Each country has its own unique set of qualifications. Be sure to check the specifications in your jurisdiction, if you live outside of the United States. For example, in Canada, you must be 18 years or older, speak English, and complete three training courses. [3] X Research source
Break in your boots. You will be supplied with most items needed (hard hat, leather gloves, fire resistant clothing, backpack, tent, etc. ), but you need to purchase your own boots. The US Fish & Wildlife Service recommends you break these in before turning up for duty to avoid blisters, sores, infection, and other concerns. Practice hiking with a pack. Increase the distance hiked and weight carried gradually, until you can hike with 45 pounds for several miles. [4] X Research source For perspective: to qualify as a smokejumper, you would need to complete a hike of three miles in under 90 minutes, carrying a 110-pound pack, over level ground, among other things. Complete a fire training course from a local community college, university, or vocational institute. This will give you the basic information you need to get started on the job. [5] X Research source
Earning an associate’s, bachelor’s, or graduate degree in fire science or other related subjects will set you apart from other applicants, but this is not typically required for entry level wildland firefighting positions. Check the courses offered in fire science at your local community college or university to see if there is at least one course in wildland firefighting. Contact the school to find out if hands-on training is part of the fire science curriculum. [6] X Research source
To improve your stamina on your down time, try “rucking,” or going for a walk with a backpack on. Start with a lightweight backpack, then add weight to it as you build strength and stamina. To condition you to hike through wild terrain, set a treadmill to “incline” mode while you walk on it. To increase your strength so you can endure long treks and physical exertion, do push ups, pull ups or inverted rows, squats, lunges, step ups, deadlifts, and glute bridges.
While wildland firefighter safety continues to improve, the job is still very hazardous. In 2013, an entire crew of 19 was lost when their emergency shelters were unsuccessful in protecting them, after they became trapped in unexpected and rapidly deteriorating conditions. [9] X Research source In recent years, annual deaths have decreased dramatically. Apart from 2013, less than 20 fatalities have occurred annually since 2010. [10] X Research source
The WCT is administered as part of the application process for many agencies. If you don’t meet the requirements for the test initially, you have two weeks in which to take it again. If unsuccessful the second time, you will likely not be accepted for the position. The WCT is often referred to as the pack test because it requires applicants to hike several miles with a 45-pound pack. The WCT is administered when you return to duty each season to ensure you’ve maintained physical aptitude. [11] X Research source
Contact the agencies you’re applying with and local fire science programs to find out if there are group training programs for the WCT in your area. Get a personal trainer through a local gym. They are great resources to help you safely and successfully reach your training goals, especially if they are familiar with training firefighters. Give yourself rest time throughout training. Do not run or hike every day. Instead, start with two or three days of activity each week, and gradually increase to five. Set yourself apart from other applicants by completing practice WCTs before applying. [12] X Research source
If you’re interested in applying with US state agencies, there are currently 11 regional organizations that hire wildland firefighters. A full list of these Geographical Area Coordination Centers, with links to their websites can be found at the page. One place to find federal jobs is through the US Fish & Wildlife Service at http://jobs. fws. gov. Click the “current job listings” tab, and search for “fire. ” The US Department of the Interior has a full page devoted to application information specifically for wildland firefighters. This information is processed through the Fire Integrated Recruitment Employment Systems or FIRES. The FIRES recruitment system, application information, and links to current openings can be found in the US at http://www. firejobs. doi. gov You can check with US National Park Service’s Fire and Aviation department at http://www. nps. gov/fire. Click on the “Jobs” link. From there, you can search for jobs under “Job Search. ” This has customized searches for National Park Service fire-related jobs. For US Forest Service applicants, you can also search for wildland firefighter job openings, internships, apprenticeships, and more through the United States Department of Agriculture at http://www. fs. usda. gov/detail/r5/fire-aviation/management/?cid=stelprdb5341420.
Set aside adequate time to complete the application. The application usually takes about an hour, though it varies between agencies. If there’s not a checklist available from the agency you apply with, make your own application checklist to keep track of all necessary steps. Before applying for a job, make sure you meet all of the minimum education and experience qualifications. [14] X Research source
The written test typically covers things like protective equipment, response procedures, and mechanical reasoning. These topics will all be covered in any basic introduction course to fire science or may be learned from independent study of textbooks or relevant on-the-job training. If you aren’t able to complete a course in fire science prior to taking the test, there are a number of online resources you can consult free of charge. Search online for “wildland firefighter written exam prep. ” There are often study materials available through the agency you apply with. Passing the Work Capacity Test (WCT) or “pack test” is essential. This test consists of a three-mile walk carrying a 45-pound pack. You must be able to complete the WCT in 45 minutes or less without jogging or running. Rules may vary as to whether you must wear hiking boots or athletic shoes. Every wildland firefighter completes the WCT before returning to work each season. [16] X Research source
Check the website for the federal, state, or local agency you’re applying to. Most sites will have a checklist or outline of the requirements for wildland firefighters. If you’re unsure, contact the organization prior to applying to verify you meet all their prerequisites. [17] X Research source As an example, in Colorado, one of the most popular areas for wildland firefighting, firefighters must earn the Interagency Incident Qualification Card sometimes referred to simply as the “Red Card”, within a limited time of starting. This is completed through the National Wildfire Coordinating Group. [18] X Research source If you’re interested in a specialty subfield, or applying for advanced crews, you will need to complete additional training. For example, aviation firefighters complete training through the US Bureau of Land Management or US Forest Service to learn how to safely parachute or rappel into fire areas. If you hope to advance within the field, you may need to earn a bachelor’s or graduate degree in fire science, rangeland ecology, or other topics. [19] X Research source Many excellent firefighters and supervisors have little more education than a high-school diploma and some hours of community college, but offset those credentials with massive job qualifications and reputation based upon experience.
