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Wildland Firefighting Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Wildland Firefighting information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$32.4K

$67.8K

$113.8K

How much do wildland firefighting jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for wildland firefighting in Seattle, WA is $67,832.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,800.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

Is it hard to get into wildland firefighting?

Getting into wildland firefighting can be competitive and requires physical fitness, relevant training, and often certifications such as S-130 and S-190. Entry-level positions may be accessible to those willing to undergo training and demonstrate resilience, but experience and fitness levels can influence hiring chances.

What are popular job titles related to Wildland Firefighting jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Wildland Firefighting jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Wildland Firefighting jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Wildland Firefighting jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Wildland Firefighting jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Wildland Firefighting job openings:

Wildland Firefighting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wildland Firefighting job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,832 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Wildland Firefighter (Prevention)

North Bend, WA

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service
See more jobs at Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Serviceexternal

$57K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

These positions are located on a USDA Forest Service Unit.
The primary purpose of the position is fire prevention and wildland fire management. This position is responsible for development, implementation and administration of the unit's Fire Prevention Program and also functions in initial attack fire suppression.
See ADDITIONAL SECTION information about the duties and location.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:
GW-06: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GW-05) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Performed suppression operations and instructed others during initial attack or assisting with prescribed burns; Gave formal talks and informally provided information on fire prevention laws, rules, and regulations; Issued various permits and ensured users were in compliance with rules and regulations.
GW-07: 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: Assisted in development and presentation of educational programs; performed extensive public contact work in providing information on fire prevention/protection issues; Issued burning or campfire permits with regards to fire danger levels, and monitoring them for compliance/non-compliance. Assisted in gathering, processing, analyzing fire risks, hazards and values needed to prepare prevention plans; Performed initial attack on fires and serving as an incident commander or implementing prescribed burn plans.
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:There is no substitution of education for specialized experience.Employment Type: OTHER

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