Wildland Firefighter (2024)

Department of the Interior

National Park Service

Everglades National Park

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Summary

These positions are located in Everglades National Park, in the Fire and Aviation Management Division.

Learn more about this agency

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Overview

  • Accepting applications
  • Open & closing dates

    07/31/2024 to 08/14/2024

    This job will close when we have received 100 applications which may be sooner than the closing date. Learn more

  • Salary

    $46,987 - $61,085 per year

  • Pay scale & grade

    GS 6

  • Help

    Location

    4 vacancies in the following location:

    • Homestead, FL
  • Remote job

    No

  • Telework eligible

    No

  • Travel Required

    Occasional travel - You may be expected to travel for this position.

  • Relocation expenses reimbursed

    No

  • Appointment type

    Permanent - Career Seasonal

  • Work schedule

    Full-time

  • Service

    Competitive

  • Promotion potential

    None

  • Job family (Series)

    0456 Wildland Fire Management

  • Supervisory status

    No

  • Security clearance

    Not Required

  • Drug test

    Yes

  • Position sensitivity and risk

    Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk

  • Trust determination process

    Suitability/Fitness

  • Financial disclosure

    No

  • Bargaining unit status

    No

  • Announcement number

    SE-1628-EVER-24-12491065-DE

  • Control number

    801851100

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This job is open to

  • Career transition (CTAP, ICTAP, RPL) Federal employees who meet the definition of a "surplus" or "displaced" employee.
  • The public U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

Clarification from the agency

Applications will be accepted from any U.S. Citizen. DIRECT HIRING AUTHORITY will be used to fill this position.

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Duties

These are Career-Seasonal positions. Career-Seasonal appointments are permanent positions and include the same benefits as Career appointments, but do not provide work on a year-round basis. Selectee is guaranteed to work at least 6 months per year but not more than 50 weeks per year, with the work schedule determined upon appointment. Work schedule and periods of non-pay status are contingent upon funding and operational needs. On an annual basis, employee signs a "career-seasonal" agreement with the supervisor which defines the work schedule for that year. After 90 days in this position, employee's work schedule may be changed to a permanent non-career seasonal position. In which case they will work 12 months per year. You will be placed in non-pay status from 6/01/2025 to 11/30/2025. Anticipated EOD 12/01/2024

The Wildland Firefighter (firefighter) at this level is an experienced member of a wildland fire module or crew, exercising leadership for and executing fire management activities in fire preparedness, fuels management and prevention, and fire suppression, monitoring, and post-fire.

As an experienced member of and/or leader within a wildland fire module or crew in fuels management, fire suppression, monitoring, and post-fire activities, applies an understanding of firefighter safety, fire behavior, topography of the area, weather, fuels, and training in fire management work to direct suppression operations and to recommend and implement tactical strategy on attacking, controlling, or mopping up fires, building or patrolling firelines, cleaning up burned areas within firelines, suppressing spot fires, felling snags or trees, and cutting brush. Prepares control lines for burnout operations and participates in ignition/firing operations. Coordinates with aircraft for aviation support missions. Coordinates module or crew logistics and places caches of equipment and supplies at strategic points.

Drives and operates a wildland fire engine, positioning the engine for proper use and operation based on an understanding of engine capabilities and weight limitations. Personally performs and directs others in starting pump engine, priming pump, adjusting engine speed and pump valves, laying hose, and using appropriate nozzles and nozzle adjustment in effective use of water and additives. May have specialized duties such as water handling specialist or maintenance of specialized equipment used to respond to wildland urban interface/intermix situations.

Directs the operation and use of special tools and equipment such as, but not limited to power saws, portable pumps, firing devices, and communication equipment (e.g., programming radio frequencies), and makes decisions as to when, where, and how equipment can be utilized to the greatest advantage. Provides leadership and on-the-job training to lower graded firefighters on the maintenance and use of equipment and various hand tools. Coordinates and ensures assembly of equipment needed for fire assignments or daily work assignments. Maintains proper inventory of equipment and supplies; refurbishes and resupplies module vehicles, food, water, and other supplies.

