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Engine Boss Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Fire Engine Captain

Flagstaff, AZ · On-site

$24.71 - $26.42/hr

NWCG qualification of Engine Boss (ENGB) and physical fitness level of Arduous per PMS310-1 must be obtained within one year of hire. Any employee operating a motor vehicle on State business must ...

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Engine Boss information

See Arizona salary details

$11

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How much do engine boss jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for engine boss in Arizona is $20.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an engine boss do?

An Engine Boss is a supervisory wildland firefighting position responsible for leading a fire engine crew during wildfire suppression and mitigation efforts. They manage resources, ensure crew safety, and coordinate with other firefighting teams to contain and control fires. Engine Bosses also oversee equipment maintenance, conduct training, and implement firefighting strategies based on fire behavior and environmental conditions. Their role is critical in ensuring efficient and safe wildfire response.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an engine boss?

To thrive as an Engine Boss, you need strong leadership, wildfire suppression tactics, and incident command knowledge, often supported by NWCG Engine Boss (ENGB) certification and relevant wildland firefighting experience. Familiarity with fire engines, communications equipment, and resource tracking systems is crucial. Excellent decision-making, clear communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are vital soft skills for leading a fire crew safely and effectively. These competencies ensure the safe, organized, and efficient management of crew and resources during wildfire incidents.

What are some typical challenges faced by an engine boss in the field?

Engine Bosses frequently encounter rapidly changing fire conditions, requiring quick decision-making and adaptability to ensure crew safety and effective suppression tactics. Coordinating with multiple agencies, managing resources in rugged or remote environments, and maintaining clear communication under stress are common parts of the job. Engine Bosses are also responsible for the maintenance and readiness of fire engines and equipment throughout an incident. These challenges make the role both demanding and rewarding, as your leadership directly impacts crew safety and operational success.

How do you become an engine boss?

To become an engine boss, typically one must have extensive experience operating and managing fire engines or similar emergency vehicles, often starting as a firefighter or driver. Certification in emergency vehicle operations and leadership training are usually required, along with a valid driver's license and good driving record.

What job categories do people searching Engine Boss jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Engine Boss jobs in Arizona are:

Infographic showing various Engine Boss job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,797 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Wildland Firefighter (Fire Engine Operation)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Sedona, AZ • On-site

$57K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


United States Department Of Agriculture rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

455th of 851 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

These positions will be located at a USDA Forest Service Unit.
This Forestry Technician position serves as a full assistant to the supervisor of a Fire Engine Module in areas with the added complexities of wildland-urban interface. The incumbent has primary responsibility for operation of the engine in responding to wildland fires and other projects as assigned.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION for Regional contacts.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-06: One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GW-5 grade level in federal service or equivalent.
Examples of Specialized Experience include: Performed and directed others in starting pump engine, priming pump, adjusting engine speed and pump valves, laying hose appropriate nozzles and nozzle adjustment in effective use of water and foam application; Performed prescribed fire operations including preparation, ignition, monitoring, holding, and mop up; Evaluated initial fire situations, determined rate of spread, potential hazards to property and other improvements; Ensured the engine and fire equipment has been kept in full state of readiness for emergency dispatch.
For the GW-07 level: One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GW-06 grade level in federal service or equivalent.
Examples of specialized experience include: Implemented safety/training programs in compliance with Incident Command System, fire suppression, fireline construction, hose lays and maintenance of protective equipment; Assisted with prescribed fire management, developed burn plans; and fuels inventory/preparation and disposal; Evaluated initial fire situations, determined suppression method and probable causes of fire; Assisted with property and procurement of equipment ensuring the engine and fire equipment have been kept in full state of readiness for emergency dispatch.
Selective Placement Factors
Successfully completed the Primary NWCG Core Requirement of Engine Boss (ENGB) and Secondary NWCG Core Requirement of Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT 5) -AND- Successfully Completed the NWCG Course S-211.
Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) and Forest Service - Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) qualifications must be met by the time of selection. Most recent IQCS master record and/or signed Agency Certified task book must be attached to your application. If you are selected, you may be required to submit an updated IQCS master record or signed Agency Certified task book as proof of attainment of IFPM requirements prior to a final verbal offer.
In order to be considered for this position, copies of your Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) Master Record (or equivalent training documents) which contain documented proof of the certification or attainment of the IFPM Selective Placement Factor for this position MUST be attached to your application. Red cards are not acceptable documentation. Currency Requirement: Required to maintain currency once hired into the position. Currency of NWCG qualifications is not required for selection. If not currently qualified, the applicant must provide documented evidence that they have been fully qualified in the past, and are able to regain currency within one year of being hired. Failure to provide this documentation will result in disqualification.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a primary/rigorous position covered under the special retirement provisions of 5 USC 8336(c) for the Civil Service Retirement System and of 5 USC 8412(d) for the Federal Employees Retirement System.
WORK CAPACITY TEST (WCT) for Wildland Firefighters: This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the ARDUOUS level is a condition of employment.
To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.Education:There is no substitution of education for specialized experience.Employment Type: OTHER

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