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Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss)

FFT1 Incident Position Description

The Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss) (FFT1) leads a small group (usually no more than seven individuals) and is responsible for their safety on wildland and prescribed fire incidents. The FFT1 supervises resources at the Firefighter Type 2 Crewmember (FFT2) level and reports to a Single Resource Boss [Crew Boss (CRWB), Heavy Equipment Boss (HEQB), Engine Boss (ENGB), Felling Boss (FELB), Firing Boss (FIRB), or Helicopter Manager (HMGB)] or other assigned supervisor. The FFT1 works in the Operations functional area.

The FFT1 performs position duties commensurate with all incident complexities and characteristics stated in the  Interagency Standards for Fire and Fire Aviation Operations (Red Book).

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Leadership Level 1, Follower (Provide Action)

  • For additional information review Level 1 description, expected behaviors and knowledge, suggested development goals, and self-study opportunities.

Prepare and Mobilize

  • Ensure individual readiness.
  • Gather critical information pertinent to the assignment.
  • Review Incident Action Plan (IAP) and obtain briefing, objectives, and leader’s intent from supervisor.

Build the Team

  • Assemble and validate readiness of crew, equipment, and vehicles.

Supervise and Direct Work Assignments

  • Brief assigned personnel.
  • Identify, analyze, and use relevant situational information to make more informed decisions and take appropriate actions.
  • Adjust actions based on changing information/situation.
  • Monitor performance and provide immediate and regular feedback.

Perform Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss)-Specific Duties

  • Locate and scout the fireline.
  • Act as a lookout.
  • Implement appropriate line construction tactics and methods.
  • Mentor and train assigned resources in safe firefighting practices.

Perform Fireline Duties

  • Coordinate and provide feedback to aerial resources.
  • Identify spot fires and slopovers.
  • Provide status updates on conditions affecting operations, hazardous conditions, air operations, etc. to supervisor.
  • Follow protocols as directed for the protection of natural, cultural, and other resources.
  • With limited supervision, execute tasks assigned by the supervisor.
  • Participate in Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) operations according to guidelines stated in the NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG), PMS 461; incident-specific objectives and guidelines; and agency-specific guidance.

Communicate and Coordinate

  • Communicate effectively.
  • Use multichannel radios correctly.
  • Conduct and/or participate in After Action Reviews (AARs).

Manage Risk

  • Apply the Risk Management Process.
  • Ensure Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones (LCES) are established and known.
  • Ensure own and others’ safety and welfare in all aspects of the job.

Document

  • Complete all administrative tasks and documentation in an accurate and timely manner.

Demobilize

  • Prepare for and implement demobilization.

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NWCG Latest Announcements

2024 Paul Gleason Award Winners Announced

Date:  March 13, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Leadership Committee

The NWCG Leadership Committee is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Paul Gleason "Lead By Example" awards. Award categories include Initiative and Innovation, Mentoring and Teamwork, Motivation and Vision, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Congratulations to the awardees:

  • Justin Baxter, National Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations Specialist, with the U.S. Forest Service — Initiative and Innovation
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Paul Gleason Lead By Example Award

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Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident Operations Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce the new S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) incident qualifications. 

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S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) (Instructor-led)

NWCG Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) Position Page

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Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: NWCG Executive Secretary

NWCG is proud to celebrate 50 years of service to the wildland fire community. Beginning in 1976 with an interagency agreement between the Department of Interior and Department of Agriculture, NWCG has grown to include additional member agencies and is recognized as the standard-setting leader in wildland fire operations.

To honor where we’ve been and highlight where we are going, the NWCG team has created a video showcasing our history and accomplishments. The video is now available on the NWCG website.

References:

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NEW! S-131, Firefighter Type 1 Course Available Now

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident Operations Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce the new S-131, Firefighter Type 1 course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this course is a performance-based instructor-led training (ILT) that focuses on the application of situational awareness and decision making, building on the knowledge and concepts introduced in previous required courses. Using a threaded fictitious fire, each unit focuses on a performance-based activity in which students practice applying their decision-making and problem-solving skills.

The S-131, Firefighter Type 1 course is required for individuals seeking qualifications to be a Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss) (FFT1) or an Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5).

References:

S-131, Firefighter Type 1 (Instructor-led)

NWCG Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss) Position Page

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