... hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), or other equipment used in firefighting operations ... suppression crew or comparable unit that utilized knowledge of wildland fire suppression ...
... hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), or other equipment used in firefighting operations ... suppression crew or comparable unit that utilized knowledge of wildland fire suppression ...
... hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), or other equipment used in firefighting operations ... suppression crew or comparable unit that utilized knowledge of wildland fire suppression ...
... hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), or other equipment used in firefighting operations ... suppression crew or comparable unit that utilized knowledge of wildland fire suppression ...
Engine Boss
Riverside, CA · On-site
$19.50 - $26.50/hr
... hand crews, fire/liaison officers, and personnel working for or contracted by an insurance company ... Firefighter Type 1 (S-131) * Crew Boss (Single Resource) (S-230) * Engine Boss (S-231) preferred
Engine Boss
Riverside, CA · On-site
$19.50 - $26.50/hr
... hand crews, fire/liaison officers, and personnel working for or contracted by an insurance company ... Firefighter Type 1 (S-131) * Crew Boss (Single Resource) (S-230) * Engine Boss (S-231) preferred
Engine Boss
$19.50 - $26.50/hr
... hand crews, fire/liaison officers, and personnel working for or contracted by an insurance company ... Firefighter Type 1 (S-131) * Crew Boss (Single Resource) (S-230) * Engine Boss (S-231) preferred
Engine Boss
$19.50 - $26.50/hr
... hand crews, fire/liaison officers, and personnel working for or contracted by an insurance company ... Firefighter Type 1 (S-131) * Crew Boss (Single Resource) (S-230) * Engine Boss (S-231) preferred
Hand Crew Firefighter information
See Riverside, CA salary details
$29.7K - $36.5K
4% of jobs
$36.5K - $43.3K
9% of jobs
$47.6K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$43.3K - $50.1K
18% of jobs
The median wage is $56K / yr.
$50.1K - $56.9K
21% of jobs
$56.9K - $63.6K
14% of jobs
$69.2K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$63.6K - $70.4K
11% of jobs
$70.4K - $77.2K
8% of jobs
$77.2K - $84K
5% of jobs
$84K - $90.8K
4% of jobs
$90.8K - $97.5K
3% of jobs
$97.5K - $104.3K
2% of jobs
$29.7K
$62.2K
$104.3K
How much do hand crew firefighter jobs pay per year?
As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for hand crew firefighter in Riverside, CA is $62,185.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,500.00 and $72,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
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 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 is the difference between Hand Crew Firefighter vs Wildland Firefighter?
| Aspect | Hand Crew Firefighter | Wildland Firefighter |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Firefighter 1, S-130, S-190, First Aid/CPR | Firefighter 1, S-130, S-190, First Aid/CPR |
| Work Environment | Team-based, on-the-ground fire suppression, often in remote areas | Similar, involved in fire suppression in wildland areas |
| Employer & Industry | Federal, state, or local fire agencies; wildfire suppression | Federal, 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 Riverside, CA? For Hand Crew Firefighter jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hand Crew Firefighter jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Hand Crew Firefighter jobs in Riverside, CA are:
- Type 2 Wildland Firefighter
- Firefighter No Degree
- Firefighter Salary Nyc Hour
- Freelance Private Wildland Firefighter
- Volunteering Private Wildland Firefighter
- Housing Provided Wildland Firefighting
- Seasonal Wildland Fire Investigator
- Fdny Firefighter Starting Salary
- Firefighter Chief Salary
- Captain Firefighter Salary
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Hand Crew Firefighter jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Hand Crew Firefighter job openings:
$62.57K/yr
Other
Posted 9 days ago
Job description
These positions are located on USDA Forest Service, National Technology and Development Program (NTDP) Center in San Dimas CA and/or Missoula, MT. The equipment specialist position provides expertise and accomplishes projects related to wildland firefighting and fire aviation equipment management.
For additional information about the duties of this position, please contact Victor Cai at victor.cai@usda.gov (San Dimas, CA) and Shawn Steber at shawn.steber@usda.gov (Missoula, MT).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.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-07: Applicant must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GW-5 grade level. Specialized experience is defined as aiding in field evaluations, testing, and/or data collection required for determining usability and service-wide acceptance of firefighting equipment including products for firefighter safety, water handling, aerial delivery, hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), or other equipment used in firefighting operations. Assisting in surveying and obtaining the technical information required to recommend design, fabrication, and evaluation parameters of wildland firefighting equipment. Aiding in the planning, execution, and monitoring of projects evaluating the effectiveness of firefighter equipment for firefighter safety, water handling, aerial delivery, hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), helicopter rappelling, and/or smoke jumping. Trained in reading and interpreting specifications, standards, engineering drawings, statements of work, deviation requests, technical manuals, and other technical publications and documentation related to firefighter safety, water handling, aerial delivery, hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), or other equipment used in firefighting operations.
-OR-
One full year of graduate level education.
