Become a Supervisory Firefighter with the Department of the Navy
Are you a seasoned fire professional looking to transition into a high-level leadership role? The Department of the Navy is currently hiring a Supervisory Firefighter (Battalion Chief) at Naval Base Kitsap in Bangor, Washington. This position is a rare opportunity to influence emergency response strategies while managing a high-performance team in a unique federal environment.
Job Responsibilities
As the Battalion Chief, you will be the senior officer on shift, responsible for:
- Tactical Command: Directing immediate tactical responses to complex, multi-agency emergencies.
- Leadership & Coaching: Providing direct supervision and administrative oversight to station officers and firefighting crews.
- Program Management: Managing, auditing, and evaluating a key fire department program (e.g., HAZMAT, Training, or Fire Prevention).
- Stakeholder Coordination: Representing the fire department to external agencies and civilian partners to mitigate hazards.
Requirements
To qualify, you must possess the following:
| Requirement Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Experience | At least 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level. |
| Core Certifications | Firefighter I/II, Officer I/II/III, Inspector I/II, Instructor I/II. |
| Specialized Certs | Airport Firefighter & HazMat Incident Commander. |
| Medical | NREMT & BLS certification required. |
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this position ranges from $85,354 to $110,954 per year. In addition to a competitive salary, the position offers federal benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, retirement programs, and potential eligibility for relocation incentives.
Application Tips
- Keep it Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure compliance.
- Documentation is Key: Attach all your certification cards and transcripts. If your credentials are not clearly visible, your application may be rejected.
- Detail Your History: Clearly list your employment dates, hours worked, and specific series/grade if you have federal experience.
This position is more than just a job; it is a leadership role designed for those who thrive under pressure and are ready to advance the standards of fire protection. With the right qualifications and a drive to serve, you can secure a position that offers both purpose and a clear career trajectory within the federal government.
Why This Supervisory Firefighter Job Matters
Take command of fire and emergency operations in the Pacific Northwest—lead elite crews as a Supervisory Firefighter with the Department of the Navy.
Supervisory Firefighter Job Overview
The Department of the Navy is seeking a dedicated and experienced Supervisory Firefighter (Battalion Chief) to serve at Naval Base Kitsap in Bangor, Washington. In this high-stakes leadership role, you will be responsible for directing tactical emergency responses, managing complex fire department programs, and developing personnel. If you are a seasoned leader with a passion for public safety and the ability to operate effectively in high-pressure environments, this position offers a vital mission-driven career.
Requirements for Supervisory Firefighter
- At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-09 grade level or equivalent.
- Must hold certifications in Firefighter I and II, Fire Officer I, II, and III, Fire Inspector I and II, Fire Instructor I and II, Airport Firefighter, and HazMat Incident Commander.
- Current BLS (EMT-B) and National Registry Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT) certification required.
- Certifications must be accredited by DoD, IFSAC, or ProBoard.
- Must be able to pass an initial drug screening and subsequent random testing.
- Ability to work an uncommon tour, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Firefighter
- Demonstrated experience in directing multi-agency emergency operations.
- Strong background in administrative oversight and professional development of personnel.
- Proven expertise in managing departmental programs such as HAZMAT, training, or logistics.
- Success in building and maintaining operational relationships with mutual aid partners.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package.
- ✓Professional development and continuous training opportunities.
- ✓Relocation incentive eligibility may be available.
- ✓Meaningful work supporting the Navy and Marine Corps mission.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Firefighter Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Firefighter Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly no more than 2 pages, detailing relevant experience with hours worked per week, pay plan, and grade.
- Upload all required documentation, including proof of certifications (DoD, IFSAC, or ProBoard) and current EMT credentials.
- Submit your application via the online portal before the closing date of October 28, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS applicant portal.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required information is captured in the correct format.
- Explicitly state your employment dates (month/year) and hours worked to demonstrate your specialized experience.
- Redact sensitive personal information like Social Security Numbers before uploading documents, as required.
- Ensure all certifications are legible and clearly labeled to avoid an ineligible rating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of clearance is required for this role?
This position requires the incumbent to maintain a Secret security clearance.
Are there specific requirements for the resume length?
Yes, your resume must be no more than two pages. Resumes exceeding this limit will not be considered.
What happens if I do not provide my SF-50 forms?
If you are currently a federal employee seeking a promotion, you must submit SF-50s to prove your time-in-grade. Failure to provide supporting documentation will result in an ineligible rating.
Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command
The Department of the Navy (DON) is committed to protecting the nation's interests through both military and civilian excellence. Working for the DON means becoming part of a mission-focused team that safeguards freedoms. Employees enjoy a supportive environment that prioritizes professional growth, competitive pay, and a culture where your specialized skills directly contribute to the safety of installation personnel and assets.