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Engine Boss, Single Resource

ENGB Incident Position Description

The Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) leads and supervises an engine crew, manages associated vehicles, and is responsible for the crew's safety on wildland fire, prescribed fire, and all-risk incidents. The ENGB works in the Operations functional area, reporting to a Strike Team Leader Engine (STEN), Task Force Leader (TFLD), Incident Commander (IC), or other assigned supervisor. 

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Leadership Level 2, New Leader (Convey Intent)

  • For additional information review Level 2 description, expected behaviors and knowledge, suggested development goals, and self-study opportunities.

Prepare and Mobilize

  •  Ensure individual readiness.
  • Travel to and check in at assignment.
  • Gather critical information pertinent to the assignment.

Build the Team

  • Assemble and validate readiness of crew, equipment, and vehicles.
  • Ensure the Incident Action Plan (IAP) or relevant plan lists correct personnel status.   
  • Obtain briefing, objectives, and intent from supervisor.   
  • Brief assigned personnel on situation, mission/execution, communications, service/support, and risk management.

Perform Engine Boss, Single Resource-Specific Duties

  • Develop, implement, and adjust tactics based on incident objectives, fire behavior, risk assessment, and leader’s intent.
  • Scout line in critical areas and patrol fireline.
  • Ensure proper water delivery system design and implementation.
  • Supervise, direct, and lead direct attack operations.
  • Supervise, direct, and lead indirect attack operations.
  • Supervise and participate in firing operations.
  • Ensure proper refurbishing and resupply of vehicles, equipment, and supplies.

Communicate and Coordinate

  • Ensure personnel can effectively use multichannel radios.
  • Ensure effective communication with adjacent resources and supervisors within the established chain of command.
  • Participate in operational briefings.
  • Conduct and/or participate in After Action Reviews (AARs).

Manage Risk

  • Apply the Risk Management Process.
  • Account for location, health, safety, and welfare of assigned personnel.
  • Develop and communicate contingency plans and trigger points.
  • Plan for and manage medical emergencies.

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
  • Kelly Woods, Director of the Wildland Firefighting Lessons Learned Center — Mentoring and Teamwork
  • Doug Booster, Instructor, ProHealth Net, Inc. — Motivation and Vision
  • Pam McDonald, Writer-Editor for the National Interagency Fire Center — Lifetime Achievement Award

References:

Paul Gleason Lead By Example Award

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program (WFLDP)

Leadership Committee

NEW! S-231, Engine Boss Course Available Now

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. 

This is a performance-based instructor-led training (ILT) that focuses on the application of ENGB responsibilities during wildland fire operations, emphasizing readiness, information gathering, risk management, engine tactics, and Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) operations. Trainees apply these skills through scenario-based group work and an optional field day that reinforces hands-on engine operation tasks. 

References:

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

NWCG Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

NWCG Celebrates 50 Years!

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:

NWCG 50 Year Anniversary Video

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

NWCG Incident Commander Type 5 Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal