Become a Wildland Firefighter with the USDA Forest Service
Are you looking for a career that combines physical fitness, teamwork, and a profound commitment to protecting the environment? The USDA Forest Service is currently seeking motivated individuals for the 2027 fire season. As a wildland firefighter, you will serve on the front lines, protecting our national forests and communities from fire threats.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be part of a high-functioning crew. Your core duties include:
- Fire Suppression: Constructing fire lines using hand tools like Pulaskis and shovels, felling trees, and operating water pumps.
- Specialized Operations: Participating in helitack and engine operations, managing fire line equipment, and providing ground support.
- Crew Leadership: Assisting with on-the-job training for new members and ensuring safe operations.
- Project Work: Assisting in trail maintenance, fuel reduction, and facility upkeep during low-fire periods.
Requirements
To be eligible, you must meet strict standards:
- Fitness: Ability to pass the Arduous Work Capacity Test.
- Training: Must have FFT1 and S-290 certifications.
- Documentation: Submission of IQCS Master Record is mandatory.
- Legal: US Citizenship, age 18+, and background check clearance.
Salary and Comparison
Pay rates are determined by location (locality pay). Below is a comparison of typical requirements versus specialized roles:
| Feature | Entry-Level Expectations | Specialized Crew Role |
|---|---|---|
| Certification | Required: FFT1 | Required: S-290 + FFT1 |
| Physical Test | Arduous (Pack Test) | Arduous (Pack Test) |
| Primary Focus | Fireline Construction | Specialized (Helitack/Hotshot) |
| Drug Testing | Mandatory Pre-employment | Mandatory Pre-employment |
Benefits
- Gain invaluable field experience in fire management.
- Work in diverse ecosystems across the United States.
- Federal employment protections and potential for career growth.
- Training provided by industry experts.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less.
- Check Your Docs: Ensure all transcripts and certifications are clearly readable.
- Stay Ready: Begin your physical training regimen months in advance.
Serving as a Wildland Firefighter is more than a job; it is a vital service to the nation. If you are prepared for the challenge, apply through the USAJOBS portal by July 14, 2026.
Why This Wildland Firefighter Job Matters
Answer the call of the wild: Launch your career as a Wildland Firefighter with the USDA Forest Service and protect our nation's most precious natural landscapes.
Wildland Firefighter Job Overview
The USDA Forest Service is seeking dedicated individuals to join our fire management crews for the 2027 season. This role offers a unique opportunity to serve as an integral member of a firefighting unit, including engine, hotshot, helitack, or hand crews. You will perform critical wildland fire suppression, fuel management, and resource protection duties across various geographic locations.
Requirements for Wildland Firefighter
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Successfully pass the Arduous level Work Capacity Test (3-mile hike with a 45-lb pack in under 45 minutes).
- Hold Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) certification (NWCG Core Requirement).
- Complete Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (S-290) training.
- Pass a pre-employment and ongoing random drug testing program.
- Clear a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Ability to work in remote locations under volatile and unpredictable conditions.
Preferred Qualifications for Wildland Firefighter
- Experience serving on specialty firefighting crews such as hotshots or helitack.
- Experience in mop-up operations and extinguishing burning materials.
- Proficiency in operating fire suppression equipment like portable pumps and drip torches.
- Certified faller or heavy equipment/saw maintenance experience.
- Possession of a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) where applicable.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay with locality adjustments.
- ✓Exposure to professional wildland fire management operations.
- ✓Opportunities to travel and work in diverse geographic environments.
- ✓Access to intensive firefighting training and certification programs.
- ✓Potential for career advancement within the USDA Forest Service.
💡 How to Apply Wildland Firefighter Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildland Firefighter Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJOBS carefully.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your relevant experience and education.
- Gather your Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) Master Record.
- Visit the official application portal via the Apply link.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required documents, including transcripts and certification records.
- Submit your application before the closing date of July 14, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; exceeding this will result in disqualification.
- Start training for the Work Capacity Test immediately, as it is a mandatory condition of employment.
- Clearly document your specific fire experience, including hours worked per week and dates of employment.
- Verify that your uploaded documents (PDFs preferred) are not encrypted and under 5MB.
- Monitor your USAJOBS account for status updates and notifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Work Capacity Test?
It is an 'Arduous' level fitness test requiring you to complete a 3-mile hike carrying a 45-pound pack in 45 minutes or less.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
Can I work from home?
No, this position is not eligible for telework due to the nature of onsite fire suppression activities.
What if I don't have all the certifications?
Applicants must have the primary NWCG requirements completed by the closing date to be considered.
Is there random drug testing?
Yes, this is a drug-tested position under the USDA Drug-Free Workplace Program.
Job from Forest Service
The Forest Service, under the Department of Agriculture, manages 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation’s forests to meet the needs of present and future generations. Firefighters are the backbone of this mission, managing fires and performing critical resource protection.