Become a Wildland Firefighter Training Specialist with the USDA Forest Service
Are you looking to transition your field experience into a leadership role that directly impacts fire safety across the United States? The USDA Forest Service is currently hiring for Wildland Firefighter positions specializing in Fire, Fuels, and Aviation Management. This is a unique, mission-critical role designed for experienced firefighters ready to influence the systems, training, and curricula that keep our wildlands safe.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will act as a program leader and subject matter expert. Your core duties include:
- Developing and refining firefighting training curricula.
- Serving as an overhead team member on active project wildfires.
- Coordinating aviation and incident management operations.
- Analyzing training needs for regional and local fire management teams.
- Mentoring the next generation of fire and aviation professionals.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must meet stringent federal standards, including:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Proven prior wildland firefighting experience.
- Successful passage of the Work Capacity Test.
- A maximum two-page resume.
- Ability to pass pre-employment and random drug testing.
Grade Level Comparison
| Qualification Factor | GW-08 Requirements | GW-09 Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Specialized Experience | 1 year at GW-07 level | 1 year at GW-08 level |
| Graduate Education | 2 full years related masters | 2 full years related masters |
| Primary Function | Assist in training materials | Instruct safety & curriculum |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $67,617 to $94,687 per year, depending on the specific location and the candidate's qualifications. As a federal position, you will also benefit from standard locality pay adjustments.
Benefits
- Comprehensive federal retirement plans (CSRS/FERS).
- Full health and life insurance options.
- Extensive training and professional development opportunities.
- Potential relocation incentives for qualified candidates.
Application Tips
- Respect the Page Limit: The two-page resume requirement is absolute. Do not exceed it.
- Documentation: Ensure all transcripts are legible and clearly labeled.
- Early Submission: Don't wait until the final hour; submit early to account for potential system delays.
This role is an ideal step for dedicated professionals who have served on the fire line and now wish to help modernize and improve the way the Forest Service operates. If you are ready to serve the public interest while advancing your career, apply today.
Why This Wildland Firefighter (Fire, Fuels, And/Or Aviation Management Training) Job Matters
Shape the future of forest health and aviation safety as a Wildland Firefighter training specialist with the USDA Forest Service.
Wildland Firefighter (Fire, Fuels, And/Or Aviation Management Training) Job Overview
The USDA Forest Service is seeking dedicated professionals to serve as Program Leaders and Training Specialists in Fire, Fuels, and Aviation Management. This role is pivotal in shaping the next generation of firefighters by developing curriculum, leading instructional programs, and coordinating aviation operations. If you are passionate about wildland fire management and ready to make a significant impact on national fire safety standards, this is a unique opportunity to join a mission-driven team.
Requirements for Wildland Firefighter (Fire, Fuels, And/Or Aviation Management Training)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must pass a drug test and participate in random testing programs.
- Prior wildland firefighting experience is mandatory.
- Must pass the Work Capacity Test (WCT).
- Subject to background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Resume must not exceed two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Wildland Firefighter (Fire, Fuels, And/Or Aviation Management Training)
- Experience in developing wildland firefighting training materials.
- Background in instructional design or leading fire prevention and suppression programs.
- Expertise in fire-related aviation or incident management operations.
- Academic background in forestry, range management, or agricultural science.
- Graduate-level education in fields directly related to fire and aviation management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal Retirement Benefits (CSRS/FERS)
- ✓Comprehensive Health and Life Insurance
- ✓Paid Federal Holidays and Leave
- ✓Career Development and Promotion Potential
- ✓Potential Recruitment or Relocation Incentives
- ✓Available Government Housing in select locations
💡 How to Apply Wildland Firefighter (Fire, Fuels, And/Or Aviation Management Training) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildland Firefighter (Fire, Fuels, And/Or Aviation Management Training) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully on the official government portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, highlighting your specialized fire management experience.
- Gather necessary documentation, including academic transcripts if using education to qualify.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire through the official portal.
- Submit your application and required documents electronically before the closing date.
- Monitor your application status through the online portal.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; any submission exceeding two pages will be automatically disqualified.
- Be specific about your work schedule, hours per week, and dates of employment for every role listed.
- If applying online causes technical hardships, reach out to the contact center well before the deadline.
- Ensure all uploaded documents are under 5MB and in supported formats like PDF, TXT, or DOC.
- Double-check that all required documents transferred correctly from your profile to the application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is prior experience required for this role?
Yes, this position serves as a secondary firefighter role and explicitly requires prior wildland firefighting experience.
What is the promotion potential?
This position offers promotion potential up to the GW-09 grade level, depending on successful completion of requirements.
Are there specific requirements for the resume?
Yes, resumes must not exceed two pages. Submissions exceeding this limit will be removed from consideration.
Is government housing available?
*A: In some locations, government housing and federal day care may be available.*
Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?
*A: Yes, this position is open to the public.*
Job from Forest Service
The Forest Service manages 193 million acres of National Forest and Grassland. From world-class research to active fire management, our employees are the backbone of environmental stewardship in America. A career with us is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the long-term health of our nation’s most magnificent landscapes.