Kbr Vs Wsi??

[ABH2Crash]

I am trying to find any kind of payscale for KBR but can't find it anywhere or if anyone can confirm the pay over there I would appreciate it. I heard from a friend who spent a year in Kuwait w/ KBR that the living conditions were pretty good and her lowest monthly pay was 9 grand. She was usually making about 11 grand a month. Anyone have any tips on KBR or is WSI the better deal? All opinions appreciated. I searched the contract post for a while but I have a slow connection....sorry to have anyone repeat themselves. I appreciate it.

Brian

[firepoppa]

First off, KBR is not in Kuwait. They have departments in the green zone in Baghdad, and Afganistan. This company, www.csakuwait.com, is the only fire service provider in Kuwait. Check out their site for more info.

[firezapper]

EDITED TO SHUT UP THE WHINEY COMPANY MEN

[KuwaitC1]

CSA provides fire protection services for most locations in Kuwait. KBR is located at one camp and the sea port.

[gruntman]

Looks like some one is not very happy.

[firezapper]

EDITED TO SHUT UP THE WHINEY COMPANY MEN

Happy now, losers? {{{{Insert diabolicall laughter here}}}}

[surfingpirates]

That last post brings me to this question. Are they guys out there willing to teach the newer firefighters a things or two about their job? I mean I'm about done with my 4 yrs in the Air Force as a firefighter. I managed to get some good cert's because I wanted to get as many as possible before I leave. In my eyes im missing experience. That’s the most important thing because experience comps cert’s on the fireground.

[firezapper]

EDITED TO SHUT UP THE WHINEY COMPANY MEN

[gruntman]

Zap

Do you have any problems with fire prevention??????

GS-0081 Fire Prevention Inspector 1994-2004

[Firepipercfd]

Zapper,
Seems like you're a little bitter about something. You also do an awful lot of talking about experience. How about sharing some of your background. I have been in the fire service long enough to know that when experience speaks, I listen. Typically, those who've been around the block (worn out the knees on a couple of pairs of bunker pants), go quitely about their business and help those who ask for it...seems to me that the ones making all the noise like to hear themselves talk and should spend a little more time listening.
So, you're allegedly here in Iraq...what do you bring to the table (besides a bad attitude)?
FirePiper

[pyromike66]

Zapper,
Typically, those who've been around the block (worn out the knees on a couple of pairs of bunker pants), go quitely about their business and help those who ask for it...seems to me that the ones making all the noise like to hear themselves talk and should spend a little more time listening.
FirePiper


Very true. Couldn't have said it any better.

[firezapper]

I have nothing against fire prevention. I have plenty against someone with VERY LITTLE other than fire prevention under his belt being put in a LINE officer position.

Said lieutenant has managed to prove it's not a good idea.

As for you other two, just because I'm not parading my experience out here for you to see doesn't mean I don't have it. No bitterness either. I don't have any desire to be an officer here or get any certs.

My point in all this is that the company doesn't give a damn about anything BUT pieces of paper. Pay attention before you open your keyboard, idiots.

Funny how this is supposed to be a free forum but damned if the company men don't come out in force to trounce those who dare to point out that the witch has warts.

[factsaboutiraq]

I have nothing against fire prevention. I have plenty against someone with VERY LITTLE other than fire prevention under his belt being put in a LINE officer position.

Said lieutenant has managed to prove it's not a good idea.

As for you other two, just because I'm not parading my experience out here for you to see doesn't mean I don't have it. No bitterness either. I don't have any desire to be an officer here or get any certs.

My point in all this is that the company doesn't give a damn about anything BUT pieces of paper. Pay attention before you open your keyboard, idiots.

Funny how this is supposed to be a free forum but damned if the company men don't come out in force to trounce those who dare to point out that the witch has warts.


Well now Zapper, you have gotten on the web and blasted everyone and everything...
Haven't heard a word yet about how you, as a professional firefighter are going to do anything to help correct your perceived issues.

Let's start with your new LT. Instead of telling the world about how unfair it is and how terrible the guy is, why not take some of this incredible knowledge you possess...and work with him so that he can improve and meet your lofty expectations. That is what a true professional would do. We have all, at one time or another, had young LT's who needed help from the line to improve and I have seen a few of them actually become great LT's.
You will probably say that it's not your job to train LT's. Wrong, it is everyone's responsibilty to pass along to each other the knowledge we have gained in this work. That includes LT's.

As for your comments on training and certs. Someone said you should persue leadership 1 academy training.
Your response was to call him a company man and a sell out.

YOU are the sellout. You want the world to revolve around how you think it should be done, but aren't willing to take on the responsibilities of an Officer or even attempt to get the training. Again, a TRUE professional sees a problem and goes about trying to fix it by teaching , learning, listening and offering constructive advice to resolve the issues. If you don't like the way things are, shut up and get to work on fixing it by changing your status within your department.
As for the company man mantra that you will no doubt throw back at me... the company has kept its end of the bargain. I have been here almost two years and have received every paycheck. I have paid off all of my bills, received a couple of certs that I can use for the rest of my career.

What you call a company man, I call a guy who is loyal to the company that helps him meet his finacial goals and keep a roof over his families head. Loyalty is a two way street, you seem to live on a "one way" street. I don't think many will waste any tears on you.

You also said something about losing money while traveling and attending classes. Ask the other contractors if they can get classes while at work and to what level they can get certed. They will tell you if they get any at all, they do it on their own time and own dime. If you travel and attend training here, YOU ARE GETTING PAID TO DO IT!!! Get over it.

[firezapper]

Ever heard of sarcasm, a$$wipe?

Signed, the professional sh#t-stirrer.

Kindly note I didn't call you a company man either. Long-winded sumbi#ch, but not a company man.

