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Federal Firefighter Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

The Denver Fire Department is the largest firefighting entity within the state of Colorado. The DFD ... under federal, state, and/or local law. Applicants for employment with the City and County of ...

The Denver Fire Department is the largest firefighting entity within the state of Colorado. The DFD ... under federal, state, and/or local law. Applicants for employment with the City and County of ...

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Federal Firefighter information

See Colorado salary details

$30K

$62.7K

$105.2K

How much do federal firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal firefighter in Colorado is $62,677.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,800.00 and $72,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a federal firefighter?

Federal firefighters are trained professionals employed by the U.S. government to protect federal property, personnel, and natural resources from fire and other emergencies. They may work for agencies such as the Department of Defense, National Park Service, or the U.S. Forest Service. Their duties include fire prevention, emergency medical services, hazardous materials response, and rescue operations on federal lands or installations. Federal firefighters often operate in unique environments, such as military bases or national parks, and must meet specific federal training and certification requirements.

What does a federal firefighter do?

A federal firefighter works for a federal agency and provides firefighting services to structural or wildland fires. The Bureau of Land Management, the U.S Fish and Wildlife, the U.S. Forest Service, and branches of the U.S. Military are just some of the agencies that employ federal firefighters. These positions are available to people in the military and civilian firefighters. Your responsibilities in these positions involve responding to fire alarms, hazardous materials incidents, and medical emergencies, and maintaining the firefighting equipment and station. Wildland firefighter duties include prescribed burning, fire preparedness, refugee assistance, and wildfire suppression.

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 strong knowledge of firefighting techniques, emergency medical response, and hazardous materials handling, typically supported by certifications like Firefighter I/II, EMT, and CPR. Familiarity with fire suppression equipment, SCBA systems, and incident command software is essential. Physical fitness, teamwork, quick decision-making, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for protecting lives and property in high-pressure, rapidly changing emergency situations.

What are some common challenges faced by federal firefighters, and how can new hires best prepare for them?

Federal firefighters often encounter unique challenges such as responding to emergencies on large federal properties, adapting to strict protocols, and working in remote or hazardous environments. New hires should be prepared for extensive training, rotating shifts, and the need to collaborate closely with other federal agencies. Building strong teamwork skills, maintaining physical fitness, and staying up-to-date with federal safety standards can help new firefighters adapt quickly and perform effectively in this demanding role.

What is the difference between Federal Firefighter vs State Firefighter?

AspectFederal FirefighterState Firefighter
CertificationsFirefighter I & II, EMT certification often requiredSimilar certifications, often including EMT or paramedic
Work EnvironmentFederal facilities, national parks, military basesState and local fire departments, public safety facilities
Employer & IndustryFederal government agencies like FEMA, DOI, DODState government fire departments, local municipalities

Federal Firefighters and State Firefighters share similar certifications and work environments, focusing on fire suppression and rescue. The main difference lies in their employers—federal agencies versus state and local departments—affecting jurisdiction and specific duties.

Are there federally employed firefighters?

Yes, federal firefighters are employed by government agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Federal Emergency Management Agency. They respond to wildfires, structural fires, and other emergencies on federal lands and facilities, often requiring specialized training and certifications. These positions typically offer competitive pay, benefits, and a structured work schedule.

Is 27 too late to be a federal firefighter?

Federal firefighting agencies typically require applicants to be at least 18 years old, and there is often no upper age limit as long as candidates meet physical and medical standards. Age should not be a barrier if you are physically fit, pass background checks, and obtain necessary certifications such as firefighter training and EMT certification.

What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Firefighter jobs in Colorado?

The most popular types of Federal Firefighter jobs in Colorado are:

What job categories do people searching Federal Firefighter jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Federal Firefighter jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Federal Firefighter jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Federal Firefighter job openings:

Infographic showing various Federal Firefighter job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,677 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

FIREFIGHTER (HAZ MAT TECH/BASIC LIFE SUPPORT)

US Department of the Air Force

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

$51K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.
The primary purpose of this position is: To serve as a Firefighter (Hazardous Materials Technician/Basic Life Support) assigned to a crew engaged in airfield and structural firefighting and crash-rescue operations.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, to include the Individual Occupational Requirements (IOR) for the GS-0081, Fire Protection and Prevention Series.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-06, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes: (1) controlling or extinguishing fires as a member of an organized military, industrial, volunteer, or governmental fire department or brigade; (2) rescue operations; (3) detection, reduction, or elimination of potential fire hazards; (4) operation of fire communications equipment; (5) controlling hazardous materials incidents; and/or (6) developing, implementing, or providing training in fire protection and prevention.
FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS-06 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-07 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements.
Special Retirement Provisions Authority: FERS Position covered as rigorous under the FERS special retirement provisions for Federal firefighters [5 U.S.C. 8401(14), 5 U.S.C. 8412(d), and 5 CFR 842.802]. OR Position covered as rigorous under the CSRS special retirement provisions for Federal firefighters [5 U.S.C. 8331(21), 5 U.S.C. 8336(c), and 5 CFR 831.902].
MAXIMUM ENTRY AGE: Title 5 U.S.C. 3307 authorizes the head of any agency to establish a maximum entry age for the original appointment of individuals to the position of primary and rigorous firefighter. For initial appointments, applicants cannot have reached their 37th birthday by date of appointment. This age restriction does not apply to those who have previously served in a Federal civilian firefighting position covered by title 5 U.S.C. section 3307 provisions OR to qualified veteran preference eligibles who may be eligible for waivers in accordance with section 3 of DoDI 1400.25-V336. NOTE: Applicants who are past the maximum entry age, are re-entering into a primary/rigorous position and have previous special retirement coverage service - may be eligible to be rehired or reinstated to a primary/rigorous covered position without requiring a maximum entry age waiver if he/she will be able to complete 20 years of covered service by age 57.
Effective 1 Jun 00, all DoD firefighters and contract fire and emergency service personnel must be certified at the next higher level before being eligible for promotion to that level. Applicants must list their current firefighter related licenses and certificates on their resumes. Please attach copies of certifications when you submit the resume to verify qualification requirements for the position. Certification requirements for this position are: Airport Firefighter (includes Firefighter I and II), Hazmat Awareness, Hazmat Operations, Hazmat Technician, Apparatus Driver/Operator (D/O) - Pumper, D/O - Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF), Apparatus Driver Operator- Mobile Water Supply (MWS).
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
1. Knowledge to drive and operate firefighting vehicles of significant complexity, and the principles of hydraulics as they pertain to waterflow, water pressure, water levels, line (friction) losses, etc.
2. Knowledge of basic and specialized airfield and structural firefighting equipment (fire alarm system operation, fire extinguishing equipment operation, etc.), techniques, and procedures; and of basic and specialized building design, construction, and occupancy.
3. Knowledge of HAZMAT emergency response procedures, equipment, identification, and mitigation actions.
4. Knowledge of basic life support techniques and protocols; and of safety requirements as outlined in applicable safety standards, regulations, and/or technical orders.
5. Skill in operating communications equipment.
6. Ability to apply basic life support techniques and protocols; conduct complete HAZMAT incident analysis; maintain good working relations; communicate orally and in writing; and lift and carry heavy loads.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:Employment Type: OTHER