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Requirements

Conditions of Employment

  • U.S. Citizenship required.
  • Appointment subject to background investigation and favorable adjudication.
  • Meet Selective Service Registration Act requirement for males.
  • Selectee will be required to participate in the Direct Deposit Electronics Funds Transfer Program.
  • You will be required to submit to a drug test and receive a negative drug test result prior to appointment. In addition, this position is subject to random testing for illegal drug use.
  • You will be required to operate a government (or private) motor vehicle as part of your official duties; a valid driver's license is required. You will be required to submit a Motor Vehicle Operator's License and Driving Record. You must also submit (within a State sealed envelope or submitted directly by the State authorities), and at your own expense, all certified driving records from all States that disclose all valid driver's licenses, whether current or past, possessed by you.
  • You will be required to operate a fire engine and various motor vehicles as part of your official duties; a valid Commercial Driver's License may be required. You will be required to submit your Commercial Driver's License and Driving Record. You must also submit (within a State sealed envelope or submitted directly by the State authorities), and at your own expense, all certified driving records from all States that disclose all valid driver's licenses, whether current or past, possessed by you.
  • Work may require travel by fixed-wing or rotorwing aircraft.
  • You will be required to wear a uniform and comply with the National Park Service uniform standards. A uniform allowance will be provided.
  • You may be required to work on-call, evenings, weekends, holidays, overtime and shift work.
  • If you are a new employee or supervisor in the Federal government, you will be required to complete a one-year probationary period.
  • Subject to frequent extended travel up to 14 nights particularly during fire season, and you must obtain a government charge card for travel.
  • You may be required to complete training and obtain/maintain a government charge card with travel and/or purchase authority.

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 periodic medical examinations throughout employment.
  • The Work Capacity Test (WCT-Pack Test) as a method for assessing an employee's fitness levels for fire qualifications in the positions covered by this recruitment notice. Arduous fitness (WCT-Pack Test) will consist of 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 announcement08/14/2024 unless otherwise stated in this vacancy announcement.

Credit will be given for all appropriate qualifying experience. To receive credit for experience, your resume MUST clearly indicate the nature of the duties and responsibilities for each position, starting and ending dates of employment (month/year), and the resume must reflect full and/or part-time or total number of hours worked (i.e., work 40+ hours a week, rather than indicating full-time). If part-time, the hours must be annotated to be able to pro-rate the amount qualified specialized experience.

Selective Factors: The applicant must have possessed all the following National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) incident management qualifications and training requirements to be considered eligible for this position:

  1. Successfully completed the Primary NWCG Core Requirement of Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) (CURRENCY IS REQUIRED)

-AND-

  1. Successfully completed the NWCG training of Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (S-290) (CURRENCY IS REQUIRED)

-AND-

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 years of age, but not have reached their 37th birthday by the closing date of this announcement. These positions are covered by the special enhanced annuity retirement provisions for Federal Firefighters and Law Enforcement officers and have a mandatory retirement age of 57. Two exceptions are allowed: 1) an applicant has prior Federal service in documented special retirement covered position(s) sufficient to count toward 20 years of covered service on or before the mandatory retirement age of 57; or 2) an applicant is a qualified veterans' preference eligible, in which case the MEA is waived and their corresponding retirement age may be higher than 57 after completing 20 years of service. Applicants must submit proof of their previous and/or current status in the Fire Fighter or Law Enforcement special enhanced annuity retirement system.

-AND-

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS: (OPM Operating Manual, Qualification Standards for Technical and Medical Support Positions and Individual Occupational Requirements for GS-0462: Forestry Technician Series).

NOTE: If your firefighting experience includes both structural and wildland, it is essential that your application materials clearly separate and document your wildland experience.

GS-0456-06

One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-05 level in the Federal service. Examples of qualifying specialized for this position is experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to successfully perform the duties of this position. Examples of specialized experience include: Forestry aid or technician work. Engineering, range, or soil conservation technician work that involved the application of cultural, resource conservation, or land management practices on Non-forest or ranch lands when combined with knowledge of forestry operations and equipment. Farming or ranching work that involved application of cultural and soil and water conservation practices, including safety and use of equipment, and that provided a basic understanding of land use. Forest or range fire control, prevention, or suppression work. Assists the senior position directing the fire suppression efforts of the Engine module, to include directing the engine crew during fire suppression and related functions.

-OR-

One year of graduate level college education in a field directly related to range technician fire work such as a major study in forestry, fire science or a field directly related to this position that has equipped me with the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the duties of this position. A copy of your transcripts is required.

-OR-

Combination of education and experience that is directly related to the work of this position as stated above.

IMPORTANT - PLEASE NOTE: If you are using education to qualify you must submit a legible copy of your transcripts (A copy of your official transcripts will be required before entrance on duty, if selected).

Volunteer Experience: 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.