[firezapper]

Me? Negative? Never!

Damn it, I was really in the mood for a doughnut!

Tikcuf9905, where you been man? I just started posting the other day, but I read this crap all the time. Enjoyed your input.

[FIRESKEITH]

CNN showing the worse news so my family can worry about my safety when I'm safer here then in the local bar...

cost: spending my phone minutes assuring family i'm safe

Movies recorded by HaJi with audience standing in front of the screen and
coughing during the tourning point....

cost: $5 and a grainy picture

Reading FireH forum drama of good vs. evil on my KBR internet

Priceless

Ever notice KBR FFers are never on here posting ANYTHING AT ALL? Am I wrong about that? If so correct me please. I'm open to all

[h20squirter]

What the he## does KBR pay its firefighters anyway?

from one of the cats i came into country with a couple months back, he had just crossed from the really dark side over here to the slightly less darkside it was around $96k a year. which, with just 6-16's we're making that, and if you get 7-16's its closer to $104k for us here on the becoming beyond micro managed side.

[rscamaro73]

.............................

[galebagram2u]

Ain't that the truth brother.
All the stuff that I tried to put out of my head when I first came over - well, I've lived it. Sucks to say the least.

There's no cure for poor leadership. If anyone knows what the cure is, please let ME know.....

I hear nukes are pretty effective, great blast range as well.

[h20squirter]

I hear nukes are pretty effective, great blast range as well.

i'm going with satellites and Tomahawk cruise missles, great effect and no fallout, now UN approved!

[scorpionff67]

I'm a WSI FF and it sucks being here, The lack of leadership makes this job harder than it should be. If you have a choice GO KBR.

[cowfire]

You think going to KBR will be any BETTER. Man, there are a handful of other contracts out there. Dodfire.com govtjobs.gov I have talked to different people that work for these others and yes they pay little some pay little less and others really less but seem to enjoy working for there companies!

[ohsmokeeater]

My first question would be of those that come from an organized and structured department back in the states. Does your department have a minimul time served before you can become an officer or do they just promote you cause they like you even though you have little fire experience.

Second question, does your department take the brand new guy and place him as engineer or does he have to learn how the nozzle end of the job first.

Third question, does your department back home take the brand new guys with no experience and put them in charge of training, prevention, vehicle maintenance just to give them something to do or do the look to the guys who have been around the block to run these areas while showing the new guys the ropes.

I really would like to know if there is departments back in the states that take brand new guys and place them in key roles while expecting the seniour guys to teach them how to perform those functions. Now I understand the volunteer network and understand the difficulties with getting members these days let alone getting members to show up to the scene.

[bgdddy]

What the he## does KBR pay its firefighters anyway?

For those of you that still want to know what KBR firefighters are paid, it is $84,000 a year. They work 24 on 24 off. Now for why you don't see many of them posting out here, that should be pretty obvious.

[ACFD118]

who is the best contractor to work for over there in iraq? and who pays the best. from those of you who have been there email me at acfd118@yahoo.com and drop me a line. Ive seen a lot of advertisements for wsi, and never heard anything of the others. A web site or anything woul dbe of great value. Thanks

[KBRfiredog]

For those of you that still want to know what KBR firefighters are paid, it is $84,000 a year. They work 24 on 24 off. Now for why you don't see many of them posting out here, that should be pretty obvious.


not everywhere. here we're working 48 on 24 off. base pay is 3,018 a month based on a 40 hour week. our work weeks rotate between 104, 112, and 120. add in the extras like hazardous duty pay and its a nice little chunk of change at the end of the month.

i dont know why its obvious that we wouldn't be posting on here...can someone fill me in?

[osmermb]

First off we work 24 on and 24 off with the pay about 96 a year. From what I've read leadership sucks on both sides. As far as KBR if you have the min certs you get promoted I have yet to see anybody get turned down. I'm leaving KBR in about two weeks and going to WSI, So I hope its better. And we do have Fire fighters in Kuwait.

[bm4455]

Scorpian Here is a solution to your leadership problem GO HOME!

[KBRfiredog]

so we have a WSI guy that likes KBR and a KBR guy going to WSI because they both think the leadership is screwed up. makes contract firefighting look great huh? i think its got more to do with what base you're at not the whole company. i've got no complaints about where im at. everyone from the chief down know what they're doing and take care of the department. maybe you should think about transferring to a different base instead of switching companies. or, i know this might sound crazy, but why not try to do something about the problems??

[Firerider69er]

If any firefighters could please post some good facts about the job in Iraq, it would help me very much. WSI is what I'm looking for. I got the web site info, but would like some info from the people there or who have been there. Whats the shift consist of, as to work hours? Pay, benefits,size of the dept.
Are you able to keep up on your certs, like quarterly requirements?? What are the living conditions? I gather you are required to stay on the base? For safety sake. Shed some light. Right now I work for a sub of WSI in Florida, but looking into going to Iraq for the $$$$. Any help with the info would be great and as much of it as possible. Thanks alot

[h20squirter]

if u look at some of the other threads there is a lot more info on life over here. my $.02 on the whole deal here is like this. Come over here with an open mind, stay positive (it will be tough at times) just keep telling yourself your here for that nice dose of reality every 2 weeks and keep your eye on your next R&R. as far as life over here it is as varied as there are bases. some bases are big, some really really small. some places live in tents, some have nice big metal buildings, some are in old iraqi hard structures. as far as shifts, you work either 6 days a week or 7 days a week 16 hours a day, and your are on call the other 8 hours. pay is somewhere between $90k-105k depending on how many 7's you get and how much you run at night. bene's you get insurance for no cost, u can opt out and get some more money each month. but don't listen to any tards that tell you that hey your in iraq everything is covered, well no its not, and if your on R&R and break a leg (it has happened) you are paying for it all out of pocket. you leave base, you get fired easy as that, you won't want to go out there anyways. size of the depts vary, smaller ones are 15 or so guys, bigger ones are pushing 40 or so. land size, some u could run the perimeter and barely break a sweat, some you could drive it and still take 40min. any more ?

