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Remote Federal Firefighter Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 21-28

Remote Federal Firefighter information

See California salary details

$28.1K

$58.8K

$98.7K

How much do remote federal firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote federal firefighter in California is $58,826.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,900.00 and $68,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a remote federal firefighter?

Remote federal firefighters are specialized personnel employed by federal agencies to respond to wildfires and other fire emergencies in remote or hard-to-reach areas, such as national forests, parks, and public lands. They are trained to suppress wildfires, conduct controlled burns, and perform rescue operations in challenging environments. These firefighters often work in teams, use specialized equipment, and may be deployed for extended periods in rugged terrain. Their work is critical to protecting natural resources, wildlife, and human communities from the dangers of wildfires in federally managed lands.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote federal firefighter?

To thrive as a Remote Federal Firefighter, you need comprehensive training in wildland firefighting techniques, physical fitness, and knowledge of fire behavior, often backed by certifications like S-130/190 and meeting National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) standards. Familiarity with specialized equipment such as fire shelters, pumps, radios, and mapping/GPS systems is essential. Strong teamwork, decision-making under pressure, and adaptability are critical soft skills for operating safely in isolated, high-risk environments. These skills and qualifications ensure effective fire suppression, personal safety, and coordination with diverse agencies during remote emergency operations.

What are some unique challenges faced by remote federal firefighters, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Remote federal firefighters often work in isolated locations with limited access to immediate support or resources, which can make communication, logistics, and emergency response more challenging. Applicants should be prepared for extended deployments in rugged environments, requiring strong self-sufficiency, adaptability, and teamwork. Familiarity with specialized firefighting equipment and protocols for remote operations is essential, as is the ability to maintain high physical and mental resilience. Building experience in similar environments and staying current with federal firefighting training can help candidates excel in this demanding role.

What is the difference between Remote Federal Firefighter vs Remote Wildland Firefighter?

AspectRemote Federal FirefighterRemote Wildland Firefighter
CertificationsFirefighter I & II, EMTFirefighter I & II, EMT
Work EnvironmentFederal facilities, remote stationsWildland areas, national parks
Employer & IndustryFederal agencies (e.g., FEMA, Forest Service)National parks, forest services
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Remote Federal Firefighters and Remote Wildland Firefighters share similar certifications and work environments, often employed by federal agencies. The main difference lies in their work settings: federal firefighters typically operate in remote facilities or stations, while wildland firefighters focus on outdoor, forested areas. Both roles require similar skills and certifications, but their specific duties and environments differ, catering to different aspects of fire management and prevention.

What are the most commonly searched types of Federal Firefighter jobs in California?

The most popular types of Federal Firefighter jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Remote Federal Firefighter jobs in California?

For Remote Federal Firefighter jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Remote Federal Firefighter jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Federal Firefighter jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Remote Federal Firefighter jobs?

Cities in California with the most Remote Federal Firefighter job openings:

Wildland Firefighter Fire Management Officer (DZAFMO High Complexity)

Forest Service

Bridgeport, CA • On-site, Remote

$67K - $94K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


USDA Forest Service rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

159th of 297 rated public sector bodies


Job description

Summary
These position will be located at a USDA Forest Service Unit.
These positions serve as the District/Zone Assistant Fire Management Officer on a high complexity Ranger District/Zone or Grassland Unit.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION for Regional contacts.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Duties listed are at full performance grade GW-09 level.
  • Organize firefighters, resources, equipment and aircraft to respond to initial and extended attack fire, direct fire line activity to support wildland fire suppression.
  • Utilize wildland fire behavior knowledge and firefighting experience to suppress wildland fires.
  • Assist in wildland fire management planning and coordination to ensure wildland fire support preparedness.
  • Assist in writing and revising interagency annual operating plans, annual budget requests, fire management plans and operating procedures pertaining to wildland fire suppression and prescribed fire to improve fire preparedness.
  • Participate in analysis of incident objectives, strategies, tactics, safety, cost effectiveness, efficiency, and after-action reviews to improve wildland fire activities.
  • Perform administrative and human resources management functions for the unit such as providing advice, counsel or instruction on both administrative and work matters.
  • Establish and communicate guidelines and performance requirements to employees including conducting formal performance reviews and identifying developmental and training needs of employees.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
  • Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service or exempt.
  • Subject to satisfactory adjudication of background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
  • Per Public Law 104-134 all Federal employees are required to have federal payments made by direct deposit to their financial institution.
  • Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit E-Verify.
  • Must be 18 years of age.
  • This is a drug testing designated position. You will be subject to pre-employment and random drug testing. Appointment is based on a negative result. This announcement constitutes 30 days advance notice.
  • Must pass the Work Capacity Test for certain Interagency Fire Program Management or Fire Program Management positions.
  • Subject to one year supervisory/managerial probationary period unless prior service is creditable. New USDA supervisors must successfully complete all components of the required training program before the end of their probationary period.
  • Secondary Coverage: Prior wildland firefighting experience is required.
  • Willing to live/work in remote locations (volatile/unpredictable).
  • Some Fire positions may have Conditions of Employment such as: a valid state driver's license; a commercial driver's license (CDL); pre-appointment and random drug testing; or a physical or medical examination.
  • As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your probationary period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

