Embark on a Career as a Wildland Firefighter with the U.S. Forest Service
Are you looking for a career that combines grit, teamwork, and a commitment to protecting our nation's natural beauty? The U.S. Forest Service is currently recruiting for the role of Wildland Firefighter. This position is not just a job; it is a vital public service that requires strength, endurance, and a dedication to safety.
Job Responsibilities
As a Wildland Firefighter, your primary responsibility is fire suppression and management. You will work on various crews, including:
- Hand Crews: Building fire lines by moving dirt, chopping brush, and felling trees.
- Engine Crews: Maintaining water systems and supporting suppression efforts with specialized equipment.
- Helitack Crews: Providing rapid response via helicopter, including transporting personnel and equipment to remote areas.
In addition to fire suppression, you may assist with fuel reduction, trail maintenance, and general infrastructure care.
Comparison of Fire Crew Roles
| Crew Type | Primary Focus | Key Equipment Used |
|---|---|---|
| Hand Crew | Direct line construction | Axes, Pulaskis, Saws |
| Engine Crew | Water handling | Pumps, Hoses, Nozzles |
| Helitack | Remote rapid response | Aviation gear, Long-lines |
Requirements
This is an arduous-duty position. To be considered, you must demonstrate your ability to meet the following standards:
- Physical Fitness: You must be prepared to pass the Work Capacity Test (Arduous) upon hire.
- Certifications: You must have completed Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) and Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (S-290).
- Documentation: You must provide an IQCS Master Record or equivalent training documentation.
- Compliance: You must pass a pre-employment drug test and participate in a random drug testing program.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive hourly rate of $25.37. As a federal position, it provides the opportunity to work within a structured and professional environment that values safety and training.
Application Tips
- Watch the Length: Your resume must not exceed two pages. Overly long resumes will cause your application to be removed from consideration.
- Proof is Key: Ensure your training records (IQCS) are legible and attached to your application package.
- Follow the Guidance: Read the entire USAJobs announcement to understand every specific requirement, including the 30-day notice for drug testing and medical standards.
Being a Wildland Firefighter is a challenging, rewarding path for those who thrive in high-stakes environments. If you meet the criteria and are ready to contribute to the preservation of our forests, apply today to start your journey with the U.S. Forest Service.
Why This Wildland Firefighter Job Matters
Answer the call of the wild. Join the U.S. Forest Service as a Wildland Firefighter and stand on the front lines protecting our nation's most precious natural resources.
Wildland Firefighter Job Overview
The U.S. Forest Service is seeking dedicated individuals to join our fire management organization. In this vital role, you will work as a core member of specialized teams—including hotshot, helitack, engine, and hand crews—to suppress, manage, and monitor wildland fires. You will operate in diverse environments, from rugged backcountry to the wildland-urban interface, ensuring the safety of communities and the preservation of our forests. This temporary appointment offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in fire science, emergency response, and natural resource management.
Requirements for Wildland Firefighter
- U.S. Citizenship or National status
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- Registration with Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
- Successful completion of Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) NWCG Core Requirement
- Successful completion of Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (S-290) NWCG Core Requirement
- Must pass the Work Capacity Test (Arduous level) as a condition of employment
- Must pass pre-employment drug screening and be subject to random drug testing
- Must meet Federal Wildland Firefighter Medical Standards for arduous duty
Preferred Qualifications for Wildland Firefighter
- Experience in wildland fire suppression techniques such as mop-up, felling trees, and operating fire engines
- Experience with specialized fire suppression gear including portable pumps and drip torches
- Previous service on hotshot, helitack, or hand crews
- Ability to perform aviation support activities or serve as a certified rappeller
- Technical proficiency in equipment maintenance and field operations
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay
- ✓Exposure to federal fire management training and certifications
- ✓Opportunities for professional development in emergency services
- ✓Direct experience with the U.S. Forest Service's mission-critical operations
💡 How to Apply Wildland Firefighter Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildland Firefighter Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully on USAJobs
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit
- Gather necessary documentation, including transcripts and IQCS Master Records
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire via the official hiring portal
- Submit your application and all supporting documents before the deadline of August 14, 2026
- Monitor your status and email notifications via your USAJobs profile
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly follows the two-page limit to avoid disqualification
- Clearly document your specialized experience, including dates, hours per week, and grade level
- Make sure your IQCS Master Record is attached, as standard Red Cards are not sufficient proof
- Start training for the Work Capacity Test immediately—it is a physical requirement of the job
- Verify that your uploaded documents are in an acceptable format (e.g., PDF or DOCX) and under 5MB
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Work Capacity Test (WCT)?
It is an arduous fitness test consisting of a three-mile hike while carrying a 45-pound pack, which must be completed within 45 minutes.
Can I apply if I have prior volunteer experience?
Yes. Qualifying volunteer work, including service with organizations like AmeriCorps or the Peace Corps, is credited as valid experience.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
What is the expected schedule?
This is a temporary appointment intended for the 2027 hiring season, with start dates ranging from January to April 2027.
Can I apply for multiple locations?
Yes, the position offers "Location Negotiable" status, and applicants should indicate their flexibility to be considered for various regions.
Job from Forest Service
The U.S. Forest Service (USFS) manages over 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. From research and development to hands-on forest management, the agency is tasked with maintaining the ecological health and productivity of American lands. Joining the fire management team means playing a key part in mitigating the risks posed by wildfires to our ecosystems and the communities living nearby.