Firefighter

Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation; Smith River (CA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Tolowa Dee-ni' Nation is hiring a dedicated Firefighter to protect Tribal lands and conduct cultural burns. This full-time role involves suppressing wildland fires and maintaining firefighting equipment.

Qualified candidates must complete firefighter training and obtain First Aid/CPR certification. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential. Preference is offered to American Indian and Alaska Native candidates in accordance with federal regulations.

Qualifications

• Completion of Basic Firefighter Training is mandatory.
• Certification in First Aid and CPR must be obtained within 90 days of hire.
• Valid state-issued driver’s license is required.

Responsibilities

• Suppress wildland fires using hand tools and hoses.
• Conduct inspections and maintenance on fire equipment.
• Implement traditional fire applications to protect tribal lands.

Skills

Strong communication and customer-service skills

Effective time management

Problem-solving

Knowledge of firefighting suppression techniques

Proficiency in interagency radio protocols

Education

Completion of Basic Firefighter Training (S–130, S–190, CIS–100, L–180, NIMS: IS–700)

Tools

GPS for navigation or mapping

Job description

Firefighter – Tolowa Dee‑ni’ Nation

We are seeking a dedicated firefighter to protect Tribal lands, support preparedness activities, and conduct prescribed cultural burns. This is a full‑time position subject to seasonal layoff based on funding.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We value diversity and are an equal opportunity employer. Preference is given to qualified American Indian and Alaska Native candidates in accordance with the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934 (Title 25, USC, Section 472). Tribal documentation may be required to qualify for Indian Preference.

Education and Experience

• Associate’s degree equivalent to 4 years of experience;
• Bachelor’s degree equivalent to 8 years of experience.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Suppress wildland fires using radio communications, hand tools, hoses, and associated appliances.
• Conduct regular mechanical inspections and preventative maintenance on engine fleet and all hand/power equipment.
• Implement prescribed cultural burns and traditional fire applications to enhance ecological health and reduce hazardous fuel loads.
• Apply water handling techniques and use hand tools for wildfire response.
• Evaluate environmental hazards (weather, fuel) and maintain Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones (LCES).
• Prescribe fire treatments that protect cultural sites and natural resources.
• Inspect, maintain, and ensure operational readiness of apparatus, pumps, tools, and personal protective equipment according to NWCG standards.
• Perform project work such as road and trail maintenance, habitat manipulation, and miscellaneous equipment/facilities upkeep.
• Operate motor vehicles to transport equipment, supplies, and personnel.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge

• General knowledge of common office technologies (computers, printers, copiers, fax machines, standard office software).
• Knowledge of Tribal government operations, policies, and procedures related to public safety and emergency services.
• Understanding of basic firefighting suppression techniques.
• Familiarity with Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones (LCES) system and interagency safety standards.
• Experience with hose lays, water delivery systems, and mobile attack techniques.
• Proficiency in interagency radio protocols and GPS for navigation or mapping.

Required Skills and Abilities

• Strong communication and customer‑service skills.
• Effective time management and organizational skills.
• Ability to follow policies, procedures, and instructions and to communicate proactively with supervisors.
• Confidentiality handling and citizen service orientation.
• Oral communication.
• Maintain accurate inventory records.
• Complete and review incident documentation (ICS forms, after‑action reports, training records, operational logs).
• Problem‑solve and think critically.
• Remain calm under stress.

Required Qualifications

• Completion of Basic Firefighter Training (S‑130, S‑190, CIS‑100, L‑180, NIMS: IS‑700).
• Certification in First Aid and CPR within 90 days of hire.
• Valid state‑issued driver’s license and/or the ability to obtain a California or Oregon license; must be insurable under the Tribe’s insurance policy.

Physical Requirements

• Pass a Wildland Firefighter Medical Qualification Program (MSP) exam and maintain medical clearance with annual re‑evaluations.
• Pass and maintain the NWCG Arduous Pack Test (3 miles with a 45‑pound pack in 45 minutes or less) within two weeks of medical clearance.
• Use hands and arms for office and field equipment; repetitive‑motion tasks for >1 hour.
• Sit >½ workday; stand or walk throughout the day.
• Bend, stretch, twist, crouch, and reach as required.
• View monitors for prolonged periods; frequently lift or move >50 lbs and occasionally >100 lbs.
• Push or pull with moderate force.
• Normal acuity of vision and hearing.

Working Conditions

• Work performed in office and field environments.
• Travel up to 75 % of the time.
• Work may occur in confined spaces, high‑noise areas, and/or high or low temperatures.

Employee Conduct and Policy

All employees must submit to a background check, comply with Tribal, federal, and state laws, and adhere to a drug‑free workplace policy. Employees may be subject to pre‑employment, random, for‑cause, and post‑accident drug and alcohol testing. Qualified American Indian Preference also applies.