-OR-
An appropriate combination of graduate level education and specialized experience; OR Superior Academic Achievement (to determine if you are eligible, go to: http://www.opm.gov/qualifications/policy/ApplicationOfStds-04.asp). The education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work.
For the GW-9: Applicant must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GW-7. Specialized experience is defined as assisting in field evaluations, testing, and/or data collection required for determining usability and service-wide acceptance of firefighting equipment including products for firefighter safety, water handling, aerial delivery, hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), or other equipment used in firefighting operations. Surveying and obtaining the technical information required to recommend design, fabrication, and evaluation parameters of wildland firefighting equipment. Assisting in the planning, execution, and monitoring of projects evaluating the effectiveness of firefighter equipment for firefighter safety, water handling, aerial delivery, hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), helicopter rappelling, and/or smoke jumping. Reading and interpreting specifications, standards, engineering drawings, statements of work, deviation requests, technical manuals, and other technical publications and documentation related to firefighter safety, water handling, aerial delivery, hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), or other equipment used in firefighting operations.
-OR-
A master's or equivalent graduate degree or 2 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree or LL.B. or J.D., if related.
-OR-
An appropriate combination of specialized experience and education (only graduate education in excess of 18 semester hours may be used to qualify applicants for this grade level). The education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work.
Selective Placement Factors
An experience performing on-the-line (Primary/Rigorous) wildland fire suppression duties as a member of an organized fire suppression crew or comparable unit that utilized knowledge of wildland fire suppression, containment or control techniques and practices under various conditions. This experience must be documented with specific dates in the online application or resume.
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.
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a secondary firefighter position under 5 USC 8336 (CSRS) and 8412(d) (FERS). Prior wildland firefighting experience is required. There is no age limit for entry into secondary positions. Firefighter retirement coverage of the incumbent depends upon his or her individual work history.
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:See QUALIFICATIONS section for education requirements.Employment Type: OTHER
For additional information about the duties of this position, please contact Victor Cai at victor.cai@usda.gov (San Dimas, CA) and Shawn Steber at shawn.steber@usda.gov (Missoula, MT).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.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-07: Applicant must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GW-5 grade level. Specialized experience is defined as aiding in field evaluations, testing, and/or data collection required for determining usability and service-wide acceptance of firefighting equipment including products for firefighter safety, water handling, aerial delivery, hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), or other equipment used in firefighting operations. Assisting in surveying and obtaining the technical information required to recommend design, fabrication, and evaluation parameters of wildland firefighting equipment. Aiding in the planning, execution, and monitoring of projects evaluating the effectiveness of firefighter equipment for firefighter safety, water handling, aerial delivery, hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), helicopter rappelling, and/or smoke jumping. Trained in reading and interpreting specifications, standards, engineering drawings, statements of work, deviation requests, technical manuals, and other technical publications and documentation related to firefighter safety, water handling, aerial delivery, hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), or other equipment used in firefighting operations.
-OR-
One full year of graduate level education.
-OR-
An appropriate combination of graduate level education and specialized experience; OR Superior Academic Achievement (to determine if you are eligible, go to: http://www.opm.gov/qualifications/policy/ApplicationOfStds-04.asp). The education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work.
For the GW-9: Applicant must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GW-7. Specialized experience is defined as assisting in field evaluations, testing, and/or data collection required for determining usability and service-wide acceptance of firefighting equipment including products for firefighter safety, water handling, aerial delivery, hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), or other equipment used in firefighting operations. Surveying and obtaining the technical information required to recommend design, fabrication, and evaluation parameters of wildland firefighting equipment. Assisting in the planning, execution, and monitoring of projects evaluating the effectiveness of firefighter equipment for firefighter safety, water handling, aerial delivery, hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), helicopter rappelling, and/or smoke jumping. Reading and interpreting specifications, standards, engineering drawings, statements of work, deviation requests, technical manuals, and other technical publications and documentation related to firefighter safety, water handling, aerial delivery, hand tools, personal protective equipment (PPE), or other equipment used in firefighting operations.
-OR-
A master's or equivalent graduate degree or 2 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree or LL.B. or J.D., if related.
-OR-
An appropriate combination of specialized experience and education (only graduate education in excess of 18 semester hours may be used to qualify applicants for this grade level). The education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work.
Selective Placement Factors
An experience performing on-the-line (Primary/Rigorous) wildland fire suppression duties as a member of an organized fire suppression crew or comparable unit that utilized knowledge of wildland fire suppression, containment or control techniques and practices under various conditions. This experience must be documented with specific dates in the online application or resume.
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.
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a secondary firefighter position under 5 USC 8336 (CSRS) and 8412(d) (FERS). Prior wildland firefighting experience is required. There is no age limit for entry into secondary positions. Firefighter retirement coverage of the incumbent depends upon his or her individual work history.
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:See QUALIFICATIONS section for education requirements.Employment Type: OTHER