Lead the Charge: Supervisory Wildland Fire Fighter Opportunity in South Carolina

Are you ready to take the next step in your wildland firefighting career? The U.S. Forest Service is currently recruiting a motivated leader to fill a Supervisory Wildland Fire Fighter (Fire Engine Operator) role in the beautiful Francis Marion and Sumter National Forest in Huger, South Carolina. This position is perfect for experienced professionals who thrive in high-pressure environments, value team leadership, and are committed to the stewardship of our nation's forests.

Job Responsibilities

As a supervisor on a High Complexity Fire Engine Module, you will:

Lead Suppression Efforts: Manage wildland fire engine positioning and tactical operations.
Incident Command: Serve as an Incident Commander, evaluating fire behavior, weather, and topography to make life-saving decisions.
Training and Mentoring: Conduct performance critiques and provide technical guidance to crew members at the GW-04/05 level.
Interagency Coordination: Work alongside local, state, and federal agencies to manage urban interface and wildland incidents.
Ecosystem Support: Direct project work including prescribed fire activities and hazard management.

Requirements

This position requires significant operational experience and specialized qualifications. You must:

Hold current NWCG certifications for Engine Boss (ENGB) and Incident Commander Type 4 (ICT4).
Pass the Arduous-level Work Capacity Test (WCT).
Meet federal age and drug testing requirements.
Submit valid IQCS documentation proof.

Salary and Benefits

Category	Details
Salary Range	$62,570 - $87,899 per year
Position Type	Permanent (Career Transition/Internal)
Retirement	Special Firefighter Retirement (5 USC 8336/8412)
Incentives	Potential Relocation/Recruitment incentives

Application Tips

Watch the Resume Length: Keep it strictly under two pages.
Documentation is Key: Attach your IQCS records. Red cards are not accepted as proof.
Clarity: Ensure your resume highlights your leadership roles and specific fire experience.

This role offers a unique opportunity to lead, mentor, and protect. If you possess the required skills and are ready to serve, we encourage you to review the application instructions and submit your packet today.

Why This Supervisory Wildland Fire Fighter (Fire Engine Operator) Job Matters

Take command of the front lines—lead a high-complexity fire engine module and protect our nation’s most valuable forest landscapes.

Supervisory Wildland Fire Fighter (Fire Engine Operator) Job Overview

The U.S. Forest Service is seeking a dedicated, experienced professional to serve as a Supervisory Wildland Fire Fighter in Huger, South Carolina. This high-stakes role centers on leading a fire engine module, managing complex wildland fire suppression, and executing prescribed fire operations. You will provide critical leadership, ensure crew safety, and collaborate with federal, state, and local partners to manage ecosystem health within the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forest.

Requirements for Supervisory Wildland Fire Fighter (Fire Engine Operator)

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Must be 18 years of age.
Must pass a pre-employment and random drug screening.
Must pass the Arduous-level Work Capacity Test (WCT).
Must meet specific age requirements (under 37, or qualified veteran/federal status).
Must possess valid ENGB (Engine Boss) and ICT4 (Incident Commander Type 4) qualifications.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must successfully complete a one-year supervisory/managerial probationary period.

Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Wildland Fire Fighter (Fire Engine Operator)

Proven experience as an Incident Commander on wildland or urban interface incidents.
Demonstrated ability to develop burn plans and manage ecosystem projects.
Strong background in multi-agency collaboration for search and rescue or hazardous materials response.
Ability to mentor and evaluate crew performance in high-pressure field environments.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal retirement benefits under special firefighter retirement provisions.
✓Career development and promotion opportunities.
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
✓Access to federal government housing and day care facilities (where available).
✓Comprehensive federal health and leave benefits.

💡 How to Apply Supervisory Wildland Fire Fighter (Fire Engine Operator) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Supervisory Wildland Fire Fighter (Fire Engine Operator) Job

Review the full announcement carefully before applying.
Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
Gather supporting documents, including your IQCS Master Record or signed Agency Certified task book.
Complete the online Assessment Questionnaire via the link provided.
Ensure all documents are uploaded in approved formats (PDF, JPG, etc.) and under 5MB.
Submit your application electronically by 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Your resume must explicitly link your past experience to the major duties listed in the announcement.
Do not include sensitive information or use Adobe Portfolio files.
Ensure your IQCS Master Record or certification documents are current; red cards are not sufficient.
Double-check your application for completeness; errors or omissions will result in disqualification.
If you require a reasonable accommodation, reach out to the agency contact well before the deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum page length for the resume?

Your resume must not exceed two pages. Applications with resumes exceeding this limit will be removed from consideration.

Are education degrees a substitute for experience?

No, there is no substitution of education for the specialized experience required for this position.

What are the age requirements for this role?

You must generally be under 37 years of age, though exceptions exist for individuals with previous permanent federal firefighter service or those with veteran preference status.

Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?

*A: This announcement is primarily open to current permanent Forest Service employees with competitive status.*

What happens if I am not current on my NWCG qualifications?

*A: You must provide evidence that you were qualified in the past and can regain currency within one year.*

Job from Forest Service

The Forest Service manages over 193 million acres of public land. Working here means more than just having a job; it means serving the public, protecting our natural resources, and managing complex fire environments. We are a team committed to mutual respect, integrity, and operational excellence.