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Federal Fire Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

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Federal Fire information

What is a federal fire?

Federal Firefighters are emergency personnel employed by the federal government to provide fire protection, emergency medical services, and disaster response at federal facilities, such as military bases, national parks, and other federal properties. Their duties include fire suppression, rescue operations, hazardous material response, and fire prevention education. These firefighters are trained to handle unique challenges specific to federal installations and may collaborate with local and state emergency services. Federal Firefighters play a crucial role in safeguarding lives, property, and sensitive federal assets.

What are some unique challenges federal firefighters face compared to their municipal counterparts?

Federal Firefighters often work on military bases or federal properties, where they may respond to a wider variety of emergencies, including hazardous materials incidents, aircraft fires, and security-related situations. The work environment can be highly regulated, requiring familiarity with federal protocols and frequent coordination with military or federal law enforcement agencies. Adapting to these unique requirements, along with maintaining readiness for diverse emergency scenarios, is a key challenge in this role. Collaboration within interdisciplinary teams and ongoing specialized training are essential for success and advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a federal firefighter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Federal Firefighter, you need comprehensive knowledge of fire suppression, emergency medical response, hazardous materials handling, and typically must have certifications such as EMT, Firefighter I/II, and sometimes a valid state driver’s license. Familiarity with tools like fire engines, hydraulic rescue equipment, communication radios, and incident reporting systems is critical. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and resilience under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are essential for ensuring quick, effective responses to emergencies and maintaining the safety of both the public and fellow responders.

What is the difference between Federal Fire vs State Firefighter?

AspectFederal FireState Firefighter
CertificationsFirefighter I & II, EMT, specialized federal certificationsFirefighter I & II, EMT, state-specific certifications
Work EnvironmentFederal facilities, national parks, military basesState and local fire departments, communities
Employer & IndustryFederal government agenciesState and local government agencies

Federal Firefighters and State Firefighters share similar certifications and training, but Federal Firefighters work primarily in federal facilities and national parks, while State Firefighters serve local communities. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, but differ in work environment and employer jurisdiction.

Are federal firefighters going to get paid?

Yes, federal firefighters are paid for their work, with salaries determined by government pay scales and classifications. They typically receive regular paychecks, benefits, and may earn overtime depending on their schedule and workload.

How do you become a federal firefighter?

To become a federal firefighter, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass physical fitness tests, and obtain firefighter certifications such as Firefighter I and II. Applicants must also meet background checks and medical requirements, and often complete training at a federal firefighting academy or training center.
Infographic showing various Federal Fire job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Supervisory Wildland Fire Fighter (Fire Engine Operator)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

La Grande, OR • On-site

$62K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 9 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

454th of 854 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

These positions will be located at a USDA Forest Service Unit.
Serves as first line supervisor on a High Complexity Fire Engine Module. The primary purpose of the position is to perform wildland firefighting work and to provide leadership for a crew performing such work.
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.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-07: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-06) in the Federal Service. Examples of Specialized Experience are: Evaluated initial fire situations to determine suppression method to use, hose lays, deployment of crew, point of initial attack, type of tools to use, and application of water; Communicated with dispatcher and superiors on the progress on fire situation requesting additional resources when applicable; Demonstrated safety practices relative to all-hazard incident management involving crews, resources, and equipment; Served as a working leader on a wildland fire engine; Directing others and provided leadership in wildland fire operations including prescribed fire.
For the GW-08: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-07) in the Federal Service. Examples of Specialized Experience are: Operated and maintained pump engine and specialized equipment used to respond to wildland and prescribed fire situations; Assisted with search and rescue incidents, victim recoveries, automobile accidents, and hazardous materials incidents during local responses involving multi-jurisdictional and multi-agency co-operators; Served as Initial Attack Incident Commander on wildland and/or urban interface and all-hazard incidents; Directed project work in support of ecosystem management such as prescribed fire, including development of burn plans.
Selective Placement Factors:
Successfully completed the Primary NWCG Core Requirement of Engine Boss (ENGB) -AND- Successfully completed the Secondary NWCG Core Requirement of Incident Commander Type 4 (ICT4).
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.
Primary firefighter positions include the following age requirements: Under age 37 -OR- less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service worked in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position -OR- a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and is requesting a waiver to the maximum age requirement -OR-currently occupy a permanent position with primary fire fighter retirement coverage.
For those who do not currently occupy a permanent Federal position covered under primary fire fighter retirement, you must be under age 37; less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position; or a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and requesting a waiver to the requirement.
This position has been identified as (HIGH) Complexity under the Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) or Forest Service Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) and is subject to selective placement factor requirements contained in the Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) Standard and Guide when filling this vacancy. IFPM or FS-FPM selective placement factors are made up of a primary and secondary National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) core Incident Management Qualifications and Required Training. The applicant must possess these qualifications at the applicable complexity level to be considered eligible for this position.
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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