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Wildland Firefighting Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Forward Deployed Engineer

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

... wildland firefighting, disaster response, etc. * Passion for goTenna and our mission to build a distributed communication network from the ground-up! ITAR: U.S. Citizen or Green Card Required ...

Forward Deployed Engineer

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

... wildland firefighting, disaster response, etc. * Passion for goTenna and our mission to build a distributed communication network from the ground-up! ITAR: U.S. Citizen or Green Card Required ...

Forward Deployed Engineer

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

... wildland firefighting, disaster response, etc. * Passion for goTenna and our mission to build a distributed communication network from the ground-up! ITAR: U.S. Citizen or Green Card Required ...

Executive Consultant

Washington, DC ยท Remote

$30 - $40/hr

Wildland Fire Workforce Assessment and Planning. * Firefighter Separation Analysis. * Annual 1039 extension requests. * OPM policy initiatives. * FAM organizational restructuring. * Human Resources ...

New

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Adelphi, MD ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense, these Sailors are masters of it all. They also provide training to ensure that all Sailors are ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Annandale, VA

$16.25 - $19/hr

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense, these Sailors are masters of it all. They also provide training to ensure that all Sailors are ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Adelphi, MD

$16.25 - $19/hr

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense, these Sailors are masters of it all. They also provide training to ensure that all Sailors are ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Annandale, VA ยท On-site

$16.25 - $19/hr

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense, these Sailors are masters of it all. They also provide training to ensure that all Sailors are ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Bowie, MD

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense, these Sailors are masters of it all. They also provide training to ensure that all Sailors are ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Gaithersburg, MD

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense, these Sailors are masters of it all. They also provide training to ensure that all Sailors are ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Gaithersburg, MD ยท On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense, these Sailors are masters of it all. They also provide training to ensure that all Sailors are ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Rockville, MD

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense, these Sailors are masters of it all. They also provide training to ensure that all Sailors are ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Largo, MD

$16 - $18.75/hr

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense, these Sailors are masters of it all. They also provide training to ensure that all Sailors are ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Largo, MD ยท On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense, these Sailors are masters of it all. They also provide training to ensure that all Sailors are ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Annapolis, MD ยท On-site

$16 - $18.75/hr

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense, these Sailors are masters of it all. They also provide training to ensure that all Sailors are ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Annapolis, MD

$16 - $18.75/hr

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense, these Sailors are masters of it all. They also provide training to ensure that all Sailors are ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Rockville, MD ยท On-site

$16.50 - $19.50/hr

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense, these Sailors are masters of it all. They also provide training to ensure that all Sailors are ...

Emergency Fire and Rescue

Bowie, MD ยท On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

Trained in firefighting, ship stability and chemical, radiological and biological warfare defense, these Sailors are masters of it all. They also provide training to ensure that all Sailors are ...

Wildland Firefighting information

See Washington salary details

$32.3K

$67.5K

$113.3K

How much do wildland firefighting jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for wildland firefighting in Washington is $67,510.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $78,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to get into wildland firefighting?

Getting into wildland firefighting can be competitive and requires physical fitness, relevant training, and often a certification such as S-130/S-190. Entry-level positions may be available, but experience with outdoor work, firefighting techniques, and adherence to safety protocols improve chances of hiring.

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

To thrive as a Wildland Firefighter, you need strong physical fitness, knowledge of fire behavior, and basic emergency medical training, often supported by completion of courses like S-130/S-190 and a high school diploma. Familiarity with specialized tools such as chainsaws, hand tools, fire shelters, and communication systems like radios is essential. Teamwork, resilience under pressure, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring safety, effective response, and successful collaboration during high-risk, dynamic wildland fire situations.

What is wildland firefighting?

Wildland firefighting is the practice of combating and controlling fires that occur in forests, grasslands, and other natural areas. Wildland firefighters work to suppress wildfires, prevent their spread, and protect lives, property, and natural resources. Their duties include creating firebreaks, using specialized equipment, and sometimes working in challenging and dangerous conditions. The job requires physical fitness, teamwork, and knowledge of fire behavior and safety procedures.

Is 30 too old to become a wildland firefighter?

Wildland firefighting is open to individuals of various ages, and 30 is not considered too old to start. Physical fitness, training, and certifications such as S-130 and S-190 are important, but many agencies value experience and maturity, making age less of a barrier than in some other roles.

What is the difference between Wildland Firefighting vs Forest Firefighter?

AspectWildland FirefightingForest Firefighter
CertificationsFirefighter 1 & 2, S-130, S-190Firefighter 1 & 2, S-130, S-190
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, remote, forested areas during wildfiresForests, national parks, and rural areas during fire seasons
Employer & IndustryFederal, state agencies, firefighting crewsNational parks, forestry services, firefighting agencies

Wildland Firefighting and Forest Firefighter roles often overlap, requiring similar certifications and working in outdoor, forested environments. The main difference lies in terminology and specific job focus, with both roles dedicated to combating wildfires in natural settings.

What are some common challenges faced by wildland firefighters during fire season?

