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Wildfire Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

GFAR FFT1

Spokane, WA · On-site

$16.50 - $19.25/hr

Global Fleet & Auto Repair LLC DBA Global Wildfire Equipment is looking to fill open positions for level FFT1 The Firefighter Type 1 leads a small team, typically no more than seven members, and ...

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Wildfire Firefighter information

See salary details

$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do wildfire firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for wildfire firefighter in the United States is $59,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by wildfire firefighters during a typical fire season?

Wildfire firefighters often contend with physically demanding work, unpredictable weather, and rapidly changing fire conditions that require quick decision-making. The job can involve extended shifts, working in remote locations, and exposure to smoke and heat, which makes maintaining health and stamina crucial. Teamwork is essential, as firefighters must coordinate closely with crew members and other agencies to ensure safety and effective fire suppression. Additionally, adapting to evolving technology and techniques is important for career growth in this field.

What is the difference between Wildfire Firefighter vs Forest Firefighter?

AspectWildfire FirefighterForest Firefighter
CertificationsFirefighter certification, wildfire suppression trainingFirefighter certification, wildfire suppression training
Work EnvironmentActive wildfire areas, remote terrainsForests, national parks, rural areas
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, firefighting departmentsForestry services, government agencies

Wildfire Firefighters and Forest Firefighters often share similar certifications and work environments, focusing on wildfire suppression in remote or forested areas. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Wildfire Firefighter' emphasizes fighting large, uncontrolled fires in wildland areas, while 'Forest Firefighter' may refer to roles within forest management or fire prevention in forested regions. Both roles are vital in protecting natural resources and communities from fire hazards.

What are wildfire firefighters?

Wildfire firefighters, also known as wildland firefighters, are professionals trained to prevent, control, and suppress wildfires in forests, grasslands, and other natural areas. They work in challenging environments, often using specialized equipment and techniques such as creating firebreaks, conducting controlled burns, and operating water pumps. Their responsibilities also include monitoring fire conditions, ensuring public safety, and sometimes assisting in disaster response. Wildfire firefighters may work for federal, state, or local agencies and often face physically demanding and hazardous situations. Training, physical fitness, and teamwork are essential for this career.

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

To thrive as a Wildfire Firefighter, you need strong physical fitness, knowledge of fire behavior, and typically completion of fire academy training and relevant certifications such as Firefighter I/II and Wildland Firefighter certifications. Familiarity with specialized equipment like fire shelters, chainsaws, and GPS systems is essential for safety and effectiveness in the field. Teamwork, resilience, and quick decision-making under pressure are crucial soft skills for managing unpredictable and hazardous situations. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the safety of both the crew and the public while effectively containing and extinguishing wildfires.
More about Wildfire Firefighter jobs
What cities are hiring for Wildfire Firefighter jobs? Cities with the most Wildfire Firefighter job openings:
What states have the most Wildfire Firefighter jobs? States with the most job openings for Wildfire Firefighter jobs include:
Infographic showing various Wildfire Firefighter job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 32% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Job description

It's a great feeling to work for a company that does so much good for others around the world!

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Certification: Firefighter I certification is required. Current EMT certification or license in state of residence is required. Cannot be barred from working in any state. Firefighter II certification preferred. Current NREMT preferred.

Experience: Minimum of one (1) year experience as a firefighter is required.

Required ICS Courses:
ICS 100 - Introduction to Incident Command Systems
ICS 200 - ICS for single resources and Initial Action Incidents
ICS 700 - National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) and Introduction
ICS 800 - National Response Framework, An Introduction
*ICS 300 - Intermediate ICS for Expanding Incidents (must be completed upon hire)
*ICS 400 - Advanced ICS Command and General Staff - Complex Incidents (must be completed upon hire) *Required to be completed within 3 months of hire or will be terminated due to noncompliance.

Summary: National EMR consistently seeks talented and hard-working individuals who are eager to assist impacted communities and first responders on an "as needed basis" as reservist employees. Reservists YOU are part of an elite, all-hazards response cadre who are available to work intermittently, commit to working when needed, and travel/deploy within 24-48 hours. The cadre plays a key role in keeping National EMR ready to deploy the right people in the right jobs quickly in an emergency management situation. These situations could
include hurricane responses, mass shooting(s), wildfire responses, and more. As a company we have responded to every major US incident that has occurred in the last 25 years. We are proud of our record and reputation but recognize we can't do this without our reservists. Reservists are often retired local, state, or federal civil service employees who consider this line of work as a movement or a calling. Is this your calling? Are you ready to serve?

