Wildland Engine Boss

Job Type: 1-Year Term (Flexible Schedule Options)  |  Location: Minnesota-based (Nationwide)  |  FLSA Status: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

To apply, email your resume and cover letter to careers@nrp.eco. Please specify which position you are applying for in your email. Thank you!

About NRP

NRP is an ecological restoration and land management company based in Minnesota. Following our Light on the Land philosophy, we conserve and restore native habitat through best management practices — doing what is right by the land first. We are a team of dedicated ecologists, equipment operators, fire practitioners, and nature lovers who are passionate about leaving a healthier landscape for generations to come. We value hard work, reliability, and resilience in ourselves, our company, and our industry. If you care about conserving native habitat and aren't afraid to get your hands dirty to get the work done, we'd love for you to join our team.

Position Overview

NRP is looking for qualified Wildland Engine Bosses - Single Resource (ENGB), to lead and supervise crews on national fire assignments and assist with prescribed fire operations throughout Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, and the Dakotas. You’ll be assigned to a Type 3, Type 5, or Type 6 engine and operate with minimal supervision, completing your assignment and directing your assigned crew.

This is a 1-year term position with flexibility to choose your availability: seasonal part-time/on-call, seasonal full-time, or year-round full-time. Compensation and benefits eligibility are tied to the schedule you select.

Schedule and Compensation Structure

Hours are often weather-dependent for prescribed fire. General workdays are 8–10 hours, with 12–16 hour days during active burning operations. Expect variable scheduling, including weekends, evenings, and inconsistent breaks in hours.

  • Anticipated RX operational season: March–June; October-November

  • Overnight travel beyond assigned shop location: 50%–100%

  • Available schedule types include: Seasonal Part-Time / On-Call; Seasonal Full-Time; or Year-Round, Full-Time

Pay Range: $21.00 – $40.00 per hour | Non-Exempt

Compensation is based on qualifications, experience, expected responsibilities, and schedule type agreed upon at hire. 

Additional Earning Potential: Team members scheduled for specific government-funded contracts or suppression roles may earn an additional $9–$14+ per hour for applicable project time. These assignments are subject to project availability and are not guaranteed.

Benefits

Full-time permanent positions receive a comprehensive benefits packages following a 90-day probationary period. Seasonal and part-time positions may not be eligible for all benefits outlined below:

  • Health insurance (medical, dental, vision, and accident coverage)

  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching

  • Paid Time Off (PTO) and Unpaid Time Off (UTO)

  • Employer paid life insurance

  • Per diem for overnight travel and lodging

  • Annual gear stipend

  • Annual professional training and development stipend

  • Overtime pay for all hours exceeding 40/week

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Lead a single engine and associated personnel on wildland and prescribed fire operations while demonstrating the following:

  • Serve as a positive, professional example to colleagues and constituents of NRP regarding workplace actions, attitudes, decisions, management, and adherence to the employee handbook

  • Maintain situational awareness for the safety of yourself and your crew

  • Demonstrate initiative while working independently with minimal supervision, or as part of a team, to accomplish the goals and objectives of established incident leaders

  • Ensure readiness of trucks and equipment as position requires

  • Provide Leader's Intent: Task, Purpose, End State; motivate; demonstrate initiative in the absence of orders; communicate by giving specific instructions and asking for feedback; supervise

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to pass a Work Capacity Test at Arduous Level (walk 3 miles in 45 minutes with a 45 lb pack)

  • Perform physically demanding labor in hot and highly stressful environments

  • Exposure to fire and smoke; long days with minimal sleep; prolonged hiking over uneven terrain, digging, and standing

  • Ability to lift at least 150 lbs

Required Training and Experience

  • Introduction to ICS (ICS-100)

  • Human Factors in the Wildland Fire Service (L-180)

  • Firefighter Training (S-130 — Field Day Required)

  • Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190)

  • NIMS: An Introduction (IS-700)

  • Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR / RT-130)

  • ICS for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents (ICS-200)

  • Crew Boss, Single Resource (S-230)

  • Engine Boss (S-231)

  • Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (S-290)

  • Satisfactory performance as a Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1)

  • Completion and certification of NWCG Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) Position Task Book (PMS 311-13)

  • DOT Medical Examiner's Certification — required within first 5 days of employment

  • Current driver's license with an acceptable driving record

  • At least 3+ years of relevant experience

Work Authorization

  • Must be authorized to work in the United States

How to Apply

Submit your resume and a brief cover letter to [applications@nrp.com / link to application portal]. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. This position will remain open until filled. No phone calls, please.

Equal Opportunity Employment

NRP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.