Become a Leader in Fire Management: Supervisory Wildland Firefighter
Are you ready to take your career to the front lines of wildland fire management? The U.S. Wildland Fire Service is looking for a seasoned professional to join the team in Marblemount, Washington. This role is not just a job—it is a critical leadership position tasked with protecting our nation’s most valuable resources while managing complex, high-pressure environments.
Job Responsibilities
As a WFM Lead, your days will be as dynamic as the fire itself. You will:
- Supervise fire crews in rugged, mountainous terrain.
- Plan and execute prescribed burns and fuel management projects.
- Direct suppression tactics on active wildfires, including building fire lines and implementing mopping-up procedures.
- Operate and maintain specialized equipment, from command vehicles to fire engines.
- Make real-time, high-stakes decisions based on evolving situational awareness.
Requirements
This position is rigorous and requires a high level of qualification and physical fitness.
| Requirement | Standard |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | Under 37 (with veteran/prior service exceptions) |
| NWCG Certs | CRWB, ICT4, FIRB required |
| Physicality | Arduous-level Work Capacity Test |
| Experience | Min 1 year specialized at GS-07 equivalent |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $75,999 to $98,795 per year. Relocation incentives and moving expense entitlements are available for qualified candidates on a case-by-case basis.
Benefits
Employees enjoy full federal benefits, including:
- Medical and insurance coverage.
- Retirement and thrift savings plans.
- Opportunities for professional development in incident management.
- Access to diverse, rewarding work environments across the U.S.
Application Tips
- Your Resume Matters: Stick to the 2-page limit. If it’s over two pages, it won’t be read.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure your IQCS Master Record is ready. Missing documents lead to automatic disqualification.
- Be Specific: When describing your experience, detail the exact duties that prove you can lead in a fire management setting.
The role of a Supervisory Wildland Firefighter is demanding, but the impact is unmatched. If you meet the criteria and have the drive to lead in the field, apply today via USAJOBS.
Why This Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Wfm Lead) Job Matters
Take command in the heart of the Pacific Northwest and lead high-stakes wildland fire operations as a Supervisory Wildland Firefighter.
Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Wfm Lead) Job Overview
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service is seeking a dedicated leader for a Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (WFM Lead) position in the rugged terrain of Marblemount, Washington. This role is pivotal in managing prescribed fire projects and direct wildfire suppression tactics. You will be responsible for leading specialized modules, ensuring the safety of your crew, and implementing complex fire management strategies in one of the most challenging environments in the country.
Requirements for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Wfm Lead)
- Maximum entry age of 37 (unless a preference eligible veteran or meeting specific prior service criteria).
- Must meet minimum IFPM qualification standards.
- Prior experience in wildland firefighting is mandatory.
- Possession of NWCG Red Card qualifications: Crew Boss (CRWB), Incident Commander Type 4 (ICT4), and Firing Boss (FIRB).
- Must pass the arduous-level Work Capacity Test.
- Minimum one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-07 level.
- Ability to work in remote, mountainous terrain with extreme weather conditions.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Wfm Lead)
- Proven experience leading fire modules or crews in complex tactical scenarios.
- Expertise in fuel management and mechanical/biological treatment projects.
- Strong technical competence in operating and maintaining specialized fire equipment and vehicles.
- Superior interpersonal skills to manage diverse team dynamics and external stakeholders.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary package.
- ✓Relocation incentive or recruitment incentive potential (case-by-case).
- ✓Entitlements for moving expenses (PCS) for eligible candidates.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package including health insurance and retirement.
- ✓Professional development and leadership training opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Wfm Lead) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Wfm Lead) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the specific eligibility criteria provided in the job announcement.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload a federal resume that is two pages or fewer, including specific dates, hours worked, and duties.
- Submit required documentation, including IQCS Master Record, proof of age, and SF-50s if applicable.
- Confirm submission by checking your email for the acknowledgement notice.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the 2-page limit and 0.5-inch margins.
- Quantify your experience; state exactly how many hours per week you worked in each role.
- Check for your IQCS Master Record early, as it is mandatory for verification.
- Be precise when describing your fire management duties to ensure HR can validate your specialized experience.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical glitches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum entry age for this position?
The maximum entry age is 37. Exceptions exist for preference-eligible veterans and individuals with qualifying prior federal primary firefighter service.
Is this position eligible for remote work?
No, this position is field-based and requires physical presence in Marblemount, Washington; it is not suitable for telework.
What is the specialized experience requirement?
You must have at least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-07 grade level in federal wildland fire control, suppression, or prevention.
Job from Office Of The Secretary Of The Interior
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS), under the Department of the Interior, is the backbone of federal fire management. Managing over 500 million acres of public and tribal lands, the agency coordinates fire prevention, suppression, and landscape resilience efforts nationwide. Working here means joining a community dedicated to safety, stewardship, and tactical excellence.