Embark on a Career as a Wildland Firefighter with the Forest Service
Are you looking for a career that takes you outdoors and places you on the front lines of environmental protection? The United States Forest Service is currently recruiting for the 2027 Wildland Firefighter season. This is a demanding, high-impact role perfect for those who are physically fit, technically skilled, and passionate about protecting our nation's natural resources.
Job Responsibilities
As a Wildland Firefighter, you are a critical part of the fire management organization. Your daily duties will include:
- Fire Suppression: Actively engaging in fire control under challenging conditions of terrain and climate.
- Equipment Operation: Handling specialized tools, portable pumps, drip torches, and potentially chainsaws.
- Data Management: Collecting fire weather data, fuel moisture samples, and documenting project sites.
- Operational Support: Assisting in prescribed burns, mop-up operations, and hazard fuel reduction projects.
Comparison of Requirements
| Requirement Type | Essential Qualification |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizen or National |
| Fitness | Pass Arduous Pack Test |
| Certification | FFT1 & S-290 Required |
| Age | 18+ years old |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must demonstrate specific experience and training. You must hold the NWCG Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) and Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (S-290) certifications. Additionally, you will undergo a rigorous drug test and a medical screening to ensure you can perform the arduous duties required on the fire line.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly rate of $25.37 (Rest of U.S. locality). Beyond the pay, you gain unparalleled training in fire ecology, emergency response, and team leadership, which serves as an excellent foundation for a long-term career in federal land management.
Application Tips
- Keep it short: Your resume must not exceed two pages.
- Check documents: Always use the IQCS Master Record instead of your Red Card.
- Stay updated: Enable email notifications in your USAJOBS profile to receive alerts about your application status.
Being a Wildland Firefighter is more than a job; it is a commitment to the health of our forests and the safety of our communities. If you meet the qualifications and are ready for the challenge, submit your application today for the 2027 season.
Why This Wildland Firefighter Job Matters
Answer the call of the wild and join the frontline defense for our nation's forests. Become a Wildland Firefighter and gain hands-on experience in one of the most vital roles in land management.
Wildland Firefighter Job Overview
The USDA Forest Service is seeking dedicated individuals to join our fire management teams as Wildland Firefighters. This temporary role is essential for the protection, suppression, and management of wildland fires. You will work in dynamic, often challenging environments, operating specialized equipment and contributing to the preservation of our national forests. Whether you are conducting prescribed burns, performing hazard fuel reduction, or responding to active fire incidents, your efforts directly impact the safety and health of our country's public lands.
Requirements for Wildland Firefighter
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Valid state driver's license required.
- Must pass the Work Capacity Test (Arduous level): 3-mile hike with a 45-pound pack in 45 minutes.
- Successfully completed NWCG Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) certification.
- Successfully completed NWCG Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (S-290).
- Must pass pre-employment drug screening and be subject to random drug testing.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Meet Federal Wildland Firefighter Medical Standards.
Preferred Qualifications for Wildland Firefighter
- Prior experience serving on specialty fire crews such as hotshot or helitack teams.
- Technical proficiency in operating chainsaws and performing emergency equipment repairs.
- Proven experience with prescribed fire operations including ignition and mop-up techniques.
- Ability to work effectively in remote, high-stress environments.
- Strong skills in fire weather data collection and mapping.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Direct deposit for all federal compensation.
- ✓Opportunities for professional field experience in forestry and land management.
- ✓Training in specialized fire suppression tactics.
- ✓Exposure to diverse geographic and ecological environments.
💡 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 is strictly two pages or less.
- Gather supporting documents: transcripts, IQCS Master Record, and proof of certifications.
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Click the Apply button to complete the Assessment Questionnaire.
- Upload all documents in accepted formats (PDF, DOCX, TXT, etc.).
- Submit your application before 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Verify that your resume clearly lists dates of employment, hours worked, and specific accomplishments to prove eligibility.
- Ensure all uploaded documents are legible and not encrypted.
- Double-check your certification records; 'Red Cards' are not acceptable; you must provide the IQCS Master Record.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute system issues.
- Check your USAJOBS dashboard frequently for status updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the physical requirement for this job?
You must pass the Work Capacity Test at the Arduous level, which involves completing a 3-mile hike while carrying a 45-pound pack within 45 minutes.
Can I apply if my resume is three pages long?
No, the resume limit for this position is strictly two pages. Applications with longer resumes will be removed from consideration.
Is this a permanent position?
No, this is a temporary appointment (up to 6 months or NTE 1 year) for the 2027 hiring season.
What if I have never worked in fire suppression before?
This specific announcement requires documented certification (FFT1 and S-290). Candidates must meet these standards to be eligible.
Where will I be stationed?
This is a multiple-location announcement. During the application process, you may indicate your preferred duty stations across the country.
Job from Forest Service
The USDA Forest Service is tasked with managing 193 million acres of National Forest lands. From conducting critical research to managing forest health, the agency plays an essential role in American conservation. Working here means joining a team dedicated to stewardship, public safety, and scientific excellence.