Become a Telecommunications Specialist with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service
In the high-stakes world of wildland fire management, communication is quite literally a lifeline. The U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS) is currently seeking a detail-oriented and technically proficient Telecommunications Specialist to ensure that our field teams, dispatchers, and support staff remain connected regardless of the environment. If you have experience in radio systems, networking, and electronics and want to apply your skills to a mission-critical federal program, this may be the career path for you.
Job Responsibilities
As a Telecommunications Specialist, you will act as a primary technical authority for electronic systems. Your daily tasks will include:
- System Analysis: Evaluating electronic systems to ensure the most efficient and cost-effective equipment is in use.
- Technical Support: Installing and configuring remote radio terminals, dispatch consoles, and peripheral-sharing devices.
- Network Maintenance: Managing the upkeep of LAN/WAN structures and addressing hardware/software conflicts.
- Field Support: Performing site-specific installations, ensuring proper grounding, and conducting necessary maintenance on tower infrastructure.
Requirements
To be eligible, you must meet specific criteria:
- You must be a U.S. Citizen.
- You must be willing to undergo a drug test and participate in random testing.
- You must have a valid driver's license.
- You must be capable of physical work, including lifting and climbing, when field conditions require.
Qualifications Comparison Table
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Education (Ph.D./Grad) | 3 years of graduate study in relevant fields |
| Work Experience | 1 year of specialized experience at GS-09 level |
| Driver's License | Required (State-issued) |
| Drug Test | Required (Pre-appointment & Random) |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $74,678 to $97,087 per year, reflecting the technical expertise required and the responsibilities inherent in protecting our nation's resources.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Robust health insurance and retirement plans.
- Accrual of paid annual and sick leave.
- Opportunities for relocation incentives where applicable.
- A commitment to employee safety and professional development.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume highlights the exact hours worked per week for every position you've held.
- Show Your Work: Don't assume the recruiter knows your technical background—explicitly list your work with radios, repeaters, and network hardware.
- Watch Your Formatting: Adhere strictly to the two-page limit and font requirements; non-compliant resumes may be rejected immediately.
Serving as a Telecommunications Specialist for the U.S. Wildland Fire Service is more than just a job; it is a vital support role that keeps our firefighters safe and our systems operational. With competitive pay and the opportunity to support a national mission, we encourage qualified candidates to submit their applications today.
Why This Telecommunications Specialist (Wildland Fire) Job Matters
Join the front lines of wildland fire management by securing the critical infrastructure that keeps our teams connected and safe.
Telecommunications Specialist (Wildland Fire) Job Overview
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS) is seeking a skilled Telecommunications Specialist to manage the vital voice and data networks essential for wildland fire operations. This role serves as a key technical resource, responsible for optimizing, maintaining, and developing the communications systems that enable effective coordination across public and tribal lands. You will work in a dynamic environment that blends professional office-based system management with periodic field-based technical operations at dispatch centers and remote communication sites.
Requirements for Telecommunications Specialist (Wildland Fire)
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Must pass a pre-appointment drug test and participate in random drug testing
- Must possess a valid state driver's license
- Completion of a one-year probationary period
- Registration with Selective Service (for males born after 12/31/1959)
- Ability to work on-call, evenings, weekends, holidays, and shift work as required
- Ability to obtain and maintain necessary tower-climbing certifications and safety training
- Ability to pass a background investigation for federal employment
Preferred Qualifications for Telecommunications Specialist (Wildland Fire)
- Experience equivalent to the GS-09 level in telecommunications or electronic systems management
- Expertise in programming and installing digital hand-held/mobile radios and VHF repeaters
- Proven track record in troubleshooting and maintaining LAN/WAN networks and dispatch consoles
- Knowledge of electrical engineering, computer science, or telecommunications management through education (Ph.D. or 3 years of graduate study)
- Experience in site grounding and radio frequency (RF) safety protocols
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Federal health, dental, and vision insurance options
- âś“Comprehensive federal retirement programs
- âś“Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- âś“Relocation incentives for eligible candidates
- âś“Access to professional development and training
đź’ˇ How to Apply Telecommunications Specialist (Wildland Fire) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Telecommunications Specialist (Wildland Fire) Job
- Create or log into a USAJOBS account.
- Review the position requirements and eligibility criteria thoroughly.
- Prepare a federal-style resume (max 2 pages) detailing hours worked and specific duties.
- Submit your resume, assessment questionnaire, and required transcripts via the online portal.
- Acknowledge and submit your application package before the closing date of November 9, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifies the hours worked per week (e.g., 40 hours/week) to verify eligibility.
- Clearly outline your technical experience with specific equipment like repeaters or dispatch consoles.
- Use official or unofficial transcripts to verify any education claims immediately to avoid delays.
- Keep your resume concise and adhere to the 2-page limit with a minimum 10-point font.
- Select all duty locations you are interested in during the application process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the probationary period?
New employees are subject to a one-year probationary period to evaluate performance, conduct, and alignment with agency goals.
Is travel required for this position?
Yes, the role includes periodic travel to field locations, which may involve rough terrain, remote site access, or travel via small aircraft.
Does this position offer relocation assistance?
Yes, depending on the specific location and circumstances, moving expenses may be authorized per federal regulations.
Is there remote work available?
*A: This position is primarily office-based, though it is suitable for telework in emergency or natural disaster scenarios.*
Do I need to be a tower climber?
*A: When assignments require it, yes. Training and certification will be provided to ensure you meet all safety requirements.*
Job from Office Of The Secretary Of The Interior
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service, part of the Department of the Interior, is the backbone of fire-resilient landscape management in the United States. Spanning over 500 million acres of public and tribal lands, our organization coordinates complex management programs, partnering with state foresters, tribal nations, and federal agencies like the USDA Forest Service.