... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
... firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for ... You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service.
Federal Firefighter information
See Oregon salary details
$30.1K - $37K
4% of jobs
$37K - $43.9K
9% of jobs
$48.2K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$43.9K - $50.7K
18% of jobs
The median wage is $56.8K / yr.
$50.7K - $57.6K
21% of jobs
$57.6K - $64.5K
14% of jobs
$70.2K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$64.5K - $71.4K
11% of jobs
$71.4K - $78.2K
8% of jobs
$78.2K - $85.1K
5% of jobs
$85.1K - $92K
4% of jobs
$92K - $98.9K
3% of jobs
$98.9K - $105.7K
2% of jobs
$30.1K
$63K
$105.7K
How much do federal firefighter jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal firefighter in Oregon is $63,021.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,100.00 and $73,000.00 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?
| Aspect | Federal Firefighter | State Firefighter |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Firefighter I & II, EMT certification often required | Similar certifications, often including EMT or paramedic |
| Work Environment | Federal facilities, national parks, military bases | State and local fire departments, public safety facilities |
| Employer & Industry | Federal government agencies like FEMA, DOI, DOD | State 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.
More about Federal Firefighter jobs
- How to become a federal firefighter?
- What are the benefits of being a federal firefighter?
- What is the difference between a federal firefighter and a municipal firefighter?
- Why are federal firefighters called hotshots?
- What Is a Federal Firefighter and How to Become One
- Federal Firefighter Job Description Sample Template
What are popular job titles related to Federal Firefighter jobs in Oregon?
For Federal Firefighter jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Federal Firefighter jobs in Oregon look for?
The top searched job categories for Federal Firefighter jobs in Oregon are:
What cities in Oregon are hiring for Federal Firefighter jobs?
Cities in Oregon with the most Federal Firefighter job openings:
Wildland Firefighter (Senior Firefighter)
Bend, OR
Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service
$48K/yr
Full-time
Retirement
Posted 6 days ago
Job description
These positions will be located at a USDA Forest Service Unit.
The incumbent serves on a fire crew as a crewmember within the fire management organization and performs wildland fire suppression/management/control, as a firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for the specific contact information.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-04: You must have 6 months of general experience AND 6 months of specialized experience equivalent to the GW-03 in the Federal service OR Successful completion of a two (2)-year course of study in an accredited college or university in Fire Training, Fire Science, Fire Technology or other related fields of study OR a combination of education and experience.
Examples of general experience include: Performed farm/ranch labor, such as feeding/tending livestock or general maintenance of farm/ranch facilities and/or worked in a greenhouse, nursery or landscaping e.g., planting, moving, watering, and tending plants and/or animal caretaker in a laboratory, zoo or pet store and/or volunteer work at a park, hospital, community sports league, local fire department, etc.
Examples of specialized experience include: Performed natural resource support work, e.g., forestry, range, park technician, wildland firefighter, or similar jobs; performed routine support assignments in a forestry specialty area, e.g., wilderness, timber, fire prevention/control, etc.
For the GW-05: You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service. Examples of specialized experience include: Patrolled areas of controlled fires to mop-up by searching out and extinguishing any remaining burning material; Served on a specialty crew (hotshot, helitack, engines, etc.) to suppress the full range of difficult and complex fires; and Operated specialized fire suppression equipment such as portable pumps or drip torches.
Selective Placement Factors:
Successfully completed the Primary NWCG Core Requirement of Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) -AND- Successfully completed the NWCG Course S-290 Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior
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 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:
Employment Type: OTHER
The incumbent serves on a fire crew as a crewmember within the fire management organization and performs wildland fire suppression/management/control, as a firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for the specific contact information.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-04: You must have 6 months of general experience AND 6 months of specialized experience equivalent to the GW-03 in the Federal service OR Successful completion of a two (2)-year course of study in an accredited college or university in Fire Training, Fire Science, Fire Technology or other related fields of study OR a combination of education and experience.
Examples of general experience include: Performed farm/ranch labor, such as feeding/tending livestock or general maintenance of farm/ranch facilities and/or worked in a greenhouse, nursery or landscaping e.g., planting, moving, watering, and tending plants and/or animal caretaker in a laboratory, zoo or pet store and/or volunteer work at a park, hospital, community sports league, local fire department, etc.
Examples of specialized experience include: Performed natural resource support work, e.g., forestry, range, park technician, wildland firefighter, or similar jobs; performed routine support assignments in a forestry specialty area, e.g., wilderness, timber, fire prevention/control, etc.
For the GW-05: You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-04 in the Federal service. Examples of specialized experience include: Patrolled areas of controlled fires to mop-up by searching out and extinguishing any remaining burning material; Served on a specialty crew (hotshot, helitack, engines, etc.) to suppress the full range of difficult and complex fires; and Operated specialized fire suppression equipment such as portable pumps or drip torches.
Selective Placement Factors:
Successfully completed the Primary NWCG Core Requirement of Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) -AND- Successfully completed the NWCG Course S-290 Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior
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 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:
Employment Type: OTHER