topography, and fuel management.
- Demonstrated ability to manage fire line resources under high-pressure conditions.
- Strong administrative skills regarding budget, equipment, and facility management.
- Proactive approach to developing training and mentorship programs for subordinate firefighters.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal retirement benefits with special provisions for primary firefighters.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Relocation assistance available for eligible candidates.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and specialized training.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Wildland Firefighter Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter Job
- Register for or log in to your existing USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that details specific dates of employment, hours worked per week, and duty descriptions.
- Gather your IQCS Master Record and proof of age documentation.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including your SF-50 if applicable.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of July 13, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume does not exceed two pages, as longer documents will not be accepted.
- Clearly highlight your experience in fire behavior and leadership roles to support the specialized experience requirement.
- Double-check that your IQCS master record is included, as omission will result in immediate disqualification.
- Be precise with your employment dates (month/year) and hours worked to avoid 'ineligible' ratings.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age limit for this position?
The maximum entry age is 37. Exceptions are made for preference-eligible veterans and those with prior service in covered federal firefighting positions.
Is telework available for this role?
No, this position is not suitable for telework due to the field-based nature of firefighting duties.
What specific NWCG qualifications are required?
You must be qualified as an Engine Boss (ENGB) and an Incident Commander Type 4 (ICT4) to be considered.
What is the mandatory retirement age for this position?
Federal firefighters are subject to a mandatory retirement age of 57, barring specific exceptions for length of service or veteran status.
Will I have to live in the backcountry?
Yes, the role may require living in remote bivouac camps for extended periods during fire seasons.
Job from Office Of The Secretary Of The Interior
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS) oversees one of the largest and most critical fire management programs in the country. Working within the Department of the Interior, we protect over 500 million acres of public and tribal land. We partner with state agencies, tribal nations, and the U.S. Forest Service to create resilient landscapes and provide professional, high-level fire response capabilities.