Wildfire Crew Lead Type 3
Listed on 2026-07-31
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Business
Emergency Crisis Mgmt/ Disaster Relief
Wildfire Crew Leads are expected to lead by example in the safe, effective, and professional delivery of wildfire suppression services in remote, demanding, and fast-paced environments. This role requires strong leadership, sound judgment, and a solid understanding of Fireline operations, including the duties typically associated with a Type III crew and, at times, responsibilities beyond that level depending on operational needs, crew capability, and incident requirements.
Crew Leads must be able to direct and support their crews through a variety of suppression activities, including hand guard construction, water delivery system operations, pump and hose set-up, power saw use, mop-up, patrol, and other related Fireline duties, while ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with incident objectives.
As the front-line supervisor, the Wildfire Crew Lead is responsible for the safety, well-being, conduct, and performance of the crew while on assignment. This includes maintaining accountability, managing fatigue and fitness for duty, addressing conflict in a timely and professional manner, and fostering a cohesive, respectful, and disciplined team culture. Crew Leads are also expected to represent the company professionally in the field and maintain strong working relationships with BC Wildfire Service and other clients through dependable service, clear communication, accurate reporting, and a high standard of operational professionalism.
While not engaged in active fire response, Crew Leads may be scheduled for base support duties, training, equipment maintenance, physical fitness testing, or project-based work where available; however, as this is an on-call position, non-fire assignments and hours of work cannot be guaranteed and will depend on fire activity, operational requirements, and project availability.
- Lead and maintain a strong safety culture for the crew, ensuring all work is completed in accordance with company policies, client expectations, and safe work procedures.
- Act as the supervisor on the Fireline and in camp, taking responsibility for the safety, well-being, conduct, and accountability of assigned crew members.
- Demonstrate leadership in Fireline operations by planning work, assigning tasks, monitoring hazards, and adjusting as conditions change.
- Ensure effective communication is maintained with crew members, overhead personnel, transportation providers, and other resources on site.
- Safely direct and oversee the use, care, and maintenance of firefighting equipment such as pumps, hose systems, hand tools, and power saws.
- Monitor crew fitness for duty, fatigue, hydration, and overall readiness during sustained operations.
- Travel and work safely in remote areas and under adverse conditions, including smoke, steep terrain, extreme heat, and extended operational periods.
- Ensure all crew members are briefed, equipped, and prepared for daily assignments and emergency scenarios.
- Lead by example through professionalism, accountability, work ethic, and adherence to Fireline and workplace safety standards.
- Build and maintain a disciplined, respectful, and productive crew culture in remote and high-pressure environments.
- Manage crew performance in the field by giving direction clearly, following up on expectations, and addressing issues promptly.
- Actively manage conflict within the crew and resolve interpersonal issues in a timely, respectful, and effective manner.
- Support the development of crew members by coaching, mentoring, and reinforcing safe and efficient work practices.
- Maintain morale and crew cohesion during extended assignments, camp shifts, and high-stress operational periods.
- Adapt leadership style as required to respond to changing incident needs, team dynamics, and operational demands.
- Ensure wildfire suppression services are delivered professionally and effectively in support of BC Wildfire Service or other clients.
- Maintain strong situational awareness and a solid understanding of Fireline tactics, incident objectives, and the scope of duties expected of a Type III crew.
- Be prepared to support duties…
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