Wildland Firefighter (Aviation)

Forest Service•Prescott, AZ

4d•Onsite

About The Position

This position is based on a National Forest fire crew within the fire management organization and serves as Airtanker Base Support. The incumbent maintains the airtanker base, aircraft ramp, facilities, vehicles, and equipment. The role involves operating airtanker equipment, supporting aircraft operations, handling fire retardants, and preparing Forest Service reports and records. This is a temporary position for the FY2027 hiring season, with an expected start date between April 18, 2027, and June 13, 2027. The appointment may last up to six months or up to one year on a not-to-exceed basis, may be extended without further competition, and may end early due to lack of work or funds. The position is not eligible for telework. Occasional overnight travel may be required for fire suppression or related assignments.

Requirements

Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with Selective Service or exempt.
Must pass background investigation and/or fingerprint check, as applicable.
Must successfully pass E-Verify employment verification.
Must pass pre-employment drug testing with a negative result and is subject to ongoing random drug testing.
Prior wildland firefighting experience is required.
For GW-05, qualify through one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GW-04; successful completion of a four-year degree program with a major in Fire Science, Fire Training, Fire Technology, or a related field; or a combination of education and experience.
Application and resume must clearly document qualifying experience; transcripts are required when qualifying based on education.
Some fire positions may require a valid state driver's license, a commercial driver's license, pre-appointment and random drug testing, or a physical or medical examination.
Must meet eligibility and qualification requirements by the announcement closing date.
Must use direct deposit for federal payments.
Occasional overnight travel may be required for fire suppression or related assignments.

Responsibilities

Maintain the airtanker base, aircraft ramp, facilities, vehicles, and equipment.
Operate complex airtanker equipment systems whose components must be synchronized or calibrated.
Perform aviation and ground support activities, including servicing and operating batch mixers, tanks, pumps, valves, hoses, and related components.
Mix, store, inspect, test, and deliver fire retardants to specified requirements.
Park and launch firefighting aircraft to and from the base.
Assist with airtanker hot-loading and simultaneous-loading operations.
Compute, compile, and summarize data for recurring and special Forest Service reports and records.
Perform work related to wildland fire suppression, preparedness, prevention, monitoring, and hazardous fuels reduction, as applicable to the position.