Education

When submitting college transcripts, you must submit a legible copy of transcripts from an accredited institution with your name, school name, credit hours, course level, major(s), and grade-point average or class ranking. Transcripts do not need to be official, but if you are selected for this position and you used your education to qualify, you must provide official transcripts before you begin work.

If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet qualification requirements, you must show that your education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university.

Additional information

This notice is being issued to recruit personnel to occupations for which a critical hiring need has been identified. To assist in filling these positions, OPM has granted the Department of the Interior "Direct Hire Authority".

A selectee receiving a first appointment to the Federal Government (Civil Service) is entitled only to the lowest step of the grade for which selected The display of a salary range on this vacancy shall not be construed as granting an entitlement to a higher rate of pay.

This announcement may be used to fill additional positions if identical vacancies occur within 90 days of the issue date of the referral certificate.

Physical Demands: Arduous exertion for protracted periods of time such as, but not limited to, extensive running, walking, climbing, kneeling, stooping, pulling hoses, jumping and twisting, prolonged standing, walking over uneven ground, and recurring bending, reaching, lifting and carrying of items weighing over 50 pounds and shared lifting and carrying of heavier items, and similar activities requiring at least average agility and dexterity.

Working Conditions: Forest, range, and desert environments in steep terrain where surfaces may be extremely uneven, rocky, covered with thick tangled vegetation, smoky conditions, etc. Temperatures commonly exceed 100 degrees F and may fall below freezing. Risks include smoke inhalation, fire entrapment, snake or insect bites and stings, exposure to excessive machinery noise, and falling and rolling material. Employee must adjust and cope with exposure to weather elements, dust and smoke, poor bivouac and eating situations under an unpredictable set of circ*mstances. Firefighters may be required to live in backcountry camps for extended periods of time. The hazardous nature of the work requires that personal protective equipment be worn (e.g., boots, hard hat, gloves, flame resistant clothing). Work may require travel by fixedwing or rotor-wing aircraft.

The National Park Service has determined that the duties of this position are suitable for telework and the selectee may be allowed to telework with supervisor approval.

Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) OR Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP): CTAP/ICTAP provides placement assistance to permanent Federal employees who are surplus, displaced, or involuntarily separated. Applicants claiming CTAP/ICTAP eligibility must submit a copy of their most recent performance appraisal, proof of eligibility, and most current SF50 noting position, grade level, duty location with their application. To be considered under CTAP/ICTAP, applicants must be qualified (i.e., meet the minimum qualification requirements, including any selective placement factors; education, and experience requirements), and be able to perform the duties of the position upon entry. For Information on CTAP and ICTAP visit: Career Transition (opm.gov)

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  • Help

    A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

    Review our benefits

    Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

Applicants will be evaluated based on how well they meet the qualification requirements.

Upon receipt of the completed application package, a review of the application will be made to ensure basic qualification requirements are met.

This vacancy will be filled through DOI's Direct Hire Authority. Veterans Preference and traditional rating and ranking of applicants do not apply to positions filled under this Authority. All qualified applicants, as determined by the SHRO, will be referred for consideration. While managers and supervisors are not required to conduct interviews, it is highly recommended that they do so in order to assess the competencies of each applicant.

If an applicant's resume is incomplete or does not support the requirements for minimum qualifications or specialized experience a rating of "ineligible" or "not qualified" will be applied and no consideration for employment will be granted.

If a determination is made that an applicant has inflated qualifications or experience on the resume, the employee will receive no consideration for the position, as per OPM regulations.

  • Help

    A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

    Review our benefits

    Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

  • As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.

    The following documents are required and must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 08/14/2024:

