Wildland Firefighter Apprenticeship Program

The Wildland Firefighter Apprenticeship Program is designed to enhance and develop future leaders in wildland firefighting. As an apprentice, you’ll receive pay as you complete a 3,000 hour on-the-job training program at a residential wildland fire academy. The Forest Service covers all training costs. When you complete the program, you’ll have journey-level status as a wildland firefighter.

Duties

Wildland firefighter apprentices are involved with wildland fire suppression, management, and control. You may be away from home for weeks at a time, often work long hours outdoors and may fly in helicopters, hike into mountainous areas or patrol on roads to access wildfires. You may also speak to the public about fire prevention. Other duties may include working in a dispatch or fire prevention capacity.

Explore Wildland Fire Careers 

Visit the career in wildland fire to learn more about careers in wildland fire.

Eligibility Requirements

• Be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
• If you are a male born after 12/31/59, you must be Selective Service registered or exempt.
• Meet Interagency Fire Program Management qualifications.
• Take the required Work Capacity Test.
• Possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
• Pass a drug test with negative results.
• Meet Maximum Entry Age requirements, ages 18-37. If you are a veteran or eligible for the Land Management Workforce Flexibility Act, you may apply if you are older than 37. Call 1-877-372-7248, Option 2 for more information

Nationwide Opportunities

Visit your local Forest Service website for more information including location information and application dates.

• Northern Region (R1)
• Rocky Mountain Region (R2)
• Southwestern Region (R3)
• Intermountain Region (R4)
• Pacific Southwest Region (R5)
• Pacific Northwest Region (R6)
• Southern Region (R8)
• Eastern Region (R9)
• Alaska Region (R10)

Helpful Information

• Program Summary, Historical Reference, and Program Leadership (updated September 2023) 
• Frequently Asked Questions about becoming a Forest Service wildland firefighter.
• Visit the National Advanced Fire and Resource Institute webpage for more information.
• Apply for a Forest Service Job – has helpful information to guide you through the application process.

Help Is Available

The How to Apply webpage has helpful information to help with the application process. Contact us with questions about your application by calling 1-877-372-7248, select Option 2, and follow the prompts. We're open from 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Mountain time Monday through Friday, and closed on all federal holidays.

For information about the Wildland Firefighter Apprenticeship Program, please send an email with your name and contact information to SM.FS.wfap@usda.gov

The USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.