Temporary Seasonal Fire Hire

Fire and Aviation - Seasonal Wildland Fire Employment

Forest Service Fire and Aviation Management is a broad field, encompassing firefighters, fire ecologists, fuels specialists, fire managers, administrative personnel, helicopter and fixed wing pilots, aviation and ground safety professionals, radio communications and electronic technicians, dispatchers, and fire prevention specialists

Seasonal jobs in firefighting include working as part of a local unit hand crew, helitack or helirappeling crew, a hotshot crew, an engine crew, a smokejumper, or in roles in fire prevention, dispatch, fire lookouts or materials/supply handlers.

Remember, these are tough jobs usually performed in primitive, backcountry conditions. In addition to specific requirements for each kind of job, it is essential that firefighters be in top physical condition for this demanding work. Employees and prospective employees must pass the Work Capacity Test annually before working on the fire line. 

The Forest Service provides Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) clothing, hardhat and a fire shelter, but you must provide your own lug soled, leather eight-inch topped boots (reimbursable through the Safety Boot Reimbursement Program). The Forest Service also provides training in many specialty fields.

Generally, the Forest Service workforce reaches its highest numbers during the peak fire season each summer. There are many kinds of schedules available to work.

Individuals who want to be seasonal firefighters need to think about wildland fire hiring as early as August or September as many of the announcements close in September or October. Announcements are typically open for eight days only so knowing application dates is crucial.

The people involved in Fire and Aviation Management well represent the pride exemplified by all Forest Service employees in "caring for the land and serving people." We look for dedicated men and women from all walks of life, of all abilities, to join our workforce.

Learn More About Region 4 Fire Hire

Forest Outreach Notices - Job Information