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Type 1 Wildland Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Type 1 Wildland Firefighter information

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$22

How much do type 1 wildland firefighter jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for type 1 wildland firefighter in the United States is $17.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Type 1 wildland firefighter?

Type 1 Wildland Firefighters, also known as Interagency Hotshot Crew (IHC) members, are highly trained professionals who respond to the most complex and demanding wildland fire incidents. They are skilled in wildfire suppression, including building firelines, performing burnouts, and managing hazardous conditions. Type 1 crews are often deployed to the toughest parts of wildfires and may work in remote areas for extended periods. Their training and experience enable them to handle high-risk assignments and support fire management operations across the country.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Type 1 wildland firefighter?

To thrive as a Type 1 Wildland Firefighter, you need advanced wildfire suppression skills, physical fitness, and completion of required training such as S-130/190 and the arduous pack test. Familiarity with specialized firefighting tools, GPS units, two-way radios, and chainsaws, along with National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) certification, is typically necessary. Teamwork, situational awareness, and the ability to stay calm under extreme pressure are crucial soft skills for this demanding role. These competencies ensure safety, effective response to complex wildfire incidents, and the ability to protect both people and natural resources.

What are some common challenges faced by Type 1 wildland firefighters during a typical fire season?

Type 1 Wildland Firefighters often encounter physically demanding work, unpredictable weather conditions, and long hours during fire season. Working in remote areas with limited resources can be challenging, and team members must adapt quickly to changing fire behavior and safety risks. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as these firefighters frequently collaborate with personnel from other agencies and specialties. Despite these challenges, the role offers opportunities for skill development and career advancement in wildland fire management.

What is the difference between Type 1 Wildland Firefighter vs Type 2 Wildland Firefighter?

AspectType 1 Wildland FirefighterType 2 Wildland Firefighter
CertificationsBasic wildland firefighting certifications, often required for initial entrySimilar certifications, but may require additional training for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentIntense, large-scale wildfires, often in remote areasSmaller fires, less complex incidents, often in less remote locations
Employer & Industry UsageFederal agencies like US Forest Service, BLM, and CAL FIREState and local agencies, often supporting Type 1 teams

Type 1 Wildland Firefighters are trained for large, complex wildfires and often work in remote areas, requiring advanced certifications. Type 2 Wildland Firefighters typically handle smaller fires and may have similar certifications but focus on less intense incidents. Both roles are essential in wildfire management, with Type 1 firefighters taking on more demanding assignments.

More about Type 1 Wildland Firefighter jobs

What cities are hiring for Type 1 Wildland Firefighter jobs?

Cities with the most Type 1 Wildland Firefighter job openings:

What states have the most Type 1 Wildland Firefighter jobs?

States with the most job openings for Type 1 Wildland Firefighter jobs include:

Infographic showing various Type 1 Wildland Firefighter job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,489 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Wildland Firefighter (Type 1 WFM Assistant)

Forest Service

Connell, WA • On-site, Remote

$62K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 8 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

160th of 294 rated public sector bodies


Job description

Summary
These positions are located on a USDA Forest Service Unit.
These positions serve as an assistant to the first line supervisor of a Type 1 Wildland Fire Module (WFM). The primary responsibility is for leadership in highly effective wildland fire suppression and wildland urban interface.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONfor Regional Contacts.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Duties listed are at full performance grade GW-08 level
  • Performs various technical duties that involve differing and unrelated processes and methods. Coordinates the activities of a unit or team of firefighters in wildland fire and all-hazard situations.
  • Provides technical and ecological expertise in the areas of long term planning, ignitions, holding, and suppression, prescribed fire preparation and implementation support, hazardous fuels reduction, and fire effects monitoring.
  • Performs all aspects of wildland fire management and prescribed burn operations, ensuring that preparation, ignition, holding and mop-up activities occur in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Participate with the supervisor to develop and implement a comprehensive physical training program to enhance the ability of crewmembers to perform the required arduous firefighting duties.
  • Work with other resource managers in the development and implementation of prescribed burn plans.
  • The incumbent is responsible for assisting with on-site evaluations of conditions, making tactical decisions, and determining appropriate responses.

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.
  • 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.
  • Under age 37; less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position or a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and is requesting a waiver to the requirement.
  • 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-07 level: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GW-06) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Recognized, reacted to, and communicated changes in predicted weather and fire behavior, topography and fuel types, and adapted planned strategies and tactics to identify and relocate firelines, escape routes, and safety zones; Served as a crew leader for a small fire crew responsible for the suppression of wildland fires and/or fuels management duties; Conducted initial evaluation of fire situation and determined suppression method to use; Conducted formal training in the techniques of fire suppression and prescribed burning, and other slash disposal methods.
For the GW-08 level: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GW-07) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Coordinated the activities of firefighters in wildland fire and all-hazard situations. Adapted planned strategies and tactics to identify and relocate fire-lines, escape routes and safety zones. Monitored safety procedures and practices for a fire module. Implemented a comprehensive physical training program. Assisted with assigning resources, conducting safety meetings, monitoring work quality and quantity, and tracked budget expenditures.
Selective Placement Factors
Successfully completed the Primary NWCG Core Requirements of Crew Boss (CRWB), AND Primary NWCG Core Requirement of Firing Boss (FIRB), and Secondary NWCG Core Requirement of Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5).
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.
Primary firefighter positions include the following age requirements: Under age 37 -OR- less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service worked in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position -OR- a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and is requesting a waiver to the maximum age requirement -OR-currently occupy a permanent position with primary fire fighter retirement coverage.
For those who do not currently occupy a permanent Federal position covered under primary fire fighter retirement, you must be under age 37; less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position; or a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and requesting a waiver to the requirement.
This position has been identified 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 primary/rigorous position covered under the special retirement provisions of 5 USC 8336(c) for the Civil Service Retirement System and of 5 USC 8412(d) for the Federal Employees Retirement System.
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, MODERATE, or LIGHT 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
There is no substitution of education for specialized experience.
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 2: Rocky Mountain Region - Timothy Griffin at timothy.e.griffin@usda.gov
Region 4: Intermountain Region - Bradley Bugger at bradley.bugger@usda.gov
Region 5: Pacific Southwest Region - Brian Grabowski - brian.grabowski@usda.gov
Region 6: Pacific Northwest Region - Shalyn Whitson shalyn.whitson@usda.gov
Region 9: Eastern Region - Brian Hicks at brian.a.hicks@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).
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.
Government housing and federal day care facilities may be available.
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.
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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