Federal firefighters say low pay keeps them off the job Forest Service firefighters start at $13.45 Some firefighters are saying that the pay is too low for federal employees. Forest Service firefighters start at $13.45 an hour which is below California's minimum wage. and last updated 2021-06-04 13:24:31-04 SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KERO) â Federal fire crews are struggling to keep stations staffed as the state deals with this year's fire season. Some firefighters are saying that the pay is too low for federal employees. Forest Service firefighters start at $13.45 an hour which is below California's minimum wage. Union officials say crews are struggling to pay their rent. Making it harder to stay despite the increased need.