Embark on a Rewarding Career as a Wildland Firefighter
Are you looking for a career that combines physical rigor with the noble mission of land stewardship? The USDA Forest Service is currently hiring a Wildland Firefighter focusing on Fuels Management in Quemado, New Mexico. This position offers a unique chance to work in one of the most stunning landscapes in the Southwest while serving the American public.
Job Responsibilities
As a Fuels Management Firefighter, your daily life will be far from routine. Key responsibilities include:
- Prescribed Fire Implementation: Assisting in the preparation, ignition, holding, and mop-up phases of prescribed burns.
- Fuels Reduction: Actively participating in projects to reduce hazardous fuel loads to mitigate future wildfire risks.
- Data Collection: Performing field reconnaissance and inventorying fuel beds to guide future management plans.
- Technical Support: Providing guidance on fire protection and prevention to local teams.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet several specific federal criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Successful passage of the Arduous Work Capacity Test (WCT).
- Valid documentation of IFPM/FS-FPM qualifications.
- Prior experience in wildland fire suppression.
- Submission of a two-page maximum resume.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Feature | GW-05 | GW-06 | GW-07 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Entry | Intermediate | Advanced |
| Core Requirements | Standard Fire Duties | FFT1 Required | FFT1 & ICT5 Required |
| Scope | Basic Suppression | Operations Support | Resource Planning |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $52,957 to $81,343 per year. Beyond the base salary, employees benefit from a robust federal compensation package, including health insurance, retirement planning through the FERS system, and potential relocation incentives. Government housing may be available in the local area.
Application Tips
- Watch the Clock: The two-page limit on resumes is absolute. If you go over, your application will be removed from consideration.
- Documentation is Key: Do not simply list your skills; attach your IQCS Master Record. Without proof of certifications, you cannot be rated as eligible.
- Use the Help Desk: If you run into technical errors with the USAJobs portal, reach out to the contact provided immediately rather than waiting until the deadline.
Being a wildland firefighter is more than just a job; it is a vital service to our country. If you are ready to tackle the challenges of forest management and protect the American landscape, apply for this opportunity in Quemado today.
Why This Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Management) Job Matters
Protect our nation's most precious natural landscapes while building a high-impact career in wildland fire management with the USDA Forest Service.
Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Management) Job Overview
The USDA Forest Service is seeking a dedicated Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Management) to join our team in the Southwestern Region, based in Quemado, New Mexico. In this vital role, you will be on the front lines of fire protection, contributing to essential fuels management projects, prescribed burning efforts, and land conservation. This is an incredible opportunity to serve the public by stewarding our national forests, utilizing specialized equipment, and supporting complex incident management operations.
Requirements for Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Management)
- 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 the Work Capacity Test (Arduous level).
- Must possess prior wildland firefighting experience.
- Must be able to successfully complete a background investigation and drug testing.
- Must provide IQCS Master Record or signed Agency Certified task book.
- Must meet IFPM/FS-FPM selective placement factors for selected grade level.
Preferred Qualifications for Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Management)
- Experience in prescribed fire operations including line prep and ignition.
- Background in fuel hazard reduction projects and data collection.
- Successfully completed NWCG Core Requirements of Firefighter 1 (FFT1) and Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5).
- Educational background in Fire Science, Fire Technology, or related fields.
- Ability to work in remote and unpredictable environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (CSRS/FERS)
- ✓Opportunities for promotion potential up to GS-07
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
- ✓Access to government housing in select areas
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Paid time off and federal holidays
💡 How to Apply Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Management) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Management) Job
- Prepare a concise, two-page resume highlighting your specific fire experience.
- Gather your IQCS Master Record and any relevant training certifications.
- Create or update your USAJobs account.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit all documentation via the online portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJobs dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; submissions exceeding this will be rejected.
- Clearly document your hours worked per week and specific dates for all relevant experience.
- Attach your IQCS record; generic 'red cards' are not accepted as valid proof of certification.
- Apply early to avoid technical issues as the system nears capacity on the closing date.
- Contact the HR help desk early if you require reasonable accommodation or experience technical hardships.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of this position?
You will perform critical work in prescribed fire and fuels management, including field reconnaissance, fire monitoring, and fire suppression support.
Is the Work Capacity Test mandatory?
Yes, because this position involves active wildland firefighting, passing the Arduous-level Work Capacity Test is a strict condition of employment.
Can I apply if I am not currently fire-qualified?
You must possess the required IFPM/FS-FPM selective factors by the time of selection; however, certain currency requirements can be met within one year of hire with documented proof of past qualification.
Can I apply without prior fire experience?
No, this is a secondary firefighter position that strictly requires prior wildland firefighting experience.
Is drug testing required?
Yes, this is a drug-testing designated position subject to both pre-employment and random screenings.
Job from Forest Service
The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) is an agency of the Department of Agriculture that manages 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation's forests to meet the needs of present and future generations. Joining our team means joining a community committed to science, conservation, and emergency response.