Embark on a Career as a Wildland Firefighter with the Forest Service

Are you looking for a career that combines physical challenge, environmental stewardship, and a commitment to protecting our nation's public lands? The USDA Forest Service is currently hiring Wildland Firefighters for the 2027 season. This role is not just a job; it is a vital service that safeguards forests, ecosystems, and communities across the United States.

Job Responsibilities

As a Wildland Firefighter, you will serve as a skilled crewmember on hand crews assigned to suppress fires of varying complexity. Your primary duties include:

Fire Suppression: Actively engaging in wildfire control using techniques like line construction, patrolled monitoring, and mop-up operations.
Tool Operation: Proficiency in using professional tools such as chainsaws, shovels, Pulaskis, and McLeod tools to clear brush and create fire lines.
Project Work: Assisting in prescribed burns, hazard fuel reduction, and fuel inventories during the off-peak fire season.
Emergency Defense: Depending on the mission, you may be called upon to support structure fire defense or specialized suppression tasks.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet several specific federal requirements:

Requirement	Description
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National
Age	Must be 18 years or older
Fitness	Must pass the Arduous-level Work Capacity Test
Legal	Must pass E-Verify and background checks
Drug Test	Mandatory pre-employment and random testing

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive hourly wage of $23.20. While the base rate is standard, employees enjoy the benefits of federal employment, which include:

Comprehensive training for high-level wildland operations.
Participation in the federal direct deposit program.
The opportunity to serve at diverse duty locations across the country.

Application Tips

Respect the Page Limit: Your resume must be two pages or fewer. Applications exceeding this length are automatically removed.
Physical Preparation: Do not wait until you are hired to start training. Begin your conditioning for the three-mile, 45-pound pack test immediately.
Document Accuracy: Ensure your transcripts are clearly labeled and that all work experience highlights your specific responsibilities and hours worked.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How often is the drug test administered? A: You will be tested prior to your appointment, and you remain subject to random testing throughout your tenure.

Q: What is the expected start date? A: Positions are expected to begin between January 10, 2027, and April 4, 2027.

If you have the stamina, the drive, and the dedication to protect our nation's natural resources, this is the career for you. Join the USDA Forest Service and become part of a tradition of bravery and environmental protection. Apply today through the official USAJobs platform.

Why This Wildland Firefighter Job Matters

Take your passion for the outdoors and turn it into a vital career protecting our nation's forests. Join the Forest Service as a Wildland Firefighter and stand at the front lines of fire management and environmental stewardship.

Wildland Firefighter Job Overview

The USDA Forest Service is seeking dedicated individuals to join our fire management crews. This is an essential role in wildland fire suppression, control, and prevention. As a member of a specialized crew, you will perform high-stakes work involving fireline construction, hazard fuel reduction, and the operation of professional firefighting equipment. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in diverse landscapes and gain invaluable experience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Requirements for Wildland Firefighter

Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for the Selective Service.
Must pass the Arduous-level Work Capacity Test (3-mile hike with a 45lb pack in 45 minutes).
Subject to pre-employment and random drug testing as a Testing Designated Position (TDP).
Must undergo a medical examination and meet Federal Wildland Firefighter Medical Standards.
Must provide a resume that does not exceed two pages.
Must successfully complete an E-Verify employment check.

Preferred Qualifications for Wildland Firefighter

Prior experience in natural resource support (forestry, range, or park technician).
Direct experience in wildland firefighting or prescribed burn operations.
Successful completion of a two-year degree in Fire Science, Fire Technology, or related fields.
Experience in farm, ranch, or land management operations.
Volunteer experience in fire prevention or community emergency services.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Direct Deposit of pay.
✓Training in specialized wildfire suppression techniques.
✓Opportunities for professional development in land management.
✓Contribution to national conservation and protection efforts.
✓Competitive hourly federal pay rates.

💡 How to Apply Wildland Firefighter Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Wildland Firefighter Job

Create or update your profile on the official federal jobs portal.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
Ensure all educational transcripts are ready for upload.
Click the apply link and complete the required assessment questionnaire.
Upload all supporting documentation, ensuring files are under 5MB.
Submit your application by the 11:59 p.m. ET deadline on August 14, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise and strictly adhere to the two-page limit; submissions exceeding this will be disqualified.
Start training for the Work Capacity Test (WCT) immediately if you are not already at the arduous level of fitness.
Verify that your documents upload correctly and are not in an encrypted or Adobe Portfolio format.
Ensure your resume explicitly details dates of employment, hours worked per week, and specific fire-related duties.
Double-check that your transcripts are in English or include a certified English translation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Work Capacity Test?

It is a physical fitness test for wildland firefighters. The 'Arduous' level requires you to hike three miles while carrying a 45-pound pack within 45 minutes.

Can I work remotely?

No, this position is not eligible for telework as it requires on-site fire suppression and land management duties.

Is drug testing required?

Yes, this is a Testing Designated Position. You will undergo pre-employment drug screening and are subject to random testing after hiring.

Job from Forest Service

The Forest Service manages over 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. Firefighters are the backbone of this mission, working tirelessly to manage fire, reduce fuel hazards, and restore forest health.