[firezapper]

Scorpian Here is a solution to your leadership problem GO HOME!

Spoken like a true blue WSI officer.

[FireFly61875]

how much are KBR paying?

[jl]

How the hell does one get hired with KBR?? I have applied many times online (over the past year or so), no luck. I was a FF w/WSI in Iraq as well as career FF stateside before that. Not really looking anymore, but just wondering how they decide? Seems like its easier to win the lottery.

[FireOfficerTrue]

How the hell does one get hired with KBR?? I have applied many times online (over the past year or so), no luck. I was a FF w/WSI in Iraq as well as career FF stateside before that. Not really looking anymore, but just wondering how they decide? Seems like its easier to win the lottery.

All I can suggest (which you may already have done so) is go to www.kbrjobs.com and upload your resume. If you have ARFF from a legitimate school/training organization, or the military, your chances are better. They're even better if you have Paramedic. If you don't have ARFF at all, or you got it through Bucks College, or one of the other paper mills, you can probably forget it. Better off going with WSI, but I wouldn't recommend it! CSA is another option, they are in Kuwait, but sounds like their pay is not good at all. There is also Atco/Frontec, but they don't sound real good either.

Unfortunately at this time, due to the Democrats and their BS, rumor has it that it doesn't sound like anyone is being hired anywhere at the moment. Once a budget is approved, it'll probably open back up. Only time will tell. I heard no one is processing through right now (but not 100% sure, it is just a rumor)

[jl]

Is medical part of KBR Fire's mission in Iraq/middle east? ALS meds/equipment carried on the rigs? If not, there should be no preference for medics. If it is part of the mission, how do their medics get the necessary CEs, etc??
Already did the WSI thing. Wasn't all that bad.

[FireOfficerTrue]

Is medical part of KBR Fire's mission in Iraq/middle east? ALS meds/equipment carried on the rigs? If not, there should be no preference for medics. If it is part of the mission, how do their medics get the necessary CEs, etc??
Already did the WSI thing. Wasn't all that bad.

Yes, we (KBR Fire) responds to pretty much every medical here on the base. Many of our guys are EMT's and a couple are Paramedics. When I was with WSI, we didn't do medicals at all, in fact our O2 was ordered removed from all trucks, and we were also told to shelve any AED's we had.

I know of a couple guys who quit WSI because they were lied to, and told they did EMS. When they got there, they found out otherwise and demobed (oh wait a sec, "We didn't lie to you, the TRUTH just changed!")
Some of them had recently got EMT and wanted to stay current on their EMS protocols. Unfortunately, they found out otherwise.

Unless things have changed with WSI (which I doubt) we didn't do any Hazmat, Rescue or Technical Rescue. Strictly fire and ARFF only. Was it the same way where you were?

What base were you at with WSI? I'm sure it was probably much better there! I heard that over 20 recently demobed within the last couple months from my old site. Again, it all falls on whoever your SSL is/was.

[BFDNJFF]

IMO keep the EMS lol :D

[FireOfficerTrue]

WSI FF's hours are predominantly 16 hour shifts (or 12 to 14 if you work prevention) 6 or 7 days a week. So either 96 hours, or 112 hours per week, depending on your situation. You live at the station 24/7. There is an 8 hour period from 2300hrs. to 0700 hrs., that you do NOT get paid for, but you have to stay at the station on standby. You cannot leave UNLESS you are on your off day (if you get one!) Keep in mind, you are NOT getting paid for that 8 hours that you are required to be there on standby.

If a response comes in during those 8 standby hours, only then will you get paid, but it is in 15 minute increments. So if you go out on a BS run, false alarm, and you are only out for a few minutes, you will not get paid for the full time you are out. The clock stops ticking once you terminate. Never mind the drive time back to quarters, you're not getting paid. Then, if it takes 30, 45 or 60 minutes (or more) to fall back to sleep, oh well.

We had a guy get in trouble last year because he left to go to the MWR after 2300hrs, thinking he was off duty. He felt since he wasn't getting paid for those 8 hours, he was free to do what he wanted. Not true!

Just something to think about.

[BFDNJFF]

so how does one go to the gym if they can't leave?

[Tikcuf9905]

The clock stops ticking once you terminate. Never mind the drive time back to quarters, you're not getting paid.



Wrong you are there, Sparky. It's rack to rack. As in from the time of dispatch to the time you're released to go back to bed after returning to quarters and making sure apparatus/equipment are ready to go. I would/will usually be the LAST guy to defend WSI on anything, but there's enough to bash without bashing on incorrect information.

[FireOfficerTrue]

Wrong you are there, Sparky. It's rack to rack. As in from the time of dispatch to the time you're released to go back to bed after returning to quarters and making sure apparatus/equipment are ready to go.

So WSI owes me and the other guys I worked with some back pay if what you say is true, because WE were told by our "higher ups" when filling out our time sheets, the clock stopped at the termination time. The only time we did get paid the full time was on extended incidents, where we had to clean up and re-service after a big job. All in all, everything STILL had to be approved by sending a request for additional time to HQ's in Baghdad.

So you are partially correct, but not completely.

To answer the other guys question about how you get to the gym: Some stations (but not all) have gyms in them, otherwise, you take the truck to the gym as a crew (again at certain bases) to work-out for a limited amount of time. However, if one guy doesn't want to go. . . . . , it's harder to get there. But some personnel (non-fire) complain if/when they see the trucks parked outside or near the gym (same thing with the BX/PX) especially if it is parked for any extended length of time. At least thats how it was where I was at.

