Become an Air Tactical Group Supervisor: A Career with the U.S. Forest Service
The United States Forest Service is seeking dedicated professionals to join their firefighting ranks as an Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS). This is a premier career opportunity for experienced fire managers looking to make a significant impact on landscape-level wildfire suppression. As an ATGS, you are the eyes in the sky, orchestrating complex aerial operations during critical incidents.
Job Responsibilities
The ATGS is responsible for the overall coordination of air tactical operations. Key duties include:
- Aerial Supervision: Directing air assets during initial and extended attacks.
- Mission Planning: Evaluating aircraft requirements, briefing pilots, and navigating complex airspace.
- Safety Oversight: Monitoring pilot flight hours, enforcing safety protocols, and managing retardant and foam drop restrictions.
- Communication: Acting as the link between ground personnel and aviation assets to ensure tactical effectiveness.
Requirements
To be considered for this high-responsibility role, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must hold current NWCG Division/Group Supervisor (DIVS) or Incident Commander Type 3 (ICT3) certifications.
- Must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Must pass the Work Capacity Test.
- Must be willing to live and work in the Southwestern Region (Region 3).
Salary and Comparison Table
Salaries for this position range from $67,617 to $94,687, depending on the duty location and locality pay adjustments.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $67,617 - $94,687 |
| Series | 0456 (Wildland Fire Management) |
| Hiring Authority | Direct-Hire Authority |
| Travel Required | Yes (Frequent) |
Benefits
Employees enjoy robust federal benefits, including:
- Comprehensive health insurance options.
- Competitive retirement plans (FERS/CSRS).
- Generous leave accrual programs.
- Career advancement potential.
Application Tips
- Resume Precision: Keep your resume strictly under two pages to meet agency requirements.
- Documentation: Ensure your IQCS Master Record is attached to prove your qualifications.
- Formatting: Use common formats like PDF or Word. Avoid 'Adobe Portfolios.'
- Engagement: Follow all instructions in the announcement to avoid being screened out for errors.
Serving as an Air Tactical Group Supervisor is more than a job; it is a commitment to the safety of our nation's wildlands. If you possess the required incident command experience and are ready for the challenge, apply today to start your journey with the U.S. Forest Service.
Why This Wildland Firefighter (Air Tactical Group Supervisor Atgs) Job Matters
Take your wildland firefighting career to new heights as an Air Tactical Group Supervisor with the U.S. Forest Service.
Wildland Firefighter (Air Tactical Group Supervisor Atgs) Job Overview
The U.S. Forest Service is seeking a skilled professional to serve as an Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS). In this high-stakes role, you will act as the primary aerial supervisor, coordinating air tactical operations for wildland fire suppression across National Forest lands. This position is vital for managing aircraft needs, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and establishing tactical priorities during initial and extended attack incidents.
Requirements for Wildland Firefighter (Air Tactical Group Supervisor Atgs)
- U.S. Citizenship or National status.
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must pass a pre-employment and random drug testing.
- Must successfully complete the Work Capacity Test.
- Must possess one year of specialized experience at the equivalent grade level (GW-07 or GW-08) within the Federal service.
- Must hold valid NWCG Core Requirements: Division/Group Supervisor (DIVS) OR Incident Commander Type 3 (ICT3).
- Must provide the most recent IQCS master record or signed Agency Certified task book.
Preferred Qualifications for Wildland Firefighter (Air Tactical Group Supervisor Atgs)
- Extensive experience in air tactical fire suppression operations.
- Proficiency in contract management, aviation training, and safety program support.
- Proven track record in coordinating multi-agency aviation resources.
- Demonstrated ability to function effectively in remote and unpredictable environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Federal retirement coverage (Civil Service Retirement System or Federal Employees Retirement System)
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
- ✓Access to federal housing and daycare facilities in certain locations
💡 How to Apply Wildland Firefighter (Air Tactical Group Supervisor Atgs) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildland Firefighter (Air Tactical Group Supervisor Atgs) Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
- Log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online Assessment Questionnaire.
- Upload a resume (strictly limited to two pages).
- Submit all required documentation, including your IQCS Master Record.
- Verify that all documents are under 5MB and in an acceptable format (e.g., PDF, JPG, TXT).
- Click 'Apply' to finalize your submission before the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the major duties listed in the announcement.
- Do not exceed the two-page limit for your resume, as this will lead to disqualification.
- Confirm your IQCS documentation is up-to-date and clearly demonstrates your IFPM qualification.
- Apply well before the closing date to avoid potential technical issues.
- Ensure all uploaded files are readable and not in an 'Adobe Portfolio' format.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an Air Tactical Group Supervisor do?
An ATGS serves as the tactical lead for aerial firefighting operations. They coordinate aircraft missions, manage air space, and communicate tactical priorities to ground crews and pilots.
Is this position remote?
The position is not remote in the sense of 'work-from-home.' The location is negotiable within the Southwestern Region (Region 3), provided the candidate resides within 49 miles of a Forest Service office.
Are there specific retirement benefits for this role?
Yes, this position is a secondary wildland fire position covered under special retirement provisions (5 USC 8336(c) or 5 USC 8412(d)).
What is the primary location for this job?
*A: The location is negotiable within Region 3 (Southwestern Region) near a Forest Service office.*
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: Relocation incentives may be authorized by the hiring official at the time of the job offer.*
Job from Forest Service
The USDA Forest Service manages 193 million acres of National Forests and Grasslands. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. Working with the Forest Service means taking on an awesome responsibility with limitless rewards.