    1. Resume which includes a list of all significant jobs held and duties performed, dates specified in month and year format, and the resume must reflect full and/or part-time or total number of hours worked (i.e., work 40+ hours a week, rather than indicating full-time). If part-time, the hours must be annotated to be able to pro-rate the amount qualified specialized experience. If military or civilian, please include your rank and/or grade.
    2. Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) - If you are applying under CTAP and ICTAP, you MUST submit proof of eligibility under 5 CFR 330.602(a) for CTAP and 5 CFR 330.704 for ICTAP. This includes a copy of the agency notice, a copy of your most recent performance rating, and a copy of your most recent SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) showing your position, grade level, and duty location. Please annotate your application to reflect that you are applying as a CTAP or ICTAP eligible.
    3. Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) Master Record or other equivalent documentation which reflects completion of the required NWCG qualifications for this position.
    4. If a qualified veteran preference eligible as applicable to the Selective Factor Maximum Entry Age (MEA) under the Qualifications Section above: Qualified Veterans Preference Documentation that you meet Exception #2 under MEA:
        1. If you are a Discharged, Non-Disabled Veteran, you must submit a copy of your DD-214 showing character of discharge (Member 4 copy), or other Documentation of Service and Separation under Honorable Conditions, as listed on the SF15. If you don't have your DD-214, you may request it after discharge from the National Archives.
        2. If you are a veteran within 120 days of discharge, you must submit signed documentation from the Armed Forces certifying: 1) your expected release/retirement from active duty, 2) under honorable conditions, 3) your pay grade/rank/rate at time of discharge, 4) dates of active duty service, 5) any campaign or expeditionary medals received, & 6) dated within 120 days of your separation.
        3. If you are a Disabled Veteran, Purple Heart Recipient, or Mother or Spouse of a Disabled or Deceased Veteran, you must submit all additional proof required by the SF15, and if applicable, a completed SF15. You may request a copy of your Department of Veterans Affairs letter from www.ebenefits.va.gov or call 1-800-827-1000 to establish proof of disability.
    5. Other Supporting Documents
    6. Documentation that you meet Selective Factors (IQCS Master List).
    7. College transcripts are required if qualifying on education.

    Do not submit photographs with your application package. Documents with photographs may not be seen by hiring officials - you must remove your image from any badges, licenses, etc.

    Do not upload Adobe portfolio documents. Adobe portfolio documents are not viewable by our agency's staffing offices.

    If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

    Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

    Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

  • To apply for this position: You must complete the occupational questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. To receive consideration, the complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 08/14/2024. You must provide documentation to support your claim for each eligibility selected. Please review the required documentation listed in the eligibilities language to ensure you submit the appropriate information. Note: You will only be marked eligible for those eligibilities that you selected and provided the appropriate supporting documentation.

    WE DO NOT ACCPET HARD COPY OR EMAIL APPLICATION PACKAGES.

    1. Select Apply. If you are not logged in, you will be prompted to login or create an account.
    2. Start the Application Process by selecting "Start Application."
    3. Select or add the resume you want to use for this application. Click here on how to build a resume in USAJOBS.
    4. Select documents you want included in this application.
    5. Review package to acknowledge your documents were reviewed.
    6. Select if you want to include your demographic information.
    7. After reading and certifying the application is true and submitted in good faith, select "Continue to Agency Site."
    8. Follow onscreen prompts and instructions to complete your application.
    9. Add the supporting documents by indexing your documents with the dropdown.
      • Upload any missing required documents or optional documents.
    10. Review and Submit Application.
    11. While logged in, you can check the status of your application by selecting "+" next to the job title for this position.
    12. You can review or revise your application at any point during the open period of the announcement.
      • To update an application, you should log into your USAJOBS account and select "+" next to the job title for this position. Select "Update Application" for this job.
      • Note: When you click Update Application, you will be prompted to re-select your documents from USAJOBS. Documents submitted with the first application will no longer be associated with the applicant record. It is important that you select all documents you want to use in the re-application.

    Agency contact information

    Dalirca Matos

    Phone
    (000)000-0000
    Email
    Dalirca_Matos@nps.gov

    Address
    Everglades National Park
    40001 SR 9336
    Homestead, FL 33034
    US

    Learn more about this agency

    Next steps

    Once the Occupational Questionnaire is received you will receive acknowledgement that your submission was successful. If you are among the qualified candidates, your name will be referred to the hiring official, and you may be contacted directly for a possible interview. You will be notified of the status of your Application Package at the time candidates are referred for consideration, and when the selection process is complete.

  • The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

    • Criminal history inquiries
    • Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
    • Financial suitability
    • New employee probationary period
    • Privacy Act
    • Reasonable accommodation policy
    • Selective Service
    • Signature and false statements
    • Social security number request

Help

Required Documents

The following documents are required and must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 08/14/2024:

  1. Resume which includes a list of all significant jobs held and duties performed, dates specified in month and year format, and the resume must reflect full and/or part-time or total number of hours worked (i.e., work 40+ hours a week, rather than indicating full-time). If part-time, the hours must be annotated to be able to pro-rate the amount qualified specialized experience. If military or civilian, please include your rank and/or grade.
  2. Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) - If you are applying under CTAP and ICTAP, you MUST submit proof of eligibility under 5 CFR 330.602(a) for CTAP and 5 CFR 330.704 for ICTAP. This includes a copy of the agency notice, a copy of your most recent performance rating, and a copy of your most recent SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) showing your position, grade level, and duty location. Please annotate your application to reflect that you are applying as a CTAP or ICTAP eligible.
  3. Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) Master Record or other equivalent documentation which reflects completion of the required NWCG qualifications for this position.
  4. If a qualified veteran preference eligible as applicable to the Selective Factor Maximum Entry Age (MEA) under the Qualifications Section above: Qualified Veterans Preference Documentation that you meet Exception #2 under MEA:
      1. If you are a Discharged, Non-Disabled Veteran, you must submit a copy of your DD-214 showing character of discharge (Member 4 copy), or other Documentation of Service and Separation under Honorable Conditions, as listed on the SF15. If you don't have your DD-214, you may request it after discharge from the National Archives.
      2. If you are a veteran within 120 days of discharge, you must submit signed documentation from the Armed Forces certifying: 1) your expected release/retirement from active duty, 2) under honorable conditions, 3) your pay grade/rank/rate at time of discharge, 4) dates of active duty service, 5) any campaign or expeditionary medals received, & 6) dated within 120 days of your separation.
      3. If you are a Disabled Veteran, Purple Heart Recipient, or Mother or Spouse of a Disabled or Deceased Veteran, you must submit all additional proof required by the SF15, and if applicable, a completed SF15. You may request a copy of your Department of Veterans Affairs letter from www.ebenefits.va.gov or call 1-800-827-1000 to establish proof of disability.
  5. Other Supporting Documents
  6. Documentation that you meet Selective Factors (IQCS Master List).
  7. College transcripts are required if qualifying on education.

Do not submit photographs with your application package. Documents with photographs may not be seen by hiring officials - you must remove your image from any badges, licenses, etc.

Do not upload Adobe portfolio documents. Adobe portfolio documents are not viewable by our agency's staffing offices.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

Help

How to Apply

To apply for this position: You must complete the occupational questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. To receive consideration, the complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 08/14/2024. You must provide documentation to support your claim for each eligibility selected. Please review the required documentation listed in the eligibilities language to ensure you submit the appropriate information. Note: You will only be marked eligible for those eligibilities that you selected and provided the appropriate supporting documentation.

WE DO NOT ACCPET HARD COPY OR EMAIL APPLICATION PACKAGES.

  1. Select Apply. If you are not logged in, you will be prompted to login or create an account.
  2. Start the Application Process by selecting "Start Application."
  3. Select or add the resume you want to use for this application. Click here on how to build a resume in USAJOBS.
  4. Select documents you want included in this application.
  5. Review package to acknowledge your documents were reviewed.
  6. Select if you want to include your demographic information.
  7. After reading and certifying the application is true and submitted in good faith, select "Continue to Agency Site."
  8. Follow onscreen prompts and instructions to complete your application.
  9. Add the supporting documents by indexing your documents with the dropdown.
    • Upload any missing required documents or optional documents.
  10. Review and Submit Application.
  11. While logged in, you can check the status of your application by selecting "+" next to the job title for this position.
  12. You can review or revise your application at any point during the open period of the announcement.
    • To update an application, you should log into your USAJOBS account and select "+" next to the job title for this position. Select "Update Application" for this job.
    • Note: When you click Update Application, you will be prompted to re-select your documents from USAJOBS. Documents submitted with the first application will no longer be associated with the applicant record. It is important that you select all documents you want to use in the re-application.

Read more

Agency contact information

Dalirca Matos

Phone
(000)000-0000
Email
Dalirca_Matos@nps.gov

Address
Everglades National Park
40001 SR 9336
Homestead, FL 33034
US

Learn more about this agency

Next steps

Once the Occupational Questionnaire is received you will receive acknowledgement that your submission was successful. If you are among the qualified candidates, your name will be referred to the hiring official, and you may be contacted directly for a possible interview. You will be notified of the status of your Application Package at the time candidates are referred for consideration, and when the selection process is complete.

Read more

Fair & Transparent

The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

  • Criminal history inquiries
  • Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
  • Financial suitability
  • New employee probationary period
  • Privacy Act
  • Reasonable accommodation policy
  • Selective Service
  • Signature and false statements
  • Social security number request

This job originated on www.usajobs.gov. For the full announcement and to apply, visit www.usajobs.gov/job/801851100. Only resumes submitted according to the instructions on the job announcement listed at www.usajobs.gov will be considered.

Wildland Firefighter (2024)

FAQs

Is the wildland pack test hard? ›

To complete the arduous pack test, participants must finish a three-mile hike across relatively level terrain while carrying a 45-pound pack in 45 minutes or less. An ability to complete the test in 45 minutes suggests an aerobic fitness score of 45, which is the standard for wildland firefighters.

