ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Wildland Firefighting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

$26.79/hr

This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the MODERATE level is a condition of employment. To receive ...

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service

$26.79/hr

This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the MODERATE level is a condition of employment. To receive ...

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsWildland Firefighting Jobs

Wildland Firefighting information

See salary details

$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do wildland firefighting jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for wildland firefighting 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 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.
More about Wildland Firefighting jobs

What cities are hiring for Wildland Firefighting jobs?

Cities with the most Wildland Firefighting job openings:

What states have the most Wildland Firefighting jobs?

States with the most job openings for Wildland Firefighting jobs include:

What are popular job titles for Wildland Firefighting?

Popular job titles for Wildland Firefighting:

Wildland Firefighting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Wildland Firefighting job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

Wildland Firefighter (Engineering Equipment Operator Helper)

On-site

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Public Administration • 10K+ employees
Learn more about U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)external

$26.79/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

United States Department Of Agriculture rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

457th of 857 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

These positions will be located at a USDA Forest Service Unit.
This position assists the fire dozer operator with initial attack, fire, and fuels management activities. The helper assists in support of other natural resource projects.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION for Regional contacts.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. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.
Basic Requirement:
You must possess the Basic Requirements identified below to be considered eligible for this position. Your application or resume must clearly show that you possess the appropriate experience requirements to successfully perform the duties of Engineering Equipment Operator Helper.
Applicants will be evaluated on their ability to perform the duties of the position rather than length of experience. Eligibility will be determined by the relevance, scope and quality of all experience and training, regardless of where or how acquired. Applicants will be assessed based on their knowledge of the job elements identified in this announcement.
Screen-out Job Elements: Applicants who do not meet the screen-out job elements will not be further evaluated.
  • Ability to do the work of the position without more than normal supervision.
In addition to the above requirements, applicants will be assessed based on their knowledge of the job elements identified below:
  • Operation of Motor Vehicles (such as automobiles, pickup trucks, or vans to perform such duties as cutting, moving, digging, grading, and rolling earth, sand, stone, and other materials on flat and stable terrain).
  • Work Practices (includes keeping things neat, clean, and in order)
  • Ability to Interpret Instructions, Specifications, etc. (related to mobile equipment operation)
  • Ability to Drive Safely (Motor Vehicles) Reliability and Dependability as an Engineering Equipment Operator
  • Ability to Operate Safely (Non-Motor Vehicle)
Selective Placement Factors:
  • Position may be required to drive vehicles that require a Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License, based on type or kind of equipment being operated.
  • Incumbent is subject to medical screening and must meet the Federal Wildland Firefighter Medical Qualification Standards for moderate level duty wildland firefighting

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.
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 MODERATE 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 this position.Employment Type: OTHER

What United States Department Of Agriculture employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply