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Federal Firefighter Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

FMS Aerospace

Systems Integration Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$168K/yr

Our parent company, Bridger Aerospace is an aerial firefighting and critical infrastructure support ... federal or state law in matters of employment, promotion, services or activities it operates.

FMS Aerospace

Systems Integration Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$168K/yr

Our parent company, Bridger Aerospace is an aerial firefighting and critical infrastructure support ... federal or state law in matters of employment, promotion, services or activities it operates.

FMS Aerospace

Program Manager

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Our parent company, Bridger Aerospace is an aerial firefighting and critical infrastructure support ... federal or state law in matters of employment, promotion, services or activities it operates.

FMS Aerospace

Program Manager

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Our parent company, Bridger Aerospace is an aerial firefighting and critical infrastructure support ... federal or state law in matters of employment, promotion, services or activities it operates.

FMS Aerospace

Program Manager

Huntsville, AL · Hybrid

Our parent company, Bridger Aerospace is an aerial firefighting and critical infrastructure support ... federal or state law in matters of employment, promotion, services or activities it operates.

FMS Aerospace

Technical Writer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Our parent company, Bridger Aerospace is an aerial firefighting and critical infrastructure support ... federal or state law in matters of employment, promotion, services or activities it operates.

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All JobsFederal Firefighter JobsFederal Firefighter Jobs in Decatur, AL

Federal Firefighter information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$26.7K

$55.9K

$93.7K

How much do federal firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal firefighter in Decatur, AL is $55,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,700.00 and $64,700.00 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, often requiring specialized training and certifications. These positions typically offer competitive pay, benefits, and require adherence to federal employment standards.

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 meet the qualifications, pass the physical fitness tests, and obtain necessary certifications such as firefighter training and EMT certification.
More about Federal Firefighter jobs

What are popular job titles related to Federal Firefighter jobs in Decatur, AL?

For Federal Firefighter jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Federal Firefighter jobs in Decatur, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Federal Firefighter jobs in Decatur, AL are:

What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Federal Firefighter jobs?

Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Federal Firefighter job openings:

Federal Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Firefighter job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,878 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Wildland Firefighter

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

Moulton, AL • On-site

$25.37/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

USDA Forest Service rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

159th of 292 rated public sector bodies

Job description

This position is located within a National Forest. The position is located on a fire crew as a crewmember within the fire management organization. The purpose of the position is wildland fire suppression/management/control, as a firefighter on an engine, hotshot, helitack or hand crew.

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.
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.
GW-05: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GW-04 grade level in federal service or equivalent; OR successful completion of a 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university with major study in Fire Science, Fire Training, Fire Technology or other related fields of study; OR a combination of education and experience.
Examples of specialized experience include: Patrolling areas of controlled fires to mop-up by searching out and extinguishing any remaining burning material. Serving on a specialty crew (hotshot, helitack, engines, etc.) to suppress the full range of difficult and complex fires. Operating 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 Secondary NWCG Core Requirement of Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (S-290).

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.
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, which means you must maintain the required level of physical fitness in order to remain in the position. The Arduous fitness (Pack) Test requires completing a three (3) mile hike within forty-five (45) minutes, while carrying a forty-five (45) pound pack. You are strongly encouraged to consult with your physician and begin training immediately if applying for this position. This announcement constitutes the required 30 days advanced notice for testing requirements.
In accordance with USDA Department Regulation 4430-792-2, this position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP) under the USDA Drug Free Workplace Program and subject to pre-employment drug testing. All applicants selected for this position will be required to submit to a urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Incumbents of this position will be required to submit to a urinalysis on an ongoing random basis, after appointment as directed.
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

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