Engine Operator

Engine Operator  – Utah Division of Forestry Fire and State Lands

Do you have a passion for wildland firefighting and implementing wildfire related natural resource projects? Sitting at a 7,000 feet at the base of the Abajo Mountains, Monticello is the ultimate high-altitude playground.  Come enjoy the dark skies, amazing sunsets and cool mountain air of Monticello!  The Utah Division of Forestry, Fire & State Lands is hiring a seasonal Engine Operator/Fire Tech II in San Juan County Utah.  

The Engine Operator/Fire Tech II, is a great position for those seeking to enhance their career in wildland fire. 

In coordination with federal, state and local partners, the Engine Operator works to protect local communities while gaining valuable experience responding to wildland fire incidents, taking fire assignments and promoting responsible land stewardship and wildland fire awareness. With a splash of enthusiasm and a passion for protecting valuable natural resources, this position can be what you envision for the next step in your outdoor career!

This is a seasonal, non-benefitted position, that typically ends on October 31, with opportunities for overtime during peak fire season.  On-call status with the availability to immediately respond to fire is required throughout much of the fire season (June 1 – October 31).  

Typical Work Schedule and Pay Range

Regular working days are Monday through Thursday (10 hour days)

Pay Range:  $24.22- 36.38/hr

Principal Duties

• Perform wildland firefighting and related duties
• Perform natural resource projects and improvement tasks to reduce wildfire risks.
• Operate, maintain, calibrate or adjust specialized wildland equipment.  Collaborate with other firefighters as a member of firefighting crew, squad or engine.
• Transport personnel and cargo to and from fire areas.
• Lead or participate in safety sessions, briefings, and after-action reviews (AAR).  Report and document accidents, injuries, damage, lost or stolen equipment.  Maintain knowledge or current firefighting    practices by participating in training courses and drills.
• Provide for the safety and well-being of subordinates or assigned resources.
• Complete required annual training, mentor, assist or conduct training as required or necessary.
• Evaluate size, location, and condition of wildland fires, protect fire origin(s) to allow for potential investigation, and assess damage caused by fires and prepare reports.  Communicate fire details to superiors, subordinates/adjoining resources or dispatch centers.
• Educate the public about wildland fire prevention by participating in activities such as exhibits or presentations or by distributing promotional materials.

The Ideal Candidate

• NWCG FFT1 qualified; NWCG ENGB qualified
• Complete NWCG S-212 (chainsaws) and obtained FAL3 or FAL2
• Able to complete and pass the arduous-level pack test according to NWCG guidelines
• Has a high school diploma or equivalent
• Has knowledge of fire prevention and mitigation principles
• Is articulate and professional in both verbal and written communications
• Is able to work well with landowners, local, state and federal government representatives and co-workers

TO APPLY:  Send resume to rpmcarthur@utah.gov by no later than February 26, 2026

Why you should join our team

The Engine Operator is involved in all aspects of fire management including suppression, preparedness, mitigation, prevention and training.  This is a challenging, yet rewarding, opportunity for an energetic person who wants to make the most of their career.  NWCG red card qualification and FAL2 (S-212 chainsaw operator) are preferred, but training to obtain those qualifications will be considered for the right candidate. A valid driver’s license is required.