The exercise equipment at most fire stations is limited and so-so at best. Many cases, it is a far cry from the stuff you may see back home.

[Tikcuf9905]

No, I'm right, not partially. Even on a BS call you get paid for the entire time you're out. Come on dude, it's NOT the company's fault that on a BS call there's not any need to put equipment back in service. Time ends when you return to the station, NOT at termination. What the hell do you expect? To be paid for the 30-45 minutes it takes you to fall back to sleep?

Maybe things have changed since you left, I don't know. I never really paid attention to the exact amount of time we got paid for during "after hours" responses.

Holy crap, I can't believe there's someone here who's such a sour grapes knucklehead that I'M the one defending WSI! I'm gonna be sick. No, NOOOO Chief! Keep that Kool-Aid away from me! I won't drink it! It is NOT a cure for being sick! HELLP MEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!

[Sparkstyson]

It is my understanding that the pay is 90,000, 82,000 tax free. I make about 35,00 so it is double what I make plus 82,00 is tax free. So why is everyone complaining? Do you want to go over there and save the world or make money? I am starting to fear my decision to go because you guys describe it as being a terrible experience. Why is that?
Is the brotherhood of firefighters broken by the border crossing?

Is it that bad?

I want to go over
1 for the money
2 to see a little of the world on someone else's dime.
3 for stories to tell my grad kids.

[jl]

FireOfficerTrue--what did you do to get hired w/KBR? Online? Did you go to Houston and schedule an inteview?

[garypoe4454]

Dear Firefighters:



The Notice of Class Arbitration has been approved by the Arbitrator and we anticipate it being sent by mail within the next couple of weeks.



Additionally, our website now contains information regarding the class action, including the demand for arbitration, information on the arbitrator and our law firm, and two of the arbitrator’s rulings.



Feel free to check it out at www.EmploymentLawTampa.com/about.jsp





Candy Stead, Assistant

Law Offices of Cynthia N. Sass, P.A.
601 West Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd

Tampa, Florida 33603
(813) 251-5599 - Phone

(813) 259-9797 - Facsimile

www.EmploymentLawTampa.com

[firedawg151]

bro i think that KBR is the way to go.. they've got three location that i know of right now.. the green zone, basra, and
Al hilla at this very moment but its tuff to get on though cause they are having transfers coming in like crazy from other locations that were closed..

but trust me though from some one thats worked both contracts KBR pays much better than WSI but i know nothing of this CSA company so check them out first..

later and take care..

[jl]

Thats what I was asking earlier: what does one have to do to get hired with KBR? Their online website alone doesn't seem to get it done.

[peterbound]

Seriously?
I heard WSI paid more.. this is the first i've heard of KBR being the better paying of the two, and even though WSI paid more they were both still pretty equal in terms of pay.. i've also heard that KBR might be losing the contract.. any truth to that rumor?
so far the only advantage i can tell that KBR has is that it runs medicals.. but i can keep up my CEU's online or with monthly classes.. will just miss going on them.
-pete

[FireOfficerTrue]

Seriously?
I heard WSI paid more.. this is the first i've heard of KBR being the better paying of the two, and even though WSI paid more they were both still pretty equal in terms of pay.. i've also heard that KBR might be losing the contract.. any truth to that rumor?
so far the only advantage i can tell that KBR has is that it runs medicals.. but i can keep up my CEU's online or with monthly classes.. will just miss going on them.
-pete

WSI works 16 hour days, pretty much every day. You may get one day of a week (96 hours), or you may work 7-16's (112 hours) That is, if WSI has not changed the structure. Keep in mind, you are only paid for those 16 hours. There is an 8 hour period you are not paid for (and at this time, WSI is being sued/abitrated because of that!) Where you MUST stay at the station, you cannot leave during those 8 hours (2300 hrs to 0700 hrs), unless it IS your day off) because you are on standby.
KBR FF's work 24 on/24 off at $84,000 a year, unless it has changed with the new year. Make your own determination as to who pays more!

As for KBR losing the contract, they only lost Kandahar, mainly because it is now predominately a NATO controlled base, and they brought in ATCO/Frontec (some Co. out of Canada, in fact I guess they pay you in Canadian Dollars) But there are supposed to be (or should be) other opportunities coming up shortly. All I can say is put together as impressive of a resume as possible, post/submit it to: kbrjobs.com, and check their site often.
I've heard rumors of another Co. losing a contract soon, but I won't go there either, because all it is, is just that: a rumor.

[djxfire]

WSI works 16 hour days, pretty much every day. You may get one day of a week (96 hours), or you may work 7-16's (112 hours) That is, if WSI has not changed the structure. Keep in mind, you are only paid for those 16 hours. There is an 8 hour period you are not paid for (and at this time, WSI is being sued/abitrated because of that!) Where you MUST stay at the station, you cannot leave during those 8 hours (2300 hrs to 0700 hrs), unless it IS your day off) because you are on standby.
KBR FF's work 24 on/24 off at $84,000 a year, unless it has changed with the new year. Make your own determination as to who pays more!

