I’ve done reference checking for US Forest Service Region 4 FireHire as well as helped my captain with hiring for our crew the last two years. Believe me when I tell you I’ve looked at heaps of resumes and called tons of prospective new hires. I know what hiring looks like from both sides of the process.

let me guide you through the application process and what you’re getting yourself into.

Becoming a wildland firefighter has shown me that my mind and body are capable of so much more than I ever thought possible. It has given me camaraderie, skills, and purpose. I work a lot of hours during fire season and earn good (enough) money, which allow me to ski and travel in the off-season.

This website came out of my personal experiences from twelve seasons as a federal wildland firefighter on hand crews, engines, and details on hotshot and helitack crews, as well as six years as a volunteer structure firefighter on a department that responds to local wildland fires.

The application process can be daunting. I’ll give you all the details on how to become a wildland firefighter and have a job you love.

You’ll get info on:

Minimum Requirements

At the very least this is what you need before you can even think about applying.

What to Expect

Wildland firefighting is inherently dangerous work. However, the rewards outweigh the risk in my experience. Here’s answers to the most commonly asked questions I get so you can get an idea of the day-to-day life as a wildland firefighter.

Applying

Here’s what to do before you apply, a walk through the application process, how to follow up during the hiring timeline, and my best tips for navigating the confusing USAJobs.gov website.

Gear Lists, Boot recommendations, wildfire 101, advice for the ladies, blog, and lots more