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Federal Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FIREFIGHTER

Key West, FL · On-site

$43K/yr

... the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized ... Firefighter I and II, Airport Firefighter (ARFF), HAZMAT Technician, National Registry Emergency ...

FIREFIGHTER

Barstow, CA · On-site

$42K/yr

... the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized ... Firefighter I Firefighter II Airport Firefighter Hazardous Materials Awareness Hazardous Materials ...

FIREFIGHTER

Key West, FL · On-site

$43K/yr

... the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized ... Firefighter I and II, Airport Firefighter (ARFF), HAZMAT Technician, National Registry Emergency ...

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Federal Firefighter information

See salary details

$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do federal firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for federal firefighter in the United States is $59,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 federal firefighters?

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.

Can a diabetic be a firefighter?

Federal firefighters, like other firefighting roles, can generally be held by individuals with diabetes if their condition is well-managed and they can meet physical and medical requirements. Candidates may need to undergo medical evaluations and provide documentation from healthcare providers to demonstrate their ability to perform essential job functions safely. Each agency may have specific policies regarding medical conditions, so consulting the hiring agency's medical standards is recommended.

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.

Can a firefighter be on blood thinners?

Federal firefighters, like other emergency responders, are generally required to be in good health and able to perform physically demanding tasks. Being on blood thinners may affect a firefighter's ability to safely perform duties due to increased bleeding risk, and medical clearance is typically required during the hiring process. Candidates should disclose medication use during medical evaluations and consult with a healthcare professional and the hiring agency for specific policies.

Can an epileptic be a firefighter?

Federal firefighters are required to meet medical and physical standards, and epilepsy can be a disqualifying condition depending on severity and control. Candidates with epilepsy typically need to provide medical documentation and may need to demonstrate stability and safety in emergency situations. Each agency's policies vary, so consulting specific job requirements is essential.

Does the federal government hire firefighters?

Yes, the federal government hires firefighters, primarily through agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the Department of Defense. Federal firefighters often require specialized training, certifications, and physical fitness standards, and they may work in various environments including national parks, military bases, and disaster response sites.
What cities are hiring for Federal Firefighter jobs? Cities with the most Federal Firefighter job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Firefighter jobs? The most popular types of Federal Firefighter jobs are:
What states have the most Federal Firefighter jobs? States with the most job openings for Federal Firefighter jobs include:

FIREFIGHTER

CNIC Careers

Key West, FL • On-site

$43K/yr

Other

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

This is a public notice flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will not be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants must follow the directions in the "How to Apply" section of this flyer to be considered. There may or may not be actual vacancies filled from this flyer. Notice of Result letters will not be sent to applicants who respond to this flyer.
Pay Range:
GS-07:
$53,740-$69,864
GS-06:
$48,361-$62,869
GS-05:
$43,384-$56,399Qualifications:GS-07:
Your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-06 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 dept/brigade. 2) Performing rescue operations. 3) Detecting, reducing, or eliminating potential fire hazards. 4) Controlling hazardous materials incidents. 5) Driving and operating firefighting vehicles. 6) Performing non-invasive emergency medical procedures.
Required Certifications: Firefighter I and II, Airport Firefighter (ARFF), HAZMAT Technician, National Registry Emergency Medical Technician (NREMT) and CPR, HAZMAT Technician, Driver Operator Pumper, and Driver Operator ARFF. Must obtain and submit all certification requirements.
GS-06:
Your resume must also 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. 2) Preforming rescue operations as a team member. 3) Detecting, reducing, or eliminating potential fire hazards 4) Controlling hazardous materials incidents.
Required Certifications: Firefighter I and II, CPR, HAZMAT Operations, Driver Operator Pumper.
Airport Firefighter, Driver Operator ARFF, and National Registry Emergency Medical Technician will be required within one year of being hired. Copies of Certifications MUST be submitted with your application.
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) Controlling or extinguishing fires as a member of an organized military, volunteer, or governmental fire department/brigade. 2) Performing rescue operations as a team member. 3) Operating pumps, foam generators, and other similar equipment.
Required certifications: Firefighter I and Firefighter II, HAZMAT Operations.
Airport Firefighter will be required within one year of being hired. Copies of Certifications MUST be submitted with your application.
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