1

Fuel Reduction Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Partner with agencies, Tribes, NGOs, and research institutions; serve as a technical advisor within collaboratives focused on forest health, fuels reduction, prescribed fire, and wildfire risk ...

Provide natural resource educational information to the public regarding best management practices for forest health, forest stewardship, defensible space, fuel reduction, and fire-safe landscapes ...

Forest Ecologist

Mckinleyville, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Partner with agencies, Tribes, NGOs, and research institutions; serve as a technical advisor within collaboratives focused on forest health, fuels reduction, prescribed fire, and wildfire risk ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Fuel Reduction information

See salary details

$9

$24

$49

How much do fuel reduction jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for fuel reduction in the United States is $24.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Fuel Reduction position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Fuel Reduction, you should have a solid understanding of forestry management, wildfire prevention practices, and the safe operation of equipment such as chainsaws and chippers, often supported by relevant certifications like S-212 Wildland Fire Chainsaws. Familiarity with GIS mapping systems, burn permitting processes, and compliance with local environmental regulations is highly beneficial. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication are essential for thriving in dynamic outdoor environments. These skills are important for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of fuel reduction projects, protecting communities from wildfire risks and supporting sustainable land management.

What is fuel reduction work?

Fuel reduction work involves clearing or thinning vegetation, such as trees and brush, to reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health. It often requires operating specialized tools, following safety protocols, and may involve working in outdoor, often remote, environments. Certifications in wildfire safety and environmental regulations are commonly beneficial for this role.

What are some typical challenges faced in a Fuel Reduction role?

One of the most common challenges in Fuel Reduction is working safely in rugged terrain and varying weather conditions while operating heavy equipment. You may also encounter the need to adapt plans quickly due to changing fire danger levels, wildlife considerations, or environmental regulations. Collaboration with fire crews, landowners, and government agencies is key, as is adhering to strict safety protocols. Successfully navigating these challenges not only increases project effectiveness but also contributes to personal safety and professional growth within the field.

How much do helitack crews make?

Helitack crews, which are specialized firefighting teams that use helicopters to suppress wildfires, typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and agency. Annual salaries can range from approximately $30,000 to $50,000, with seasonal or overtime pay often included. Certifications in firefighting and helicopter safety are usually required for these roles.

What is a Fuel Reduction job?

A Fuel Reduction job involves managing vegetation to decrease wildfire risk by removing excess brush, trees, and other flammable materials. Workers may use tools like chainsaws, chippers, and controlled burns to create defensible space around homes, roads, and infrastructure. This process helps slow the spread of wildfires, making it easier for firefighters to protect communities. Fuel reduction is essential in wildfire-prone areas and often conducted by government agencies, contractors, or conservation groups.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

High-paying jobs related to fuel reduction, such as specialized environmental consultants or project managers in large-scale land management projects, can sometimes pay around $2,000 per day, especially for experienced professionals with certifications and extensive expertise. These roles often require advanced skills, fieldwork, and project oversight in industries like forestry, environmental consulting, or government agencies.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Fuel reduction jobs, such as specialized forestry or environmental management roles, typically do not pay $10,000 a month without significant experience or certifications. High-paying roles in this field are rare and usually require advanced skills, leadership positions, or consulting work. Most positions in fuel reduction focus on safety, planning, and environmental impact, with salaries generally below that threshold without extensive expertise.
More about Fuel Reduction jobs
What cities are hiring for Fuel Reduction jobs? Cities with the most Fuel Reduction job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Fuel Reduction jobs? The most popular types of Fuel Reduction jobs are:
What states have the most Fuel Reduction jobs? States with the most job openings for Fuel Reduction jobs include:
Infographic showing various Fuel Reduction job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,955 per year, or $25 per hour.

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description

POSITION TITLE:  Engineer - Senior Firefighter

CLASSIFICATION:    Non-Exempt

DEPARTMENT:  Preparedness Resources Department 

SUPERVISOR: Captain/Engine Boss 

GRADE: NE13 $25.18 ($52,353)- $37.76 ($78,540)    

Position Summary:

Responsible for operation and proper functioning of a variety of fire-fighting vehicles and equipment; directly participates in a wide range of fire-fighting operations. Maintains confidentiality of all privileged information.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Responds to fire incidents as a vehicle / apparatus operator; places vehicle in most effective position; hooks-up and connects hose at pump; operates pump; ensures pump is at proper pressure to deliver correct water flow.

Responsible for observing the rules of fire safety and fire behavior while on the fire line. 

