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Hand Crew Firefighter Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

This position, under the supervision of the Battalion Chief acts as a supervisor of a wildland fire module/hand crew with multiple firefighters that participate in all functional areas of wildland ...

Hand Crew Firefighter information

See Reno, NV salary details

$28.4K

$59.4K

$99.7K

How much do hand crew firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for hand crew firefighter in Reno, NV is $59,431.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,400.00 and $68,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Hand Crew Firefighters?

Hand Crew Firefighters are specially trained wildland firefighters who work in teams to suppress wildfires. They use hand tools, such as shovels, axes, and chainsaws, to create firebreaks, remove fuel, and control the spread of fires, often in rugged and remote terrain. Hand crews are essential for containing wildfires, as they perform physically demanding tasks under challenging conditions, sometimes for long hours. Their work is critical in protecting lives, property, and natural resources from fire damage.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hand Crew Firefighter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hand Crew Firefighter, you need strong physical fitness, knowledge of wildfire suppression techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools like chainsaws, shovels, and fire shelters, as well as certifications such as the Wildland Firefighter Type 2 (FFT2), are typically required. Teamwork, resilience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this high-stress environment. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safety, effective coordination, and successful wildfire containment in hazardous conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by Hand Crew Firefighters during wildfire assignments?

Hand Crew Firefighters often work in physically demanding and rapidly changing environments, which can present challenges such as long shifts, exposure to extreme weather, and rugged terrain. Team members must remain alert and adaptable as fire behavior can change quickly, requiring constant communication and coordination. Additionally, they may need to hike long distances carrying heavy gear, and manage fatigue while maintaining safety protocols. These challenges make teamwork, resilience, and strong situational awareness essential for success.

What is the difference between Hand Crew Firefighter vs Wildland Firefighter?

AspectHand Crew FirefighterWildland Firefighter
CertificationsFirefighter 1, S-130, S-190, First Aid/CPRFirefighter 1, S-130, S-190, First Aid/CPR
Work EnvironmentTeam-based, on-the-ground fire suppression, often in remote areasSimilar, involved in fire suppression in wildland areas
Employer & IndustryFederal, state, or local fire agencies; wildfire suppressionFederal, state, or local agencies; wildfire response

Both Hand Crew Firefighters and Wildland Firefighters share similar certifications, work environments, and industry usage. The main difference is that Hand Crew Firefighters typically work as part of specialized hand crews focused on fire line construction, suppression, and containment, whereas Wildland Firefighters may have broader roles including initial attack and support tasks. Both roles are essential in wildfire management and require similar training and qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Hand Crew Firefighter jobs in Reno, NV? For Hand Crew Firefighter jobs in Reno, NV, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hand Crew Firefighter jobs in Reno, NV look for? The top searched job categories for Hand Crew Firefighter jobs in Reno, NV are:
Infographic showing various Hand Crew Firefighter job openings in Reno, NV as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $59,431 per year, or $28.6 per hour.
FIRE CAPTAIN - ELY

$60K - $89K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


State Of Nevada rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 50 rated states


Job description

***THIS RECRUITMENT MAY CLOSE WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE DEPENDING ON THE NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS RECEIVED. APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE*** Job Summary The Nevada Division of Forestry (NDF) is recruiting for one Fire Captain position located at the Ely Industrial Shop. This position, under the supervision of the Battalion Chief acts as a supervisor of a wildland fire module/hand crew with multiple firefighters that participate in all functional areas of wildland fire and resource management.

This includes wildfire prevention, suppression and rehabilitation, fuels reduction treatments, natural resource restoration, and public education. Incumbents function as first-line supervisors who train, supervise and evaluate performance of assigned staff; assign and review work; and initiate disciplinary action. Applicants must be qualified as an NWCG Firefighter I (FFT1 or higher) and have an NWCG Single Resource Boss qualification at the time of application and maintain these qualifications for the duration of employment.