Wildland firefighters often contend with unpredictable weather conditions, rapidly changing fire behavior, and physically demanding work environments. Long shifts, exposure to smoke and heat, and working in remote, rugged terrain require strong endurance and adaptability. Teamwork is essential, as crews must coordinate closely to ensure safety and efficiency, and communication skills are critical when responding to dynamic situations. Additionally, managing fatigue and stress is important, as fire seasons can be intense and extended.
What are popular job titles related to Wildland Firefighting jobs in Washington? For Wildland Firefighting jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Wildland Firefighting jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Wildland Firefighting job openings:
Infographic showing various Wildland Firefighting job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,510 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Forward Deployed Engineer

goTenna

Fairfax, VA โ€ข On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Forward Deployed Engineer

Offering Relocation Assistance

Work Type/Locations: Hybrid in either Fairfax, VA, OR Clarksburg, MD


About goTenna
goTenna is the world's leading mobile mesh networking company, providing off-grid connectivity solutions for smartphones and other devices, as well as augmenting traditional communications networks. This technology enables mobile, long-range connectivity without cell, Wi-Fi, or satellite connectivity. goTenna's products are currently in use by law enforcement, military, and public safety agencies worldwide. goTenna is a wholly owned subsidiary of Forterra, a leading provider of ground autonomy solutions for the US Department of Defense and other organizations.


About the role:

  • The Forward Deployed Engineer is an integral part of the goTenna Customer Experience Team that manages the technical aspects of our company’s relationship with customers that use our Pro line of products. Pro customers include, but are not limited to, local and national Public Safety organizations, U.S. and international military, and other federal government agencies. You will provide accurate technical service and support before and after the point of sale to include both onsite and virtual training, and equipment installation, ensuring customer satisfaction throughout the customer journey.
    As our Forward Deployed Engineer, in addition to being a critical member of our Customer Experience Team, you will also work closely with all of our Marketing, Sales, Product, Engineering, and Solutions Architect teams. On the product and engineering side, you will be instrumental in advocating for our customers by proactively identifying issues and enabling an effective voice of the customer (VOC) program to propose product enhancements, new functionality and new products. On the business development side, you will help win new business by assisting in RFP’s, demos, trade shows and Q&A sessions. As a Forward Deployed Engineer, you should expect your time to be spent between these activities: Technical Support, conducting Onsite/Virtual Training, equipment installations, working with Product and Engineering and supporting Business Development with demo’s, trade shows, and Q&A.
    Up to 50% travel may be required.

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Engage with Public Safety, Military, and other Pro customers
  • Monitor and answer support requests relating to all of our Pro line of products
  • Document current use cases, issues, and opportunities
  • Provide regular reports to leadership on product and customer performance in order to help develop future strategies and roadmap
  • Work cross-functionally with other departments such as Product Management and Engineering in order to successfully troubleshoot technical issues
  • Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements
  • Conduct both Virtual and Onsite training and equipment installations with Customers
  • Support technical presales activities, such as on-site or virtual customer demos
  • Support business development activities such as RFPs, demo, trade shows, etc.
  • Stay up to speed on the latest technological advancements in our industry as well as the latest employment criteria of our customers

Required Experience:

  • 6+ years of professional experience, preferably deploying or utilizing technology products in a Public Safety or Military organization. Some of your experience should have been related to tactical communications
  • Solid technical background with hands on experience in digital technologies
  • An ability to grasp customers’ needs and suggest timely solutions
  • Exceptional organizational, presentation, and verbal + written communication skills
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Physical ability to carry 30 pounds of equipment and work in austere conditions
  • Experience with CRM tools and ticketing systems such as Salesforce or Jira
  • A highly motivated self-starter with outstanding planning and organizational skills with the ability to work independently and communicate effectively
  • A tech-savvy professional, able to explain technical details and requirements to both a non-technical audience and an extremely technical audience via onsite and virtual engagements.
  • A problem-solver with a strong work ethic that can execute and provide quick and effective resolutions to our customers questions
  • Someone who is customer/service oriented and enjoys building strong customer relationships
  • A strategic thinker and planner that is adept at thinking outside the box and has a bias for action
  • Able to lift 30 lbs.
  • An evangelist for our product

Preferred Experience:

  • A passion for dealing in tactical communications and technology
  • Operational experience such as prior active-duty military, law enforcement, or Public Safety experience (either as a full time or volunteer), including but not limited to: emergency management, search & rescue, wildland firefighting, disaster response, etc.
  • Passion for goTenna and our mission to build a distributed communication network from the ground-up!

ITAR: U.S. Citizen or Green Card Required

CLEARANCE ELIGIBILITY - This position may require eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. For more information about U.S. Security Clearances: click here.

Placement at the appropriate job level (entry, senior, etc) will be determined by a combination of years of experience, demonstration of proficiency in this field, and other qualifications.

goTenna is an equal opportunity employer and we value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

goTenna Benefits:

  • Equity
  • 401(k) plan
  • Unlimited PTO
  • Parental Leave with Pay
  • Holiday pay (including December recess)
  • Medical, Dental, Vision and life insurance
  • Pre-tax benefits
  • Short- and Long-term disability plans
  • Professional Development Stipend

Company Description

goTenna is the world's leading mobile mesh networking company, providing off-grid connectivity solutions for smartphones and other devices, as well as augmenting traditional communications networks. This technology enables mobile, long-range connectivity without cell, Wi-Fi, or satellite connectivity. goTenna's products are currently in use by law enforcement, military, and public safety agencies worldwide. goTenna is a wholly owned subsidiary of Forterra, a leading provider of ground autonomy solutions for the US Department of Defense and other organizations.