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Federal Firefighter Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Navy

FIREFIGHTER

Bethesda, MD

$46K/yr

... the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized ... Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Airport Firefighter,HazMat Operations, Driver Operator Pumper, and ...

Central Intelligence Agency

Firefighter

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$79K - $123K/yr

S. Constitution, and committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government. Hiring ... Firefighter Level I & II (NFPA 1001) * Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) * FEMA ICS 100, 200, 700 ...

US Department of the Navy

FIREFIGHTER

Bethesda, MD

$50K/yr

... the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized ... Firefighter I/II, Airport Firefighter, Hazmat Operations, Hazmat Technician, Driver Operator Pump ...

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All JobsFederal Firefighter JobsFederal Firefighter Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Federal Firefighter information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$29.5K

$61.6K

$103.4K

How much do federal firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal firefighter in Silver Spring, MD is $61,620.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $71,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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.
More about Federal Firefighter jobs
What are popular job titles related to Federal Firefighter jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Federal Firefighter jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Federal Firefighter jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Federal Firefighter jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Federal Firefighter jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Federal Firefighter job openings:
Federal Firefighter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Federal Firefighter job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,620 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

FIREFIGHTER

US Department of the Navy

Bethesda, MD

$46K/yr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 379 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

This vacancy announcement may be used to fill positions at various Department of the Navy Commands, including but not limited to Marine Corps and Commander, Navy Installations.Qualifications:GS-06:
Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-05 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: 1) Controlling or extinguishing fires as a member of an organized military, industrial, volunteer, or governmental fire department brigade performing any of the following tasks; 2) Performing rescue operations; 3) Detecting, reducing, or eliminating potential fire hazards; 4) Operating fire communications equipment; and 5) Controlling hazardous materials incidents. NOTE: This information must be supported in your resume to be considered for the position.
GS-05:
Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-04 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following: 1) Performing structural and crash firefighting duties; 2) Operating firefighting communication equipment; 3) Using firefighting equipment such as: operating hoses, using ladders and hydrants; 4) Detecting the presence of potentially hazardous material. 5) Maintaining firefighting equipment and fire station facilities, performing functional test and inspection of firefighting equipment.
NOTE: This information must be supported in your resume to be considered for the position.
Certifications for GS-06:
This position requires the incumbent to possess the following certifications: Firefighter I, Firefighter II, Airport Firefighter,HazMat Operations, Driver Operator Pumper, and Driver Operator ARFF. These certifications must have been awarded by DoD, IFSAC or ProBoard to meet the requirement. If you do not possess all of the above certifications you will be rated ineligible. Do you possess the above certifications?
Certifications for GS-05:
This position requires the incumbent to possess the following certifications: Firefighter I\II and HAZMAT Operations. The certifications must have been awarded by DOD, IFSAC, or ProBoard to meet the requirement. If you do not possess all of the above certifications you will be rated ineligible. Do you possess the above certifications?
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website:https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0000/fire-protection-and-prevention-series-0081/Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (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.Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER

What United States Navy employees say

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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