How do you pass the wildland pack test? ›

For the Pack Test, begin by hiking a 3-mile flat course without a pack. When you can cover the course in less than 45 minutes, add a pack with about 25 pounds. Increase the weight until you can hike 3 miles in 45 minutes while carrying 45 pounds. Also, hike hills with a pack to build leg strength and endurance.

Is there a shortage of wildland firefighters? ›

During California's last big fire year, in 2021 when 2.6 million acres burned, the forest service was noticeably handicapped. The agency's firefighter staffing had just fallen below 4,000, where it remains today, and was nearly 700 people shy of that year's target.

Why is wildland firefighting so hard? ›

Furthermore, wildfires are also unpredictable. They may change direction unexpectedly, move in multiple directions, and hop over areas of forest unexpectedly. All of these issues combined can make firefighting dangerous, difficult, and unpredictable.

Can you run during the pack test? ›

46+ minutes for a 3-mile course, wearing the extra 45 pounds might sound like a long window, but here's the kicker: you're not allowed to run. One foot must always have contact with the ground.

How fast do you have to walk to pass the pack test? ›

Pack Test (Arduous Duty): Complete a 3-mile walk over level terrain in 45 minutes or less while carrying a 45-pound pack. Field Test (Moderate Duty): Complete a 2-mile walk over level terrain in 30 minutes or less while carrying a 25-pound pack.

Why are wildland firefighter packs so low? ›

Wildland firefighters wear their packs low on their backs because of how the transfer of weight benefits their mobility. When the center of gravity and the majority of weight goes to the back and hips, they do not feel so much strain on their shoulders.

How much gear do wildland firefighters carry? ›

A wildland firefighter's pack weighs 45 pounds fully kitted out. Sawyer`s packs weigh more. They contain all the necessary tools used to fight brush fires: fuses for backfiring; extra parachute cord; headlamps and spare radio batteries; two days' worth of rations; and above all, our fire shelters.

How fit are wildland firefighters? ›

Entry-level wildland crews must complete a circuit workout that incorporates activities like carrying a water pump (over 60 pounds), going up and down steep ramps, dragging a weighted sled (40 pounds), and wearing the kind of hose backpacks (55 pounds) firefighters wear in the field; passing times vary by province but ...

What state pays the most for wildland firefighters? ›

What Is the Average Wildland Firefighter Salary by State
StateAnnual SalaryMonthly Pay
California$33,711$2,809
Nebraska$33,636$2,803
New Jersey$33,569$2,797
Pennsylvania$33,505$2,792
46 more rows

Is wildland firefighting worth it? ›

Wildland firefighters may be required to work long hours in challenging and changing conditions, such as high temperatures and steep terrain. A career in wildland fire has many rewards, including the opportunity to work in some of the most beautiful places in the country and create friendships that last a lifetime.

What is the top pay for a wildland firefighter? ›

Wildland Firefighter Salary in California
Annual SalaryMonthly Pay
Top Earners$41,450$3,454
75th Percentile$37,500$3,125
Average$33,711$2,809
25th Percentile$32,100$2,675

What kills wildland firefighters? ›

Some of the causes of death in this category include electrocution, lightning, falls, smokejumper training, and murder.

Do wildland firefighters get PTSD? ›

Wildfire fighters see plenty of death, damage, and destruction, and the potential to see a fellow firefighter, or anyone else, lose their life is very real. PTSD can lead to the firefighter experiencing insomnia, flashbacks, bad dreams, depression, and emotional numbness.

How much time do wildland firefighters get off? ›

Some weeks may be 40 hours and some can be 112 hours or more. You won't get lots of time off so don't expect to get a week or even a weekend off in peak fire season. You're a member of the team and it's a quick way to not get hired back if you're not committed to the job.

How hard is the work capacity test? ›

The 3-mile test with a 45- pound pack in 45 minutes is strenuous, but no more so than the duties of wildland firefighting.

Is the fire exam hard? ›

The questions are multiple-choice and video-based. Each Fire Department establishes their passing score, usually relative to past candidates' results. This makes this firefighter test a highly competitive and demanding firefighter test.

How heavy is a wildland fire pack? ›

A wildland firefighter's pack weighs 45 pounds fully kitted out. Sawyer`s packs weigh more. They contain all the necessary tools used to fight brush fires: fuses for backfiring; extra parachute cord; headlamps and spare radio batteries; two days' worth of rations; and above all, our fire shelters.

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