Uses a variety of hand and power tools, including chainsaws, portable pumps, and/or fire fighting devises, etc.

Gathers information on fuel types, weather conditions, and fire conditions / behavior.

Serves as a member of a fire crew assigned to suppress the full range of wildland fires, and conducting fuels reduction projects, independently performing recurring assigned duties.

Assists in the training of personnel pertaining to wildfire suppression and tactics.

Performs assignments as a wildland firefighter in developing a working knowledge of fire suppression and fuels management techniques, practices, and terminology.

May work in and around aircraft such as helicopters and must be able to observe all safety regulations.

Responsible for the maintenance and up-keep of fire apparatus(s), and ability to perform field maintenance on the vehicle and/or the pump. Reports any deficiencies to supervisor.

Stages extra hose and equipment, sets up hose-lay for personnel.

Assists in maintaining station log and preparing reports on equipment maintenance .

Performs basic maintenance and flow testing of fire hydrants.

Search out and extinguish burning materials. Applying water by hose lay, and/or back-pack pump etc., construct fire-line using various hand tools and power equipment, may include the use of chippers to prepare control lines.

Patrol fire line to locate and extinguish hotspots, flare-ups that may be threatening developed fire line.

Participates in crew proficiency checks, drills, p safety sessions and fire critiques.

Represents the agency with dignity, integrity, and the spirit of cooperation with all relationships .

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

 High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).

 Three (3) or more seasons of wildland fire / fuels management, preferred.

Basic first aid, CPR certification.

Valid State Class "C" driver's license.

S-212 wildland fire power chainsaw certification.

Red card certified Firefighter 1, ICT 5

S-290 Intermediate Wildland fire Behavior

IS-800 National Response Framework, an Introduction

S-200 Basic Incident Command System for Initial Attack

Open/completed Engin Operator (ENOP) task book

Valid state Class B with "F" endorsement driver's license

L-280 Followership to Leadership

S-230 Engine Boss or open completed/open task book

Recommended After (1) Year:

Open ICT4 Task Book

Open single resource Task book i.e. Crew Boss etc.

Knowledge, Abilities, Skills, and Certifications:

Knowledge of policies and procedure of the Washoe Tribe Fire Department.

Knowledge of area geography including streets and landmarks.

Skilled in fuels reduction techniques, and wildfire suppression tactics.

Skilled in basic tree, brush and vegetation identification.

Able to develop crew cohesion

Skilled iniInstructing personnel in fire suppression tactics .

Able to perform a variety of fuels reduction and wildland fire fighting assignments.

Able to construct a fire line.

Able to use two-way radios efficiently.

Knowledge of GPS use.

Able to learn a variety of fuels reduction and firefighting duties, methods, tools, and equipment.

Able to analyze situations quickly and reach logical conclusions in emergencies.

Able to plan, organize and prioritize daily activities.

Able to read and comprehend laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.

Ability to read and follow maps.

Able to understand and follow oral and written directions.

Able topPrepare and maintain reports.

Knowledge of basic arithmetic elements using whole numbers, decimals, percentages, and fractions.

Able to exercise good judgement, follow safe practices, and maintain emotional control, while working under stressful conditions.

Ability to communicate effectively in the English language both verbally and in writing.

Physical Demands:

Work hours will normally involve 40-hour work weeks, may be variable and may include overnight shifts, weekends, evenings, and/or holidays.

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods. Ability to lift, bend, stoop, kneel, push, pull, and carry heavy loads on cluttered and inconsistent surfaces, uneven terrain or on steep slopes varying from 30 to 90%.

Ability to perform sustained and vigorous activities in a variety of environmental conditions.

This position requires frequent lifting up to 65 lbs. unassisted, and occasional assisting with team lifting up to 200 lbs.

Work Environment:

Work is subject to performance under prolonged adverse environmental and weather conditions.

Individual may be subject to extreme heat or cold, changing weather conditions, large moving objects, with heavy equipment, hazardous materials, uneven ground, flying debris, and excessive noise. 

Situations where safety-toe shoes, safety goggles, dust masks, gloves, protective face shields, thick clothing and/or hardhats are needed may arise. 

Tight time constraints and multiple competing priorities are common. 

Travel may be required.

The Washoe Tribe of Nevada & California requires a background check of each new hire for employment purposes. Therefore, all conditionally offered positions will be subject to the following:

Negative alcohol and drug screen

Meet requirements of Public Law 101-630

Obtain or possess a valid driver's license for either the state of Nevada or California within 30 days

Must be insurable under the Washoe Tribe's driving policy

Preference will be given to Qualified Native American Indians.