Embark on a Career as a Wildland Firefighter
Are you looking for a physically challenging, meaningful career protecting our nation's most precious natural resources? The U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS) is seeking highly motivated individuals to join our Fuels Crew in Whiteriver, Arizona. This position is the perfect starting point for those passionate about forest management, fire suppression, and emergency response.
Job Responsibilities
As a member of the Fuels Crew, you will:
- Serve as an active member of an engine crew.
- Participate in specialized suppression techniques, including backfire and burnout operations.
- Operate light vehicles and 4x4 equipment in varied, rugged terrain.
- Perform arduous physical labor, including tree felling and heavy lifting.
Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Age Limit | Under 37 years old (with specific exceptions) |
| License | Valid state driver's license |
| Medical | Must pass a pre-employment physical exam |
| Fitness | Must pass the arduous work capacity test |
Salary Overview
The position offers a competitive salary range of $48,424 to $62,955 per year, reflecting the specialized nature of the duties and the risks involved in the environment.
Benefits
Joining the USWFS means entering a community dedicated to public service. You will receive extensive on-the-job training and access to the specialized federal firefighter retirement annuity program, which allows for earlier retirement given the rigorous nature of the work.
Application Tips
Your federal resume is the most important document in your application package. Ensure it is formatted at a minimum 10-point font with 0.5-inch margins, and keep it under two single-sided pages. Every job entry should clearly state dates of employment (mm/yy) and hours worked per week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the maximum entry age for this job? A: Generally, applicants must be under 37 years of age. Exceptions exist for preference-eligible veterans and those with prior federal service in covered positions.
Q: Is housing provided? A: This announcement does not explicitly list housing; please contact the hiring office for local information regarding the Whiteriver area.
Working as a Wildland Firefighter is more than a job; it is a commitment to the environment and public safety. If you have the endurance, the drive, and the skills to contribute to our mission, apply today via the official USAJOBS platform.
Why This Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Crew) Job Matters
Join the front lines of fire management: Serve as a Wildland Firefighter with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service in the heart of Arizona's rugged landscapes.
Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Crew) Job Overview
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service is seeking dedicated individuals to join our Fuels Crew in Whiteriver, Arizona. This permanent seasonal role is essential to our mission of maintaining fire-resilient landscapes across public and tribal lands. You will work on an engine crew, engage in specialized fire suppression operations, and develop critical technical skills in wildland fire management. This position offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a physically demanding, high-stakes, and rewarding environment while serving the public interest.
Requirements for Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Crew)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must be under age 37 at the time of appointment (unless meeting specific exceptions).
- Must possess a valid state driver's license.
- Must pass a pre-employment medical examination.
- Must pass a work capacity (fitness) test for arduous positions.
- Must be able to successfully complete a background investigation and drug testing.
- Must be able to work irregular hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- Must be willing to engage in extended travel (approx. 50% of the time).
Preferred Qualifications for Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Crew)
- Experience in wildland fire suppression and engine crew operations.
- Knowledge of fire ecology, fire behavior, and prescribed fire methodologies.
- Demonstrated ability to perform physically demanding tasks in extreme terrain and weather.
- Proficiency in operating fire communication equipment and specialized tools.
- Experience with hazardous material incident control.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal career-seasonal employment status.
- ✓Access to comprehensive federal health and life insurance programs.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Firefighter retirement system (enhanced annuity).
- ✓Paid on-the-job training and professional development.
- ✓Opportunities for recurring seasonal employment.
💡 How to Apply Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Crew) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Crew) Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS website.
- Review the specific eligibility criteria for the Fuels Crew position.
- Prepare a federal-style resume (max 2 pages) detailing work experience, hours worked, and specific duties.
- Gather required documentation, including transcripts and proof of age (e.g., driver's license, SF-50).
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire linked within the application portal.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of July 29, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise and focused on the requirements; do not exceed two pages.
- Ensure your resume includes start and end dates (mm/yy) for all employment.
- Check for your confirmation email immediately after submission.
- Be proactive about gathering official transcripts early to avoid missing the deadline.
- Clearly highlight your specialized experience in fire-related duties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'permanent seasonal' mean?
It means you are a permanent employee but work for a specific period of the year (usually at least 6 months) based on fire season needs and funding. You are placed in non-pay status when work is unavailable.
Are veterans' preference points applicable here?
No, this position is being filled under Direct Hire Authority, which does not utilize traditional veterans' preference ranking.
Is telework available for this position?
No, this role requires physical presence on the front lines and is not suitable for telework.
Job from Office Of The Secretary Of The Interior
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service, part of the Department of the Interior, is dedicated to maintaining fire-resilient landscapes across 500 million acres of public and tribal land. We coordinate national fire management programs, ensuring that our ecosystems remain healthy and our communities stay safe from the threat of catastrophic wildfire.