Fire Engine Operator

About the role

The Wildland Firefighter, Fire Engine Operator (FEO) is a first-line lead worker to a wildland fire engine module in suppressing wildfires. They ensure appropriate work and safety practices are implemented at wildland fires and other emergencies, and ensure successful completion of fire prevention and remediation projects according to project plans. The FEO performs or directs others in starting pump engines, priming pumps, adjusting engine speed and pump valves, laying hose, appropriate nozzle use, and effective use of water and additives. The FEO reports to a Wildland Firefighter Engine Captain and provides direction to firefighters but does not supervise.

Responsibilities

• Provides work direction to a crew of firefighters to ensure appropriate responses in fires and other emergencies, and to ensure the safety of crew members in conjunction with the Engine Captain.
• Directs a crew of firefighters in non-fire assignments such as hazardous fuels mitigation and reduction, building and grounds maintenance, equipment maintenance, and readiness according to plans and directions.
• Assists the Engine Captain with general and daily administrative tasks to maintain crew readiness.
• Inspects, checks, services, and adjusts the pump, hose lays, tank, and reels for equipment readiness.
• Performs or directs others in operating a specialized wildland fire engine, including starting pump engines, priming pumps, adjusting engine speed and pump valves, laying hose, and using nozzles effectively.
• Leads the implementation of tactical objectives set by the engine captain to suppress fires safely and efficiently.
• Continuously assesses weather conditions, fire behavior, and hazards during fire incidents, communicating via digital radio and other methods.
• Acts as an engine captain if qualified and when required.
• Functions as a lookout, relaying fire behavior, fire weather, and changing conditions independently.
• Performs other work as assigned.

Requirements

• Must achieve Firefighter Type 1 certification according to National Wildfire Coordinating Group PMS-310-1.
• Must meet prescribed physical requirements as measured by the Work Capacity Fitness Test at the arduous level.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have:

• NWCG Firefighter Type 1 certification and ICT5.
• Knowledge of power tools and equipment typically used in fire and emergency situations (e.g., chainsaws, pumps, axes, shovels, picks).
• Knowledge of equipment maintenance and safety practices.
• Ability to perform vehicle inspections and minor preventive maintenance.
• Understanding of weather, fuels, fire behavior, fireground hydraulics, and water handling equipment.
• Ability to provide work direction and assignments to others.
• Strong communication skills to convey information clearly and concisely.
• Ability to maintain required physical fitness standards.
• Ability to assess and mitigate hazards during fire incidents.
• Ability to operate or direct others in operating a specialized wildland fire engine.

Working Conditions

Works in a typical office environment and in the field in all types of weather and terrain. Exposed to hazards and strenuous work activity while fighting fires.

Benefits

• $0 premium employee health insurance option.
• Eleven paid holidays.
• Generous vacation and sick leave accrual.
• Dental, vision, and other insurance options.
• Retirement benefits (Class A retirement under SDRS).

Pay

$23.66 per hour (Pay Grade: F).

This position is eligible for Veterans’ Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08. If you possess a National Career Readiness Certificate, you may submit it with your application.