Embark on a Critical Role as a Fire Program Assistant
Are you an organized professional with a passion for supporting vital public services? The U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS) is hiring a Fire Program Assistant to join our team in Tupelo, Mississippi. This is your chance to contribute to the mission of protecting over 500 million acres of public and tribal lands while managing the essential administrative machinery that keeps our operations running smoothly.
Position Responsibilities
As the Fire Program Assistant, you will act as a primary point of contact for administrative and financial operations. Key duties include:
- Budget Management: Assisting with the formulation of fire management budgets and tracking fund transfers.
- Procurement: Utilizing automated financial systems to process office and fire program purchases.
- Incident Support: Serving as a subject matter expert in emergency incident administrative procedures.
- System Maintenance: Managing the Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) for local responders.
Job Grade Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | GS-07 |
| Series | 0303 (Miscellaneous Clerk/Assistant) |
| Promotion Potential | None |
| Location | Tupelo, MS |
Requirements
Candidates must demonstrate exceptional accuracy and attention to detail. Beyond standard U.S. citizenship, applicants must meet a selective placement factor: a typing proficiency of at least 40 words per minute. Your resume must clearly outline your professional history, including exact hours worked per week, and must not exceed two pages.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $50,460 to $65,599 per year. Beyond the salary, federal employees gain access to a comprehensive benefits package, including robust health insurance, retirement plans, and work-life balance initiatives.
Application Tips
Success in the federal application process requires meticulous preparation. We highly recommend using the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you include all mandatory information, such as specific dates and hours worked. Because this is a Direct Hire Authority position, veterans' preference and standard ranking procedures do not apply in the traditional sense, so highlighting your specific specialized experience is paramount.
The role of Fire Program Assistant is essential for the efficiency of the U.S. Wildland Fire Service. If you are ready to bring your administrative skills to a dynamic, mission-driven environment in Tupelo, we encourage you to review the full requirements and submit your application before the July 16, 2026, deadline.
Why This Fire Program Assistant (Oa) - Direct Hire Authority Job Matters
Join the U.S. Wildland Fire Service and play a pivotal role in supporting fire management operations as a Fire Program Assistant in Tupelo, Mississippi.
Fire Program Assistant (Oa) - Direct Hire Authority Job Overview
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service is seeking a dedicated administrative professional for a Fire Program Assistant (OA) position located in Tupelo, MS, at the Natchez Trace Parkway. This position provides critical operational and administrative support to the Southern Area Unit 3, managing complex financial and record-keeping systems that underpin our vital wildfire management missions.
Requirements for Fire Program Assistant (Oa) - Direct Hire Authority
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be at least 18 years of age by the closing date.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Must possess a valid driver's license for government motor vehicle operation.
- Must have the ability to type at least 40 words per minute (selective placement factor).
- Must agree to receive federal payments via direct deposit.
- Must be willing to work on-call, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
Preferred Qualifications for Fire Program Assistant (Oa) - Direct Hire Authority
- Experience in federal budget formulation and annual operating plan development.
- Proficiency with automated financial systems for procurement and cost tracking.
- Experience managing emergency incident administrative procedures including time, travel, and procurement.
- Background in maintaining records within the Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS).
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office suite for report and presentation development.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- ✓Comprehensive retirement planning (FERS).
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for eligible candidates.
💡 How to Apply Fire Program Assistant (Oa) - Direct Hire Authority Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Fire Program Assistant (Oa) - Direct Hire Authority Job
- Log into or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages and explicitly lists hours worked per week.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including proof of eligibility for specific hiring paths.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of July 16, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes month/year start and end dates and total hours per week for every position listed.
- Adhere strictly to the two-page limit; extra pages will not be reviewed.
- Do not include photographs or Adobe portfolio files in your submission.
- Double-check that you have attached your typing certification or evidence if required.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telework available for this position?
No, this position is not eligible for regular telework; it is only suitable for telework during specific emergencies or natural disasters.
What is the specialized experience requirement for the GS-07 level?
You must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-06 level in federal service, such as budget formulation, travel coordination, and office administration.
What documents are mandatory for the application?
You must provide a two-page resume, and if applicable, documents supporting your veteran status or CTAP/ICTAP eligibility.
Will I be interviewed?
While not mandatory, supervisors are highly encouraged to interview candidates to assess technical competencies.
Job from Office Of The Secretary Of The Interior
The USWFS, an organization within the Department of the Interior, is the backbone of federal wildfire management. We work in tandem with the Forest Service, tribal partners, and state foresters to promote fire-resilient landscapes. Working with us means becoming part of an interagency effort that makes a tangible difference in land stewardship and emergency response.