Become a Leader on the Frontlines: Supervisory Wildland Firefighter Roles
The USDA Forest Service is calling for highly skilled, mission-driven individuals to serve as Supervisory Wildland Firefighters. This career is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the stewardship of over 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. If you have the expertise to manage fire suppression crews under extreme conditions, we invite you to apply.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will lead a 10-20 person handcrew, making critical technical decisions in high-stress, rapidly changing fire environments. Key responsibilities include:
- Tactical Management: Directing crew deployment and fire suppression strategy.
- Administrative Leadership: Managing training, property inventory, and crew safety.
- Fire Planning: Collaborating on prescribed burn projects to enhance forest health.
- Communication: Coordinating across agencies during wildfire incidents.
Requirements
To ensure safety and efficiency, applicants must meet strict criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship or National status.
- Age: Must meet the requirements for primary firefighter retirement.
- Certification: You must hold primary NWCG core certifications, specifically Crew Boss (CRWB) and Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5).
- Physicality: Must pass the Arduous-level Work Capacity Test.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary structure ranging from $62,570 to $87,899 annually. Exact pay varies based on the locality of the assigned unit and the grade level achieved.
| Level | Grade | Responsibility Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Entry/Mid | GW-07 | Specialized Suppression Experience |
| Full Performance | GW-08 | Technical/Administrative Supervision |
Benefits
- Federal retirement under special provisions for firefighters.
- Access to government housing in remote stations.
- Competitive medical and life insurance programs.
- Relocation and recruitment incentives for qualified candidates.
Application Tips
- Format Matters: Stick to a 2-page resume maximum.
- Documentation: Ensure your IQCS Master Record is attached; red cards will not be accepted.
- Proactive Contact: Use the provided regional contacts if you have specific questions about a duty station.
Serving as a Supervisory Wildland Firefighter provides the opportunity to lead crews in some of the nation's most critical environments. With clear pathways for professional development and the prestige of serving with the Forest Service, this role is ideal for dedicated fire professionals.
Why This Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Handcrew) Job Matters
Lead the frontline of wildland fire suppression and manage elite crews in some of the most beautiful and challenging environments across the United States.
Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Handcrew) Job Overview
The USDA Forest Service is seeking dedicated leaders to fill Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Handcrew) positions. This role is pivotal for fire management, where you will lead 10 to 20-person crews during suppression efforts, wildland-urban interface situations, and prescribed burn operations. If you are an experienced fire professional with strong leadership capabilities, this is your opportunity to steward our nation's natural resources.
Requirements for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Handcrew)
- U.S. Citizenship or National.
- Must be 18 years of age.
- Must meet age requirements for primary firefighter retirement (under age 37, or specific veteran/federal service exceptions).
- Successfully completed NWCG Crew Boss (CRWB) and Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5).
- Must pass the Arduous-level Work Capacity Test.
- Submission of IQCS Master Record or equivalent as proof of certifications.
- Must pass pre-employment drug screening and background check.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12-31-59.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Handcrew)
- Experience equivalent to one year at the next lower grade level.
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate resources, equipment, and tactical fire suppression strategies.
- Prior experience in leading specialized fire crews (Hotshot, Helitack, or Engines).
- Proficiency in developing and implementing prescribed burn plans.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (5 USC 8336(c) or 8412(d)).
- ✓Direct deposit of pay.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and promotion.
- ✓Government housing availability in certain locations.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Handcrew) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Handcrew) Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Gather your IQCS Master Record and supporting documents.
- Complete the online application and assessment questionnaire through the provided portal.
- Submit all required documents electronically before the closing date.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit.
- Clearly document your specific fire experience, including dates, hours, and responsibilities.
- Verify your IQCS records are up to date and attached, as they are mandatory.
- Contact regional representatives early if you have questions about specific locations.
- Use the 'Apply' button early to avoid technical issues at the closing deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is education a substitute for experience?
No, there is no substitution of education for the specialized experience required for this position.
What happens if I exceed the two-page resume limit?
Resumes exceeding two pages will lead to removal from consideration.
Do I need to maintain NWCG qualification currency for selection?
Currency is not required for selection, but you must provide evidence you were fully qualified in the past and can regain currency within one year of hiring.
Job from Forest Service
As a department under the USDA, the Forest Service manages vast natural resources, conducts vital scientific research, and supports state and private forestry initiatives. Employees here are part of a team dedicated to preserving the landscape for future generations while managing the complex challenges of wildland-urban interface areas.