As for KBR losing the contract, they only lost Kandahar, mainly because it is now predominately a NATO controlled base, and they brought in ATCO/Frontec (some Co. out of Canada, in fact I guess they pay you in Canadian Dollars) But there are supposed to be (or should be) other opportunities coming up shortly. All I can say is put together as impressive of a resume as possible, post/submit it to: kbrjobs.com, and check their site often.
I've heard rumors of another Co. losing a contract soon, but I won't go there either, because all it is, is just that: a rumor.

yes just that a rumor.this is the contract world they come and go, everyone s still waiting to see whats going on with logcap 4 ,so saying that if KBR dose not get the full contract like they have now.witch they wont. because is going to be three company, kbr being one maybe they will get the logistic part and thats a maybe, so both company could be out, but who knows

as far fireofficertrue or captain s yes i know who u are. so all u new guys reading this stuff dont belive everything this guy has to say some might be true u dont know untill u get here and at your base thing can be mess up but for the most part thing are good hes just mad because he didnt get recon

[FireOfficerTrue]

as far fireofficertrue or captain s yes i know who u are. so all u new guys reading this stuff dont belive everything this guy has to say some might be true u dont know untill u get here and at your base thing can be mess up but for the most part thing are good hes just mad because he didnt get recon[/QUOTE]

Learn how to spell, GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!! Uneducated moron!

No, that is NOT the case, I'm not mad at all that I wasn't recontracted. I wasn't mad then, and I'm not mad now! For the record, I wouldn't have gone back with WSI/WSLLC if they were paying $500,000! No way, no how. You (company) sheep just don't seem to get it, you just keep right on drinking that poison kool-aid, k?

Since you are SO into saying how great, how awesome, and perfect WSI is, ignoring all of the fraud, deception and everything else that goes on, I'm sure, the company man you are, you're also going to send in that Exclusion form in regards to the Class Action against the company to not be part of it. or are you? Hmmmmm, decisions, decisions.

[FireOfficerTrue]

As someone who has been on both sides, WSI/WSLLC and KBR, here are some facts to use in comparing both companies. Look them over and make your own determination about who you want to try to contract with.

1. R&R's:

WSI/WSLLC: First year employees get 3, 10 day paid R&R's (1 R&R roughly every 120 days) Your R&R days start the first full day AFTER you arrive home, and normally ends the day BEFORE you leave home. Second year employees get 10 days paid R&R and 5 days LWOP (leave without pay) IF you want to take it. Third year, I don't know. WSI/WSLLC pays $860 towards airfare each R&R. You pay any additional (deducted from your pay unless you book it all yourself)
R&R's MUST be taken within 15 days before, or 15 days after each 120 day mark.

KBR: First year employees can take up to 16 days R&R every 120 days (of which 10 are paid, the remaining days are LWOP) Your R&R days start the day you leave DXB and ends on the date you arrive back at DXB. You MUST arrive back at DXB by the 16th day. Second year employees can take up to 21 days, with the same details as first year. Third year, I don't know. KBR pays $860 towards airfare each R&R. You pay any additional (deducted from your pay unless you book it all yourself)
R&R's can be taken almost anytime once you hit the 120 day mark, or a bit earlier if desired. Can also wait a few months past the 120 days and take it. You could figuratively take an R&R, come back for a week and take another! However, you can't double them up and take 2 R&R's back to back.

2. Pay:

WSI/WSLLC: Firefighters salary is $90,000, Lieutenants $100,000, Captains $109,000, and up etc. depending on position. With overtime, the amounts will be higher.
Paydays are every 2 weeks.

KBR: Firefighters salary is $84,000, Crew Chiefs $102,000, and up etc. Again, with overtime, the amounts will be higher depending on position.
Paydays are once a month.

3. Shifts:

WSI/WSLLC: Shifts may vary, from 12 hours/7 days a week, 16 hours/7 days a week, 16 hours/6 days a week. Normally, you will get 1 day off a week unless manning levels are low. Dispatchers will work 12's, as do the inspectors. Unless they've changed, there's an 8 hour standby period (2300-0700) you're not paid for unless there is a response to an emergency.

KBR: Firefighters/Operations shifts are normally 24 on/24 off. However, not ALL sites are the same. KBR Firefighters in Iraq do 48's on/24 off. Dispatchers and Inspectors work 7/12's.


4. EOC's/End of Contract:

WSI/WSLLC: At the completion of one year, you are required to take your final R&R/End of Contract. Usually, you'll be home on your 364th day. If you opt for a second year, you'll get about 45 to 47 days before you must return (10 of which are paid days) Return trip home is paid in full.

KBR: At the completion of one year, you can opt to stay on. You aren't required to leave. You can do a year and a week, a year and a month, or six more months, etc. Its up to you. Return trip home is paid in full.


5. Selection/Hiring Process:

WSI/WSLLC: Apply on line, or by sending an e-mail, resume attached to krisklusinski@..... (not sure what it is) Then wait. Eventually, you may receive the phone interview. If accepted, you'll receive a large packet to complete, with the offer letter inside for you to sign. Fill in uniform sizes, gear sizes, etc. You must have a physical done at/by your physician prior to leaving, which the results of the physical must be sent in before leaving home (the cost of the physical you'll be reimbursed for). You must also have a passport prior to leaving. You'll spend an average of 5 days in Houston (unpaid), watching videos, attending a few classes (some with KBR like NBC and hostage stuff), and filling out forms, etc. Your Hotel in Houston (as well as meals at the processing center) are paid for by WSI.
Then off you go! But you won't usually know where in Country you'll be assigned until you've been at Baghdad a few days.

