Wildland Firefighter (Assistant Engine Captain) (Direct Hire Authority)

U.S. Department of the Interior; Indiana; On-site; USD 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The U.S. Department of the Interior seeks experienced Wildland Firefighters for the National Park Service. Ideal candidates will have leadership capabilities, experience in fire management duties, and the ability to meet rigorous physical demands. This role involves direct participation in fire suppression, monitoring, and recovery efforts in national parks.

Qualifications

• Prior experience in leading wildland fire operations.
• Capable of performing strenuous physical tasks and passing annual medical exams.
• NWCG incident management qualifications are required.

Responsibilities

• Execute fire management activities including suppression and recovery.
• Lead the Wildland Fire Engine Crew effectively.
• Ensure compliance with physical fitness standards.

Skills

Leadership

Physical fitness

Fire management

Job description

These positions are located in the National Park Service Fire and Aviation Management Division: A Wildland Firefighter at this level is an experienced leader and member of a Wildland Fire Engine Crew, exercising leadership for and executing fire management activities in fire preparedness, fuels management and prevention, fire suppression, monitoring, and post-fire recovery.

Duties

Requirements

Qualifications

REQUIREMENTS CONTINUED:

• Prior to appointment, you must be determined physically fit by an authorized government physician to perform strenuous and physically demanding duties; and also pass a medical examination (which includes vision, hearing, cardiovascular, and mobility of extremities) given by an authorized government physician. You will also be required to undergo periodic medical examinations throughout employment.
• The Work Capacity Test (WCT-Pack Test) assesses an employee's fitness levels for fire qualifications. The arduous fitness test involves completing a three-mile hike within 45 minutes while carrying a 45-pound pack. NOTE: Arduous Work Capacity Test

All qualifications must be met by the closing date of this announcement: 06/17/2025, unless otherwise stated.

Credit will be given for all appropriate qualifying experience. Your resume MUST clearly indicate the duties and responsibilities for each position, including start and end dates (month/year), and reflect full and/or part-time hours worked.

Selective Factors: The applicant must have all the following NWCG incident management qualifications and training requirements:

• Single Resource Boss - Engine (ENGB) (CURRENCY REQUIRED)
• Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5) (CURRENCY REQUIRED)
• Completion of S-211 "Portable Pumps and Water Use" Course (CURRENCY REQUIRED)

This position is covered by the special retirement provisions of 5 U.S.C. 8336(c) and 5 U.S.C. 8412(d) as a Primary/Rigorous Firefighter. Applicants must be 18 but not have reached their 37th birthday by the closing date. These positions have a mandatory retirement age of 57, with exceptions for prior federal service or veterans' preference eligible applicants. Applicants must submit proof of their status.

To Qualify for GS-07

One year of specialized experience at least equivalent to GS-06 in the federal service, such as leading a wildland fire crew, or supervising wildland fire operations like initial attack, suppression, prescribed fire, or helitack operations, including on-the-job training and safety briefings.

Note: If your experience includes both structural and wildland firefighting, ensure your application clearly separates and documents your wildland experience.

Volunteer Experience: Paid or unpaid volunteer work, including through programs like Peace Corps or AmeriCorps, is credited and can provide valuable skills and training applicable to this role.