Become a Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Specialist) with the USDA Forest Service
The USDA Forest Service is seeking dedicated professionals for the position of Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Specialist). If you possess the experience to handle complex fire management operations and are passionate about protecting our nation’s forests, this role offers an exceptional career path. As a specialist, you will play a vital role in balancing fire prevention with environmental stewardship.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will work within a field-based fire management organization. Primary duties include:
- Developing and executing prescribed burn plans.
- Monitoring fire effects and behavior.
- Planning and implementing mechanical and manual fuels treatments.
- Prioritizing fire prevention projects based on fuel conditions and environmental data.
Requirements
Candidates must meet stringent federal hiring requirements:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Ability to pass an arduous-level Work Capacity Test.
- Prior wildland fire experience.
- Specific NWCG core requirements, including RXB2 certification.
- Ability to undergo background investigations and random drug testing.
Comparison: Grade Levels
| Feature | GW-08 | GW-09 |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | 1 year at GW-07 level | 1 year at GW-08 level |
| Primary Focus | Operational support & basic planning | Complex plan development & strategy |
| Promotion Potential | To GW-09 | N/A |
Salary Overview
The salary range for these positions is $67,617 – $94,687 annually, depending on experience and location. Pay rates are determined by locality pay scales and individual qualifications.
Benefits
- Comprehensive Health and Life Insurance.
- Federal Retirement Programs (CSRS/FERS).
- Recruitment and Relocation Incentives for qualified candidates.
- Professional development and career advancement opportunities.
Application Tips
- Respect the Resume Limit: Keep your resume under two pages. This is a hard requirement for the Forest Service.
- Documentation is Key: Attach your full IQCS Master Record. Without proof of your certifications, your application will not be considered.
- Early Submission: Don't wait until the final hour; connectivity issues during peak times can impact your ability to apply.
This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the health of our American landscapes. If you meet the criteria and are ready for the challenge, apply today to join the USDA Forest Service.
Why This Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Specialist) Job Matters
Protect our nation's most magnificent landscapes while advancing your career in fire science and wildland management with the USDA Forest Service.
Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Specialist) Job Overview
The USDA Forest Service is seeking skilled Wildland Firefighters (Fuels Specialists) to join our team across multiple locations. In this critical role, you will lead efforts in prescribed fire implementation, hazardous fuels reduction, and complex fire management strategy. You will serve as a key technical authority within the fire management organization, utilizing your expertise to protect natural resources and community safety through both mechanical and operational fire treatments.
Requirements for Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Specialist)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening and random drug testing.
- Must pass the arduous-level Work Capacity Test (WCT).
- Registration with Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Prior wildland firefighting experience is required for this secondary position.
- Must provide documented proof of NWCG qualifications (RXB2 and one of the following: ENGB, CRWB, HMGB, FELB, or HEQB).
- Commitment to a 1-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Specialist)
- Experience developing and executing complex prescribed burning plans for varied fuel types.
- Expertise in analyzing weather and on-the-ground fuel conditions to inform strategy.
- Demonstrated ability to mentor teams and prioritize objectives within high-stakes fire environments.
- Advanced graduate-level education in forestry, agriculture, or range management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and non-competitive promotion
- ✓Access to government housing in select locations
- ✓Federal retirement coverage under CSRS or FERS (as applicable)
💡 How to Apply Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Specialist) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildland Firefighter (Fuels Specialist) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully before applying.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit.
- Gather your IQCS Master Record or equivalent documentation demonstrating your required certifications.
- Submit your application through the official federal staffing portal by 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date.
- Complete the mandatory assessment questionnaire.
- Monitor your status via your federal applicant account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; exceeding this will result in immediate disqualification.
- Clearly articulate your fire management experience, specifically highlighting your work as a burn boss or in fire suppression.
- Double-check that your IQCS records are legible and attached to your application package.
- Start your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues with the online portal.
- If you require a reasonable accommodation for the application process, contact the Agency representative well before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum length of my resume?
Your resume must not exceed two pages. Applications with resumes longer than two pages will be removed from consideration.
Do I need to maintain current NWCG certifications to apply?
Currency of NWCG qualifications is not required at the time of selection, but you must provide proof that you have been fully qualified in the past and can regain currency within one year of hiring.
How do I prove my fire management certifications?
You must attach your IQCS Master Record or equivalent signed Agency Certified task book. Do not attach red cards, as they are not accepted as valid documentation.
Is government housing available?
Yes, in certain remote locations, government housing and federal day care facilities may be available.
What is the Work Capacity Test?
It is a rigorous physical fitness test required for those participating in wildland fire activities at an arduous level.
Job from Forest Service
The Forest Service manages over 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of these lands for present and future generations. Employees at the Forest Service tackle some of the nation’s most challenging environmental tasks, ranging from research in fire behavior to active suppression and fuels management.