Wildland Firefighter (Engine) - Direct Hire Authority

Summary

This Direct‑Hire advertisement is for a Wildland Firefighter (Engine) position. Veterans preference is not applicable. The role covers multiple duty locations, including Bishop, CA; Crater Lake, OR; Hawaii National Park, HI; Los Banos, CA; Tulelake, CA; Willows, CA; and Yosemite National Park, CA.

Major Duties

Wildland Firefighter (Engine) duties vary with grade level. At the GW‑06 level, responsibilities include coordinating crew logistics, deploying special tools (power saws, pumps, firing devices, radios), leading fuel‑management projects, acting as a situational leader on fires (building lines, mopping up, patrolling), and handling administrative tasks such as record maintenance and safety reporting.

At the GW‑07 level, duties expand to directing operations of advanced tools, supervising equipment readiness, serving as a subject‑matter expert on interagency committees, leading or participating in complex fuel‑management projects, operating wildland fire engines (engine protection, pump and roll, firing, and holding operations), managing water supply, and performing specialized roles such as water‑handling specialists during urban interface situations.

Education & Experience

There is no education substitute for experience at the GW‑0456‑06 or GW‑0456‑07 grade levels. Experience with wildland fire suppression, engine operations, and fuel‑management projects is required.

Requirements

• U.S. Citizen or National.
• Background investigation and suitability for federal employment.
• Direct deposit required.
• Pass a pre‑employment medical examination and a work‑capacity test for arduous positions.
• Pass a drug test and be subject to random drug testing.
• Maintain a valid state driver’s license; a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) may be required depending on location (Class B with tank endorsement within one year of appointment).
• Work as a Wildland Firefighter, including operating a fire engine and related vehicles.
• Be able to travel frequently and obtain a government charge card for travel and purchase authority.
• Accept a one‑year probationary period during which fitness and suitability are evaluated.
• Meet all age and gender‑related requirements for hazardous duty (minimum 18 years of age, registration with Selective Service if applicable).