Become an Elite Wildland Firefighter (Smokejumper)
Are you looking to take your wildland firefighting career to the absolute edge? The U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS) is currently accepting applications for the highly respected and physically demanding role of Smokejumper. This position is perfect for experienced firefighters ready to deploy from aircraft into the most remote and challenging environments to protect our nation’s public lands.
Job Responsibilities
As a Smokejumper, you are a member of an elite initial attack force. Your core duties include:
- Executing parachute jumps into rugged, often inaccessible terrain.
- Performing fire suppression and wildland fire management activities.
- Maintaining, packing, and repairing parachutes and specialized firefighting gear.
- Serving as an Initial Attack Commander, directing resources, aircraft, and tactical fire line activities.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Feature | GW-05 Level | GW-06 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Requirements | Specialized exp. or degree | Prior smokejumping exp. required |
| Education Option | Yes | No |
| Core Focus | Fire suppression support | Advanced aerial suppression |
Requirements
- Age: Under 37 (with exceptions for veterans and prior service).
- Physical: Must pass the Arduous Work Capacity Test and the specific Smokejumper performance test.
- Licensing: Valid state driver’s license.
- Testing: Subject to pre-employment and random drug testing.
Salary Overview
Positions are compensated based on the GW pay plan, ranging from approximately $52,957 to $74,970 annually. Note that roles in Fairbanks, AK, benefit from additional cost-of-living adjustments, which are subject to annual review.
Benefits
- Access to specialized federal retirement (enhanced annuity for firefighters).
- Paid training and development.
- Opportunities for recruitment and relocation incentives based on agency need.
Application Tips
- Be Precise: Your resume must explicitly state hours worked per week and exact dates (mm/yy).
- Include Proof of Age: As a primary fire position, you must provide government-issued proof of birth.
- Submit Early: Don't wait until the September 25, 2026, deadline. Use the online portal to track your progress.
This is more than just a job; it is a calling. If you meet the high physical and professional standards required to serve as a Smokejumper, we encourage you to apply. Join the USWFS and contribute to the safety and health of our nation’s wildlands.
Why This Wildland Firefighter (Smokejumper) (Detail/Temporary Promotion) Job Matters
Ready to take your wildland firefighting career to the skies? Join the elite team of Smokejumpers with the U.S. Wildland Fire Service.
Wildland Firefighter (Smokejumper) (Detail/Temporary Promotion) Job Overview
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service (USWFS) is seeking experienced and physically elite individuals for temporary promotion or detail assignments as Wildland Firefighters (Smokejumpers). This specialized role involves parachuting into remote, rugged terrain to suppress wildfires and maintain high-level operational readiness. Positions are available in Fairbanks, Alaska, and Boise, Idaho, offering a unique opportunity to work with one of the most advanced fire management organizations in the country.
Requirements for Wildland Firefighter (Smokejumper) (Detail/Temporary Promotion)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must be between 18 and 36 years old (maximum entry age of 37) unless a preference-eligible veteran or qualified by prior federal service.
- Must pass a rigorous pre-employment medical examination and drug test.
- Must maintain a valid state driver's license.
- Must successfully complete the smokejumper physical fitness performance test (30 push-ups, 6 pull-ups, and a 1.5-mile run in 10:47 or less, or 3-mile pack test).
- Must pass the Arduous Work Capacity Test (45-lb pack test).
- Must provide official Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) documentation.
- Must submit to a 1-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Wildland Firefighter (Smokejumper) (Detail/Temporary Promotion)
- Prior smokejumping experience (required for GW-06 level).
- Strong technical competence in fire behavior, fire ecology, and suppression tactics.
- Demonstrated leadership ability in directing crews, aircraft, and fire resources.
- Previous experience in helitack, hand crew, or engine operations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Special enhanced annuity retirement provisions for federal firefighters.
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay.
- ✓Alaska cost-of-living allowance (for Fairbanks, AK).
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
- ✓Career growth within the Department of the Interior.
- ✓Training and professional development opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Wildland Firefighter (Smokejumper) (Detail/Temporary Promotion) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Wildland Firefighter (Smokejumper) (Detail/Temporary Promotion) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review your eligibility for the specific grade level (GW-05 or GW-06).
- Prepare a resume that details specific dates, hours worked, and job duties.
- Gather required documentation, including transcripts, SF-50s, DD-214 (if applicable), and IQCS records.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 25, 2026.
- Check your application status via your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights your fire-specific experience and leadership roles.
- Double-check that you have included your date of birth, as this is a primary firefighter position with age limits.
- Upload unofficial transcripts early to ensure readability.
- If you are a veteran, include your DD-214 and SF-15 to ensure the maximum entry age requirement is waived if applicable.
- Read the full announcement carefully; incomplete applications will not be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age requirement for this position?
Applicants must be at least 18 and must not have reached their 37th birthday by the closing date, unless they are a preference-eligible veteran or have prior qualifying federal service.
Can I qualify for the GW-06 level with education alone?
No, the GW-06 level requires specialized smokejumping experience. Education is only applicable for the GW-05 level.
Are the physical tests performed on site?
Yes, you will be required to successfully pass the smokejumper physical fitness performance test and the Arduous Work Capacity Test as a condition of employment.
What if I have prior smokejumping experience?
*A: Be sure to document specific dates of this experience in your resume to qualify for the higher GW-06 grade level.*
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: Incentives are determined on a case-by-case basis and are not guaranteed.*
Job from Office Of The Secretary Of The Interior
The U.S. Wildland Fire Service, an agency within the Department of the Interior (DOI), is a national leader in wildfire management. We oversee fire-resilient landscapes across 500 million acres of public and tribal lands. Our mission is built on coordination, safety, and rapid response, working alongside the U.S. Forest Service and numerous state and local stakeholders.