KBR: Apply online, submit resume online to www.kbrjobs.com Once/if you receive a call, you'll be told about the position, all the details, the pay structure broken down by week/month/year (pay days are once a month). You'll also receive a phone interview. Once you confirm your interest, you will need to take what is called a WABI test (workplace attitude & behavioral inventory test) Which is offered at numerous test centers throughout the U.S. (and is scheduled for you by KBR) you must call a 1-800 number to arrange it. Once you complete the test (and the results say you passed) you will be contacted by the recruiter with further information (your deployment date, etc) If you fail the WABI test (and many often do) you are inelligible for hire for 6 months. You will then receive a log-in and a code to log-in on-line to enter information to do your background check, and you will also be required to do your emergency contact data, etc. Once your background check comes back ok, you'll receive confirmation from KBR travel as to your actual deployment date (departure from your home of record). You'll also have a pretty good idea where you'll be stationed before you even leave home (although, keep in mind it is subject to change based on the mission needs) which is specifically stated in your contract.
Physicals are done (and paid for by KBR) in Houston, (Hotel and meals at the processing center are paid for by KBR) passports, if you need one it will be processed there (which KBR has a fast track on, and they pay for it). But I would recommend having one prior to going. You'll also receive any shots you may need. You'll attend classes every day for about the first 5-6 days (2nd day is medical) Fail the drug test and you'll be sent home (my group had about 40-50 fail it & a few didn't even bother to chance it, so they never even showed up that morning). HIV is also checked (fail and go home) Many of the classes are pretty dry. Once everything is completed, including final background, you wait on standby and attend nightly standby meetings. You could be in Houston (unpaid) for as short as 7 days, but expect to be there longer (10-12 is the average) Some end up waiting much longer.
Then, off you go!

6. Promotions

WSI/WSLLC: If you are selected to attend any of the leadership classes (LA1, LA2, etc) shortly afterward, you'll be promoted to that next level once you hold the certs. You submit a package, but is is more of a formality than anything. You COULD figuratively be promoted very quickly during the year from Firefighter, to Lieutenant, to Captain. You could even make A/C within one year. All you need are the certs, and the lack of any disciplinary actions.

KBR: Certification classes are a little harder to come by, but if you hold the certs and wish to be promoted to Crew Chief, or lead firefighter, you submit your package. A board is held where you will be asked a number of questions pertaining to issues such as fireground tactics, SOP's, etc. If the consensus among those of the panel agrees, you'll get the promotion.

I hope this answers many questions about the process. The rest is up to you. Some sites are great, some not so great. Some leadership is also great, and then. . . . .some not so great. Getting hired, and who you choose to contract with is up to you. But, I will say it is significantly easier to get contracted with WSI/WSLLC.

[djxfire]

as far fireofficertrue or captain s yes i know who u are. so all u new guys reading this stuff dont belive everything this guy has to say some might be true u dont know untill u get here and at your base thing can be mess up but for the most part thing are good hes just mad because he didnt get recon

Learn how to spell, GOD!!!!!!!!!!!!! Uneducated moron!

No, that is NOT the case, I'm not mad at all that I wasn't recontracted. I wasn't mad then, and I'm not mad now! For the record, I wouldn't have gone back with WSI/WSLLC if they were paying $500,000! No way, no how. You (company) sheep just don't seem to get it, you just keep right on drinking that poison kool-aid, k?

Since you are SO into saying how great, how awesome, and perfect WSI is, ignoring all of the fraud, deception and everything else that goes on, I'm sure, the company man you are, you're also going to send in that Exclusion form in regards to the Class Action against the company to not be part of it. or are you? Hmmmmm, decisions, decisions.[/QU


Name calling and im the moron thats ok uneducated no but thats ok too

never said it was great, and im not at HQ so i do not know what go's on up there, but i do know what going on at my base.ok u want to talk about fraud let see how much dose kbr have to pay back ? how many kbr people have been let go from my base for drinking and drugs let see 50 in the last month
so everyone have there troubles,
and about the class action paper already done company man im not

[ke4lyy]

As someone who has been on both sides, WSI and WSLLC and KBR, here are some facts to use in comparing both companies. Look them over and make your own determination about who you want to try to contract with.

1. R&R's:

WSI/WSLLC: First year employees get 10 days paid R&R's. Your R&R days start the first full day AFTER you arrive home, and normally ends the day BEFORE you leave home. Second year employees get 10 days paid R&R and 5 days LWOP (leave without pay) IF you want to take it. Third year, I don't know.

KBR: First year employees can take up to 16 days R&R (of which 10 are paid) Your R&R days start the day you leave DXB and ends on the date you arrive back at DXB. You MUST arrive back at DXB by the 16th day. Second year employees can take up to 21 days, with the same details as first year. Third year, I don't know.

Thanks for the info given here. I do have a question for clarification on the leave. In my talks with WSI and in talking with someone who had worked for them I was told that every 120 days there is a 10 day RR for a total of 30 days in your contract. That is with some travel days attached as well, for instance 2 days before and after. Your post hear indicates only 10 days for the whole year? Could you straighten me out on this?

Thanks,
Tom

[FireOfficerTrue]

how many kbr people have been let go from my base for drinking and drugs let see 50 in the last month


At least KBR gets RID of them when they are caught!!!! I know of several WSI FF's who were, ahem, "fired" and then brought back with WSI! Including guys driving the T3's with an adult beverage in their hand! I know of guys who were "fired" while in Houston and the rehired, only to be fired again! I know of a guy who pulled a knife on someone while at Victory, he was written up and then sent to a base that already had its share of problems! Only to cause MORE problems and was then transferred to another base! Or the FF who had all the stolen military equipment (including a military tactical radio) in his footlockers who was fired (finally) after about 1/2 a dozen infractions and behavioral write-ups. The company chose to brush it under the rug as though it never happened. They didn't want it to bring any negative attention on the Co! And he was only fired because KBR's SAFETY recommended it! WSI wanted to keep him on!

[gruntman]

Hang in there, I need to get up to Minnesota for some ice fishing.

[gimmiedairons]

At least KBR gets RID of them when they are caught!!!! I know of several WSI FF's who were, ahem, "fired" and then brought back with WSI! Including guys driving the T3's with an adult beverage in their hand! I know of guys who were "fired" while in Houston and the rehired, only to be fired again! I know of a guy who pulled a knife on someone while at Victory, he was written up and then sent to a base that already had its share of problems! Only to cause MORE problems and was then transferred to another base! Or the FF who had all the stolen military equipment (including a military tactical radio) in his footlockers who was fired (finally) after about 1/2 a dozen infractions and behavioral write-ups. The company chose to brush it under the rug as though it never happened. They didn't want it to bring any negative attention on the Co! And he was only fired because KBR's SAFETY recommended it! WSI wanted to keep him on!

