Become a Leader in Fire Management: Supervisory Wildland Firefighter
Are you looking to elevate your career in wildland firefighting? The USDA Forest Service is currently recruiting for the position of Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (District/Zone Assistant Fire Management Officer). This is a unique opportunity for experienced professionals to step into a leadership role where they can oversee critical fire programs, coordinate emergency response, and contribute to the health of our national forests.
Job Responsibilities
As a District/Zone Assistant Fire Management Officer, you will serve as a key operational leader. Your primary duties will include:
- Operational Oversight: Managing and coordinating wildland fire suppression activities within your assigned district.
- Planning: Drafting and executing prescribed burn plans, hazardous fuels reduction strategies, and fire preparedness plans.
- Leadership: Supervising personnel in fire prevention, detection, and resource rehabilitation.
- Logistics: Coordinating with dispatch offices, managing aircraft operations, and overseeing fireline tactics.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards:
- Qualifications: You must possess one year of specialized experience at the GW-07 or GW-08 level (or equivalent) in federal service, or have completed specific graduate-level education.
- Certifications: Candidates must meet IFPM and FS-FPM selective placement factor requirements, including specific NWCG qualifications like TFLD and ICT3/RXB2.
- Physical Fitness: Passing the Arduous-level Work Capacity Test is a strict condition of employment.
- Documentation: You must provide your IQCS Master Record as proof of your certifications.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Feature | GW-08 Level | GW-09 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | 1 Year specialized (GW-07) | 1 Year specialized (GW-08) |
| Education Option | 2 years graduate study | 2 years graduate study |
| Focus | Pre-suppression & Assessment | Program Management & Planning |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $67,617 to $94,687 per year, depending on location and experience. Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy an industry-leading benefits package including:
- Full federal health and life insurance.
- Generous paid annual and sick leave.
- Participation in the federal pension system.
- Training opportunities and career mentorship.
How to Apply
Applying for a federal position requires precision. Follow these steps for success:
- Prepare Your Resume: Keep it to exactly two pages. Highlight your specific fire management skills, hours worked per week, and your specific roles in past incidents.
- Gather Proof: Ensure your IQCS Master Record is attached to your application package.
- Submit Online: Use the USAStaffing portal links provided, ensuring your documents are in a readable format (PDF or Word).
Becoming a Supervisory Wildland Firefighter is more than just a job; it is a commitment to public service and the protection of America's wilderness. With multiple locations available and a clear path for advancement, this is an ideal role for those ready to lead on the fireline. Apply today to start your next chapter with the U.S. Forest Service.
Why This Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (District/Zone Assistant Fire Management Officer) Job Matters
Take command of the front lines—the U.S. Forest Service is seeking skilled, mission-driven leaders for vital wildland fire management operations nationwide.
Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (District/Zone Assistant Fire Management Officer) Job Overview
The USDA Forest Service is hiring for the position of Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (District/Zone Assistant Fire Management Officer). This pivotal role involves providing operational oversight and tactical leadership for wildland fire suppression, prevention, prescribed burning, and hazardous fuels reduction across various national locations. Ideal candidates are seasoned fire professionals ready to manage complex fire programs and lead teams in diverse and challenging environments.
Requirements for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (District/Zone Assistant Fire Management Officer)
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Minimum 18 years of age
- Must pass the Work Capacity Test (Arduous level)
- Possess specialized fire management experience at the GW-07 or GW-08 level (or qualifying graduate education)
- Ability to maintain and provide proof of Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) and FS-FPM qualifications
- Must be able to pass a pre-employment and random drug screening
- Satisfactory background investigation and fingerprint check
- Ability to serve a 1-year supervisory probationary period
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (District/Zone Assistant Fire Management Officer)
- Primary NWCG Core Requirements of Task Force Leader (TFLD) and Secondary NWCG Core Requirements of Incident Commander Type 3 (ICT3) or Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 2 (RXB2)
- Primary NWCG Core Requirements of Helibase Manager (HEBM) and Secondary NWCG Core Requirement of Incident Commander Type 3 (ICT3)
- Demonstrated expertise in fire pre-suppression, detection, and resource management
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement pension plans
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional training and career advancement
- ✓Possible relocation or recruitment incentives for qualified candidates
- ✓Potential for government housing in specific locations
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (District/Zone Assistant Fire Management Officer) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (District/Zone Assistant Fire Management Officer) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Gather your IQCS Master Record and proof of IFPM qualifications.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire via the official portal.
- Upload all necessary documentation (transcripts, certificates, etc.) in a supported format (PDF, DOC, etc.).
- Submit your application before the deadline on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Ensure your IQCS Master Record is current; do not rely on red cards alone.
- Address all selective placement factors clearly in your resume.
- If you encounter technical issues with the application site, contact the help desk well before the deadline.
- Clearly label all attached documentation with your name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is age a factor for this position?
Because this is a secondary firefighter position, there is no maximum entry age limit.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
Applicants who submit a resume exceeding the two-page limit will be automatically removed from consideration.
Can I apply if I am not currently active in fire operations?
Yes, but you must provide documentation that you were fully qualified in the past and demonstrate the ability to regain currency within one year of hire.
Job from Forest Service
The U.S. Forest Service, an agency of the Department of Agriculture, manages over 193 million acres of public land. Their mission involves everything from timber management and ecological research to critical wildland fire suppression. Working for the Forest Service means joining a dedicated team committed to stewardship and protection.