Launch Your Career: Become a Wildland Firefighter with the U.S. Forest Service
Are you looking for a career that moves you out of the office and into the heart of America’s wilderness? The U.S. Forest Service is currently hiring seasonal Wildland Firefighters for the 2027 season across multiple duty stations in Montana. This is an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on experience in fire management, resource protection, and emergency response.
Job Responsibilities
As a Wildland Firefighter, your primary duties involve the suppression and control of wildland fires. You will:
- Fireline Construction: Use hand tools like Pulaskis and shovels, as well as power saws, to build firelines and contain blazes.
- Suppression Efforts: Operate portable pumps and fire engines to apply water and suppress fire spread.
- Mop-up Operations: Patrol controlled fires to extinguish burning materials and prevent re-ignition.
- Project Work: When not on the fire line, you will assist with fuels management, timber projects, and reforestation efforts.
- Specialized Assignments: Depending on your experience, you may assist with helitack operations, structure defense, or prescribed burning.
Requirements
To succeed in this demanding role, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Age and Eligibility: You must be 18+ and a U.S. citizen.
- Physical Readiness: You must pass the Arduous Work Capacity Test.
- Drug Testing: As a Testing Designated Position, all applicants must pass a pre-employment drug test and participate in random testing.
- Documentation: A valid driver's license and a professional resume (max 2 pages) are mandatory.
Salary and Comparison
This position offers a competitive hourly rate for seasonal work. Below is a quick overview of what to expect:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | $23.20 per hour |
| Schedule | Full-time, Temporary Seasonal |
| Locations | Eureka, Great Falls, Helena, etc. |
| Drug Test Required | Yes |
Benefits and Growth
While this is a temporary role, the skills you acquire are highly transferable. You will gain invaluable experience in teamwork, specialized equipment handling, and crisis management, setting a strong foundation for a long-term career in federal land management.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Focus on your relevant physical and technical experience. Do not exceed two pages.
- Check Your Paperwork: Ensure all transcripts and identification are legible and in an accepted format.
- Prepare Early: Do not wait until the final hours before the closing date to submit your application to avoid technical bottlenecks.
If you are ready for a challenge that combines physical endurance with meaningful public service, the U.S. Forest Service encourages you to apply. Join a team dedicated to the stewardship of our nation's most magnificent landscapes.
Why This Wildland Firefighter Job Matters
Launch your career with the Forest Service: Protect our nation's wildlands and gain elite experience as a seasonal Wildland Firefighter in the heart of Montana.
Wildland Firefighter Job Overview
The U.S. Forest Service is seeking dedicated individuals to join our fire management teams for the upcoming seasonal hiring cycle. This position is ideal for those passionate about natural resource protection and ready to take on the physical and mental demands of wildland fire suppression. You will work across diverse terrain, participating in everything from active fireline construction and suppression to fuel management and restoration projects. This is a chance to play a vital role in protecting 193 million acres of federal land while gaining professional experience in a highly respected field.
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 with the Selective Service.
- Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening and participate in ongoing random testing.
- Must pass the Work Capacity Test (Arduous Level): 3-mile hike with a 45-pound pack in 45 minutes.
- Must meet Federal Wildland Firefighter Medical Standards.
- Satisfactory background investigation and fingerprint check.
Preferred Qualifications for Wildland Firefighter
- Completion of a two-year degree in Fire Science, Fire Technology, or related fields.
- Previous experience in forestry, park maintenance, or volunteer fire departments.
- Ability to operate specialized fire equipment such as portable pumps and power saws.
- Experience in helitack, fuels management, or prescribed burn operations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Opportunities for professional development in fire management.
- ✓Exposure to diverse environmental and resource management projects.
- ✓Contribution to national conservation and public safety efforts.
- ✓Access to federal training programs.
💡 How to Apply Wildland Firefighter Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildland Firefighter Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account and complete your profile.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your relevant experience, ensuring it does not exceed two pages.
- Gather your supporting documents, including unofficial transcripts if using education to qualify.
- Click 'Apply' on the announcement page to complete the assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your application and all required documents by 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date.
- Monitor your status in the USAJOBS portal and enable email notifications.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly follows the two-page limit; submissions exceeding this will be automatically disqualified.
- Be detailed in your work history: include specific dates, hours worked per week, and a thorough description of your duties.
- Test your physical readiness before applying; the Arduous Pack Test is a non-negotiable condition of employment.
- If you require a reasonable accommodation for the application process, contact the Agency representative well before the deadline.
- Verify that your uploaded documents are in accepted formats (PDF, JPG, TXT, etc.) and not encrypted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
No, this is a temporary seasonal position with an expected duration of up to 6 months or one year, depending on operational needs.
What is the physical fitness requirement?
You must pass the Arduous Work Capacity Test, which requires a 3-mile hike carrying a 45-pound pack in 45 minutes or less.
Does this position require travel?
Yes, occasional overnight travel is required for fire suppression assignments and related projects.
Job from Forest Service
The U.S. Forest Service, a branch of the Department of Agriculture, oversees 193 million acres of National Forest and Grassland. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of these lands. As a member of our fire crew, you will contribute to this critical mission, ensuring that our nation's natural treasures are protected for future generations.