FireOfficerTrue, alas, The Birdman of Al Asad! We meet again! When are you going to grow up and stop spreading your half truths, rumors and lies? Anyone that has ever worked for you or with you in Iraq knows the real truth about you! So, stop pretending to be an "Officer" in the Fire Service and quit before foul up again!
Oh yeah, have you vented any fires without thinking lately? Hey, also, have you left the scene of any incidents to go look for air bottles?

[mrffmike]

My first question would be of those that come from an organized and structured department back in the states. Does your department have a minimul time served before you can become an officer or do they just promote you cause they like you even though you have little fire experience.

Second question, does your department take the brand new guy and place him as engineer or does he have to learn how the nozzle end of the job first.

Third question, does your department back home take the brand new guys with no experience and put them in charge of training, prevention, vehicle maintenance just to give them something to do or do the look to the guys who have been around the block to run these areas while showing the new guys the ropes.

I really would like to know if there is departments back in the states that take brand new guys and place them in key roles while expecting the seniour guys to teach them how to perform those functions. Now I understand the volunteer network and understand the difficulties with getting members these days let alone getting members to show up to the scene.


I'll tell you that my stateside department does exactly that. They take new guys and put them in key roles with lots of responsibility in an effort to teach through self learned experience instead of by example and training. Training? Did I say training? Wow, that would be a concept for my department. Instead of actual real life training on things we actually do, instead we have to get "trained" and certified in things like, using the weight room, or driving a utility truck. So I'm guessing that Iraq won't be anything new for me.

[mrffmike]

Wait Wait Wait just a, minute here....I heard somewhere here that your not covered by WSI's health insurance when your on R&R????? If that's the case then your pretty much paying for your Workman's Comp., not health coverage.... Anyone?

[FireOfficerTrue]

and stop spreading your half truths, rumors and lies?

Have you not responded to any fires lately, even when called? Have you ignored your radio lately and not responded, even after hearing the call for all available resources? If not, you're not living up to you're reputation or modus operandi!
Yeah, I know who YOU are! "This is the first structure fire I've ever ran command on!!! Huh?? What??? I also understand that you saw your first, actual working fire in Iraq! First of all, That fire had already vented itself within minutes of arrival. Maybe, just maybe if you'd have showed up when the all hands was called, you might have realized it! Additional command staff was needed way earlier that night than when it actually arrived, and YOU KNOW THAT! Rather than waiting nearly 1 1/2 hours!!! I've NEVER vented anything I was not supposed to. I have fought more fires than you've ejaculated to. And you were supposedly an A/C????? You're an idiot.
What I post here are not 1/2 truths. Everything I have posted here is TRUE FACT! I am not a liar, I have a good conscience about what I do, despite everything that others may have heard. I don't condone theft, drinking on duty or even driving the trucks with alcohol in your system. I don't condone misappropriation of equipment, or horseplay that could get someone killed (T-3000 incident) But I wasn't about to kiss someones a** to get someplace. Unlike some who worked under YOU!
I'll be the first to admit there are a lot of very upstanding firefighters who served in Iraq. And there are some who are still there. And some Officers who were the cream of the crop. But if you don't know the facts on someone, don't go on nothing more than hearsay. I am truthful about everything I do and say. Too bad the same cannot be said for yourself! You contributed to the dog and pony show that was Al Asad!
I see you are no longer with them! Either you are incredibly smart, or incredibly dumb.
Oh, and about the "birdman thing", So what if I tossed some bread to them on occasion? You make it sound worse than what it actually was! Oh, but then again, you truly don't know. Because you weren't there when I was. You are basing that statement on mere hearsay again. And in regards to "looking for air bottles", Once our illustrious "Chief" arrived on scene, we were nearly out of usable air bottles. I was DIRECTED by a Senior Fire Official to return to the station to retreive the air compressor trailer. But see, you are just dying & trying to find ways to discredit me when it was YOU who seriously fouled things up that night. Get It? Hmmmmm, maybe THATS why you aren't with them anymore!
Lastly, you and I never worked together on ANYTHING! Except for the all nighter at the DFAC. One day! So you don't really know me, what I know, who I know and what I am capable of or not. I will ALSO admit, when you first arrived there, I had a lot of respect for you. But you bought into the "club".

[KAPNKRNCH]

gruntman, could you pm me? I have a few questions. I,m right near Damascus.

[rcgregor]

OOO I remember that DFAC fire... burned right to the ground. Wonder what the cause of that one was, but definately no food that day at work, cause they picked up our food and brought it to us from ole #3. How bout this, STOP SQUABBLING ABOUT WHO'S FAULT IT WAS AND FIGURE OUT HOW TO DO IT BETTER. AND I HOPE YOU ALL REALIZE WHAT YOU ARE THERE TO DO AND THAT IS TO SERVE OUR TROOPS WHO PROTECT OUR COUNTRY!!!
-USMC VET

[mrffmike]

How bout this, STOP SQUABBLING ABOUT WHO'S FAULT IT WAS AND FIGURE OUT HOW TO DO IT BETTER. AND I HOPE YOU ALL REALIZE WHAT YOU ARE THERE TO DO AND THAT IS TO SERVE OUR TROOPS WHO PROTECT OUR COUNTRY!!!
-USMC VET

here here! Semperfi. Right on the money there, thank you. There is only one perfect person and he is long ago dead so let's learn from each other instead of constantly holding things against each other.

[jl]

Getting hired as a FF for KBR just seems next to impossible.

