Fire Airtanker Base Manager

About the opportunity

The Office of the Secretary of the Interior is seeking four Fire Airtanker Base Managers (GW-0456-09) for the US Wildland Fire Service. These roles involve directing and overseeing air base operations in support of wildland fire suppression, serving as subject matter experts in aviation safety and retardant aircraft limitations, and coordinating with airport management, contractor representatives, and various government partners. Responsibilities include ensuring the safe execution of aviation and ground support activities, developing safety and security plans, and managing resources and personnel.

Salary and benefits

• Annual salary range: $72,832 – $94,687

Who can apply?

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
• Must possess substantial service in a primary firefighter position, defined as either at least one full fire season in a primary wildland firefighting role (e.g., Engine Crew, Hotshot Crew, Smokejumper) or at least 14 days of on-the-ground fireline experience.
• Must have at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GW-08 level or higher in the Federal service, including monitoring aviation operations, coordinating logistical needs for base support, and performing quality assurance of fire chemical mixing and loading.
• Must hold and maintain a valid state driver's license.
• Must be registered for the Selective Service if assigned male at birth after 12-31-59.
• Must be able to pass a drug test and submit to random testing.
• Must be suitable for Federal employment as determined by a background investigation.
• Must be able to travel in small single-engine aircraft.
• Must be able to meet the physical demands of the role, including long irregular hours, standing, walking in high temperatures, and lifting heavy equipment.

Required documents

• Resume (maximum two single-sided pages, minimum 10-point font, 0.5-inch margins) including dates (mm/yy), hours worked per week, and detailed duties. Civil Service employees must include OPM title, series, and grade.
• Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) Master Record or equivalent documentation verifying NWCG minimum qualifications for the IFPM position.
• CTAP/ICTAP documentation (if applicable), including agency notice and most recent SF-50.
• Cover letter (optional).

When to apply

• Applications must be received by 2026-09-11 at 11:59 PM ET.

How to apply

• Create an account or log in to your existing USAJOBS account.
• Follow the prompts to complete the assessment questionnaire and upload required documents.
• Check the acknowledgement checkbox and click the 'Submit Application' button.
• If unable to apply online, request an alternative application from the Human Resources Office.