This is NOT a full-time job. Reservists may be deployed to fulfill any role specifically related to the incident, and deployment roles will be based on reservists' skills, performance, and experience. National EMR does not guarantee length or frequency of deployments. YOU will be paid for the actual number of hours worked. Pay scales are based on the job classification as determined by National EMR.

National EMR was built on the premise of filling gaps and serving those with the greatest needs in a disaster. National EMR has spent most of our time in the emergency support functions (ESF) of mass care, emergency
assistance, housing, human services, public health, and medical services as our core mission areas. Reservists are responsible for maintaining personal readiness and your "active/eligible" status. Reservists will be entering into a fast-paced, ever-shifting, high-pressure environment. YOU are expected to perform well, make informed decisions, and be prepared to work nights, weekends, and holidays.

To successfully perform the essential functions of a reservist, the employee may be expected to perform the following, with or without reasonable accommodations, in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Responsibilities and Duties:
1. Understand and adhere to the National EMR Policies and Procedures Manual, Uniform Handbook, and Operations Manual.
2. Foster a culture that encourages team members to work safely, identify potential hazards, and report safety concerns immediately to their direct chain of command.
3. Maintain active status within the agency's platforms, including learning management systems to complete training that may be directed toward self-improvement, mission-specifics, or Just-In-Time (JIT) training.
4. Perform clinic duties as directed or provide medical support or transport services based on the mission assignment.
5. Provide patient care based on the appropriate certification level to all patients outlined within utilizing all basic or advanced skills and techniques outlined within your certification level and medical protocols covered by the CMO.
6. Know and recognize the signs of abuse, neglect, exploitation, and sexually provocative behavior when observing clients and implement professional response, reporting, and documenting procedures.
7. Participate in, or assist, an incident management workforce that will conduct disaster preparedness, response, and recovery initiatives as needed.
8. Other duties as assigned.

Requirements:
1. Maintain current Firefighter I certification in state of residence.
2. Maintain current EMT certification in state of residence.
3. Must be willing to obtain additional licenses/certifications as needed based on locations of mission assignment.
4. Adhere to acceptable standards of professional integrity and accountability in the workplace, and comply with all federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations in all duties.
5. Provide proof of valid driver's license and driving record in good standing with no restrictions (subject to review annually).
6. Demonstrate the ability to:
a. Respond sensitively and competently to the service population's cultural and socio-economic characteristics.
b. Work collaboratively with other staff members, service providers, professionals, and clients.
c. Maintain professional people skills and non-verbal communication skills.
d. Communicate effectively, verbally and in written form, in English.
e. Work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining control and professional composure and making decisions based on the needs of the program and service population.
f. Maintain intermediate to advanced computer literacy (specifically Microsoft Suite).
g. Be detail oriented and organized.
h. Work effectively and without intensive supervision both independently and as a member of a multidisciplinary team.
i. Utilize a variety of communication systems to provide situational awareness across the response (cellular, two-way radio, satellite, etc.).
j. Perform physical activity such as extensive walking, stretching, bending, and occasionally lifting and/or exceeding 50 lbs.
k. Work extended hours and/or non-traditional hours (Ex. Weekends, evenings, holidays, in austere conditions).
7. Upon hire must provide current physical-medical release and provide proof of immunizations, exemptions, or declinations for the following:
a. Influenza
b. MMR
c. Varicella
d. HepB
e. HepA
f. Tetanus
g. PPD, IGRA, or Chest X-ray
h. Meningococcal (preferred)
8. Must successfully pass a scheduled or spontaneous drug screening/background check.

English (United States)

If you like to work with people that believe they can make a difference in the world, this is the company for you!

EEO Statement

In accordance with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and other applicable federal and state laws (e.g., the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), it is our policy to provide equal employment opportunity and treat all employees equally regardless of race, religion, national origin, color, sex,or any other classification made unlawful or prohibited by federal, state and/or local laws, such as age, citizenship status, veteran or military status, or disability. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, promotion, demotion, compensation, training, working conditions, transfer, job assignments, benefits, layoff, and termination.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.