Become a Leader in Wildland Fire Management
Are you ready to take the helm on the front lines of fire defense? The U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS) is currently seeking dedicated, experienced, and safety-conscious leaders to fill the role of Supervisory Wildland Firefighter. With openings in Hines and Vale, Oregon, this is a unique opportunity to serve in a critical role that directly impacts the preservation of our nation's public and tribal lands.
Job Responsibilities
As a Supervisory Wildland Firefighter, your impact goes beyond individual suppression—you are a mentor and a strategist. Key duties include:
- Leadership & Supervision: You will oversee multiple supervisory staff and provide second-level management for field crews.
- Strategic Execution: You will analyze fire behavior, topography, and weather to direct resources on the fireline. During complex incidents, you will serve as a lead tactical decision-maker.
- Operational Readiness: You are responsible for ensuring that all suppression equipment and personnel are deployment-ready at all times.
- Mentorship: A core component of this role involves teaching subordinates safe and effective firefighting techniques.
Qualifications & Requirements
To be considered for this high-stakes role, applicants must meet strict criteria set by the Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) standards.
| Requirement Type | Essential Criteria |
|---|---|
| Basic Experience | One full fire season or 14+ days of fireline experience |
| IFPM Pathway 1 | Task Force Leader (TFLD) + ICT3 or RXB2 |
| IFPM Pathway 2 | Helibase Manager (HEBM) + ICT3 |
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizen or National |
Salary & Benefits Overview
The position offers a competitive salary ranging from $78,166 to $101,609 per year. Beyond the pay, you will have access to the robust federal benefits package. Furthermore, this position is authorized for basic moving expense reimbursement, and recruitment or relocation incentives may be offered on a case-by-case basis.
Application Tips
Success starts with a precise application. Your resume must be no longer than two pages and must include specific month/year dates for all employment, as well as the number of hours worked per week. Remember to include your IQCS Master Record, as this is the only acceptable proof of your NWCG incident management qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does this position allow for telework?
Due to the physical nature of fire management, this position is generally not telework-eligible, except in emergency circumstances.
Is drug testing required?
Yes, you must pass a pre-appointment drug screening, and the position is subject to random testing.
If you have the leadership skills and fireline experience required to manage complex wildland operations, the U.S. Wildland Fire Service wants to hear from you. Secure your legacy in public service by applying to this essential role before the deadline on August 31, 2026.
Why This Supervisory Wildland Firefighter Job Matters
Take command of the fireline and lead critical wildland fire operations 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 experienced professionals to serve as Supervisory Wildland Firefighters in Hines and Vale, Oregon. This vital role involves providing leadership, directing fire suppression operations, and ensuring the safety and readiness of fire crews across diverse and challenging environments. As a key fire management position, you will utilize your expertise to protect public lands, analyze complex fire behavior, and mentor the next generation of firefighting talent.
Requirements for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a valid state driver's license.
- Must pass a pre-appointment drug test and be subject to ongoing random testing.
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12-31-59.
- Meet specific IFPM qualifications: Task Force Leader (TFLD) with either Incident Commander Type 3 (ICT3) or Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 2 (RXB2), OR Helibase Manager (HEBM) with Incident Commander Type 3 (ICT3).
- Documented prior primary wildland firefighting experience (minimum one full fire season or 14 cumulative days of fireline experience).
- Successful completion of a background investigation for federal suitability.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter
- Extensive experience supervising wildland fire modules in suppression, prevention, or control efforts.
- Strong proficiency in predicting fire behavior and managing resource allocation for complex incident strategies.
- Demonstrated ability to mentor and instruct subordinate personnel in high-pressure environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary package.
- ✓Relocation incentive eligibility (case-by-case basis).
- ✓Basic moving expenses reimbursement for eligible applicants.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits eligibility.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Wildland Firefighter Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the application questionnaire and eligibility requirements.
- Prepare a federal-style resume (max 2 pages) detailing dates, hours worked, and specific fire-related duties.
- Upload required documentation, including your IQCS Master Record to prove IFPM qualifications and any applicable SF-50 forms.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of August 31, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly mentions 'full-time' or 'part-time' with hours per week to receive proper credit.
- Double-check that your IQCS Master Record is attached; without it, you will be rated as ineligible.
- Use clear, chronological formatting for your employment history.
- Proofread your application to ensure it meets the strict 10-point font and 0.5-inch margin requirements.
- Focus on describing your specific, hands-on fireline experience rather than just administrative duties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is education required for this grade level?
No, there is no qualifying education requirement for the 0456 series at the GW-10 grade level; this position is strictly experience-based.
What physical demands should I expect?
The role requires arduous exertion, including long periods of walking, running, carrying over 50 pounds, and operating in extreme temperatures and steep terrain.
Can I apply if I am not a current federal employee?
Yes, this is a public-facing announcement and individuals without prior federal service who meet the specialized experience requirements are encouraged to apply.
Job from Office Of The Secretary Of The Interior
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service, an integral part of the Department of the Interior (DOI), is responsible for responding to wildfires and fostering fire-resilient landscapes across more than 500 million acres of land. The agency coordinates nationwide fire management, working in close partnership with the USDA Forest Service, state agencies, and tribal organizations to ensure a unified approach to fire safety and ecosystem health.