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.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-08: One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-07) in Federal service. Examples of specialized experience are: Assisted in the development of fire control plans and documentation relating to fire pre-suppression, prevention, detection, and suppression tactics and strategies; Prepared fuels hazard and wildland fire risk assessments; Assisted in the coordination and execution of wildland fire suppression and prescribed burning operations.
For the GW-09: One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-08) in Federal service. Examples of specialized experience are: Assisted in management of a broad range of fire programs such as preparedness, prevention, prescribed burning, monitoring, and hazardous fuels reduction; Assisted in writing and executing wildland fire management plans, prescribed burn plans, and preparedness plans; Assisted in determining annual pre-suppression and suppression needs.
Selective Placement Factors:
Successfully completed the Primary NWCG Core Requirement of Division Group Supervisor (DIVS) and Secondary NWCG Core Requirement of Incident Commander Type 3 (ICT3) or Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 2 (RXB2) -OR- Successfully completed the Primary NWCG Core Requirement of Air Support Group Supervisor (ASGS) and Secondary NWCG Core Requirement of Incident Commander Type 3 (ICT3).
Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) and Forest Service - Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) qualifications must be met by the time of selection. Most recent IQCS master record and/or signed Agency Certified task book must be attached to your application. If you are selected, you may be required to submit an updated IQCS master record or signed Agency Certified task book as proof of attainment of IFPM requirements prior to a final verbal offer.
In order to be considered for this position, copies of your Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) Master Record (or equivalent training documents) which contain documented proof of the certification or attainment of the IFPM Selective Placement Factor for this position MUST be attached to your application. Red cards are not acceptable documentation. Currency Requirement: Required to maintain currency once hired into the position. Currency of NWCG qualifications is not required for selection. If not currently qualified, the applicant must provide documented evidence that they have been fully qualified in the past, and are able to regain currency within one year of being hired. Failure to provide this documentation will result in disqualification.
This position has been identified as HIGH Complexity under the Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) or Forest Service Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) and is subject to selective placement factor requirements contained in the Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) Standard and Guide when filling this vacancy. IFPM or FS-FPM selective placement factors are made up of a primary and secondary National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) core Incident Management Qualifications and Required Training. The applicant must possess these qualifications at the applicable complexity level to be considered eligible for this position.
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.
WORK CAPACITY TEST (WCT) for Wildland Firefighters: This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the ARDUOUS level is a condition of employment.
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
Additional information
For additional information about the duties and location(s) of these positions, please contact regional representative: To see the different locations within the Regional Offices | US Forest Service (usda.gov)
Region 1: Northern Region - Tiffany Counts at tiffany.counts@usda.gov
Region 4: Intermountain Region - Bradley Bugger at bradley.bugger@usda.gov
Region 6: Pacific Northwest Region - Shalyn Whitson shalyn.whitson@usda.gov
Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP), Reemployment Priority List (RPL), or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP): To exercise selection priority for this vacancy, CTAP/RPL/ICTAP candidates must meet the basic eligibility requirements and all selective factors.
These are permanent positions with varying tours of duty and may include weekend work. Some positions may have irregular and protracted hours of work. Tours of duty include full-time or less than full time (guaranteed minimum 13 pay periods full-time employment).
Government housing and federal day care facilities may be available.
The duty station for this position will be at one of the duty locations listed in this announcement. Salary range as shown is the locality pay Rest of U.S. (RUS). Pay rates vary by location. Please visit the Office of Personnel Management's website for additional information on pay rates.
Recruitment or Relocation Incentive may be authorized. Final determination to pay an incentive will be made by the hiring official at time of job offer.
The Forest Service may use certain incentives and hiring flexibilities, currently offered by the Federal government, to attract highly qualified candidates. Additional Information is available on the OPM Website.
Selectee will be responsible for tax obligations related to payments for moving expenses - 2017 Tax Cuts and Job Act, Public Law 115-97. Questions should be directed to the Travel Help Desk, 877-372-7248, Option 1, or email SM.FS.asc_tos@usda.gov
Subject to one-year supervisory/managerial probationary period (unless prior service is creditable). New USDA supervisors must successfully complete all components of the required new supervisory training program before the end of their probationary period.
PROMOTION POTENTIAL: If you are selected for a position with further promotion potential, you will be placed under a career development plan, and may be non-competitively promoted if you successfully complete the requirements and if recommended by management. However, promotion is neither implied or guaranteed.
Positions filled from this announcement may be a bargaining or a non-bargaining unit position represented by either NFFE, AFGE or NAGE.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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