Positions in this series manage, supervise, and participate in wildland fire suppression; fire prevention and education; presuppression; equipment and facility maintenance; and forestry and fire law enforcement. Assist the Forestry Program Manager - Fire to ensure that the components of the divisions Wildland Fire Protection Program are managed and operated in an efficient, accurate and safe manner consistent with federal, State, and division regulations, policies and procedures. Essential Qualifications Associate's degree in fire science or closely related field and three years of firefighting experience; OR Graduation from high school or equivalent education and four years of firefighting experience; OR one year as a Firefighter II in Nevada State service; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience as described above.

Job Duties Manage, supervise and participate in functional areas of fire protection; compile information, develop plans and make recommendations concerning training, prevention, suppression, emergency operations, fuels management, support services and administration; develop plans, regulations, guidance documents and reports on regional wildfire activities; implement and coordinate regional wildfire activities with federal, State, and local partners. Exercise leadership through direct command or implementation of the Incident Command System (ICS). Respond to wildland fires, floods, and other emergencies.

Control wildland fires; build hand lines, fall trees, lay hose lines and direct nozzles; lead dozers; set backfires; direct aerial drops; provide structural protection; and mop up and patrol fire areas to safeguard life, natural resources and structures. Supervise and/or participate in presuppression activities; develop preplans and preattack fire plans; check fire access roads, gates, and water supplies; and review and update dispatch response cards. Supervise and/or participate in hazardous fuels mitigation; determine fuel types and fuel loading; and plan, direct and implement fuels management activities including prescribed burning.

Supervise and/or participate in fire prevention activities; inspect areas designated for prescribed burning; advise land owners of regulations; determine approval/denial of fire permit; check campfires; advise the public of fire danger, safety and fire restrictions; make safety presentations to homeowners, students and civic groups; conduct defensible space inspections; and post signs to educate the public and reduce fire occurrence. Train volunteer fire departments, cooperative fire agencies, and various firefighting personnel; schedule classes or demonstrations; review materials, techniques, and strategies; and provide on-the-job training to improve firefighting techniques and effectiveness. Supervise or maintain fire apparatus and equipment to maintain constant readiness; make daily inspections and follow preventive maintenance schedules; check, clean, sharpen, adjust and make minor repairs to equipment; report mechanical problems and arrange for repairs; and replace used equipment and supplies.

Perform related duties as assigned. Under general supervision of a Battalion Chief, incumbents serve as a shift supervisor with responsibility for utilizing personnel and equipment during emergencies and supervise assigned personnel. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities This job specification lists the major knowledge, skills and abilities of the job and is not all inclusive.

Incumbent(s) will be expected to have knowledge, skills and abilities from a previous level. Working knowledge of: tactics and strategy used in wildland firefighting. Ability to: supervise a fire crew or Engine Company in any call-out situation; apply the principles of the ICS in incidents of moderate to high complexity; evaluate complex situations and request appropriate additional resources; provide firefighting training to assigned personnel; inspect, test and ensure proper operation of all firefighting equipment within a company; maintain records and prepare reports; communicate effectively both orally and in writing; apply principles of fire prevention, inspection and investigation; deal effectively with victims, bystanders and responding personnel in emergency situations.

Recruiter Contact Information: Quinn Ashley - q.ashley@admin.nv.gov The State of Nevada is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building diverse, inclusive, and innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, national origin, religion or belief, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, domestic partnership, genetic information (GINA), or compensation and/or wages. Please send direct Inquiries or correspondence to the recruiter listed on this announcement.


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About State of Nevada

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Nevada isn't a company in the traditional sense, but rather a governing body that manages and directs the operations of the state of Nevada. Its headquarters are located in Carson City, NV, United States. The organisation is engaged in various sectors like education, transportation, business and industry, health and human services, conservation and natural resources, and many more. It is responsible for implementing and maintaining the law and order of the state, in addition to providing essential services to its residents.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carson City, NV, US

Year founded

1864