[armyfiremn]

rc if your talking about the dfac fire at al asad it was caused by a electrical short in a refer unit. then things went to hell form there. (got to love t walls and the lack of room to position the trucks properly) i would have been fighting the damn thing but it happened the last night of my r&r before i returned to al asad. if i can find some of the guys i worked with there are some good pictures of everything that happened. gimmie get off fire officer trues back i worked with the guy and he never caused anyone any problems there at al asad. if it wasn't for him, a couple of my fellow firefighters and the other fire captain up at the airfield we wouldn't have had half the crap there that we needed. so what if he fed the birds did he hurt anyone by doing it? what people do to pass their time in country shouldn't matter to anyone as long as someones safety isn't jeapordized.

[rcgregor]

rc if your talking about the dfac fire at al asad it was caused by a electrical short in a refer unit. then things went to hell form there. (got to love t walls and the lack of room to position the trucks properly) i would have been fighting the damn thing but it happened the last night of my r&r before i returned to al asad. if i can find some of the guys i worked with there are some good pictures of everything that happened. gimmie get off fire officer trues back i worked with the guy and he never caused anyone any problems there at al asad. if it wasn't for him, a couple of my fellow firefighters and the other fire captain up at the airfield we wouldn't have had half the crap there that we needed. so what if he fed the birds did he hurt anyone by doing it? what people do to pass their time in country shouldn't matter to anyone as long as someones safety isn't jeapordized.

Yes, that is the fire I am talking about. I did think that those jersey barriers would have hampered the efforts, now I know they did. Did you ever go eat at the "Big Iron Cafe" over at the HMH-West? That's where I hung out. There was usually some firefighters that came over to eat there.

[armyfiremn]

yeah i ate there as much as possible. if i remember right it was the one across the street from the station. we as firefighters always got treated right there. not like we didn't get treated right at the others. those t walls and the hesco's all over the base are such a pain in the ass when it comes to doing your job right as a driver but force protection has got to come first so what are ya going to do.

[gruntman]

Army

It's all due too force protection issues. Fire Officer True hang in there remember 1-14-2006 and flying into Baghdad. Get in some ice fishing for me.

[armyfiremn]

i know grunt didn't you see what i said towards the end about force protection. lol it's a neccesary evil besides there's so much money being spent on the war that's it's cheaper to get a new tent or trailer instead of fixing something if anything burns.

[FireOfficerTrue]

Army

It's all due too force protection issues. Fire Officer True hang in there remember 1-14-2006 and flying into Baghdad. Get in some ice fishing for me.

Hey gruntman and Armyfire,

Oh, don't worry, I'm "hanging in there" just fine!! It'd be kinda hard for me to do any ice fishing at this juncture, I won't be back home until the end of the year. By then, the ice should be pretty thick on the lakes.

I am currently working as a Fire Inspector and Fire Investigator at the base I am assigned, and I love it!! Coming up on 6 months here, and I like it as much (or more) than when I first got here (funny, with WSI, I was thoroughly disgusted 3 months into it!) I plan on staying longer than my one year. My Chief here keeps telling me: "Yeah, you'll be here for 2 years or more!" NOT!! I'm working on my Inspector III and am also getting in some more Fire Investigation courses through IAAI. Aside from the living conditions, which I can tolerate, its just fine. I can say I'm glad it is finally warming up! There is a difference in the way things are run, and in the level of respect given and received. I worked with a lot of great people in Iraq, people who cared about the mission, their fellow firefighters and the soldiers. Then there were those who only cared about themselves. I was never afraid to stand up for what was right. Some who know me also know I wasn't afraid to stand up to a Chief who was not well liked by any of the firefighters (about Feb '06 if you can remember!) And a lot of the guys appreciated what I did, going to bat for them. I have never been afraid to stand up for what is right, and I never will be! Some who read this will want to slam me, so go ahead! I really don't care!
As far as the HMH DFAC at Al Asad, yes, that place was great to go to! It was like a little cabin. They were always friendly there. And if I remember right, the hours were better too. And at least there, we could get food to go if we needed to.

[armyfiremn]

fire great to hear your alive and kicking i mean doing well. the way things are going here in vegas i'm thinking of signing up for another year. i'll probably wait until i finish my semester here first though. it's true what you said about standing up for what you believed was right. most of the people we had the pleasure of knowing were only looking out for themselves. i remember that if it wasn't for you, capt jenkins and joe morris we wouldn't have had all the things we did. that being said i hope al asad is much better now then when we were there.

[surfingpirates]

FireOfficerTrue,

If you get the chance check out www.cfitrainer.net
It's good training and it's through IAAI. I’m at a specialty site so the stuff comes in handy with just one other FF out here.

[EatMyChode29]

Getting hired as a FF for KBR just seems next to impossible.

jl,

It does seem pretty hard. The reason being KBR only has two department here in Iraq. And If I remember Correctly I think two In Kuwait. Rumor has it there not a bad company to work for. I've talked to a few guys that worked for them and they pretty much stated that when people get on with them they stay there. The pay is pretty closed to what the other contract companies are paying for Middle East Jobs.
The highest paying company would be WSLLC.
Rumor with them they are going through a ruff time in the states as far a losing all the Nuke contract for security and there law suit, etc.
I will say being in the contract world all the companies are about the same. There check don't bounce, your money is your. Employee's are always pissed about something.

[rcgregor]

Sounds like we were all there the same time, hell I probably served you the food a few times. And then when we burned papers at night we got a few talking to's.

[armyfiremn]

it was probably because you were either a burning after dark. b didn't have a burn permit or c all the above. lol you probably did serve alot of us i know i was over there quiet a few times especially since we had to pull stand bys down by the terminal. glad the happy horse poo is over for me their was no sense in doing it if you ask me.