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Fire Fighter Trainee Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Nature

Fire in the Forest Burn Crew Member

Cushing, MN · On-site

$18 - $19.05/hr

You may also be offered trainee opportunities to advance your qualifications. In addition, you ... Candidates who are not currently qualified as a Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2) may complete the ...

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Fire Fighter Trainee information

See Minnesota salary details

$13

$20

$35

How much do fire fighter trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire fighter trainee in Minnesota is $20.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it difficult to get hired as a fire fighter trainee?

Getting hired as a fire fighter trainee can be competitive, as it often requires passing physical fitness tests, written exams, background checks, and interviews. Candidates typically need to meet minimum qualifications such as a high school diploma or equivalent and obtain relevant certifications like CPR or EMT training. The selection process varies by department but generally involves demonstrating physical ability and a commitment to public safety.

What is the difference between Fire Fighter Trainee vs Fire Fighter?

AspectFire Fighter TraineeFire Fighter
Required CertificationsBasic EMT, Firefighter IFirefighter I, EMT or Paramedic certification
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, fire stations, supervised callsActive firefighting, emergency response, rescue operations
Job ResponsibilitiesLearning firefighting techniques, assisting in drillsResponding to fires, rescues, hazardous situations

Fire Fighter Trainees are in training, focusing on learning skills and gaining certifications, while Fire Fighters are fully qualified personnel actively responding to emergencies. Trainees work under supervision, whereas Fire Fighters operate independently in the field.

What is a fire fighter trainee?

Fire Fighter Trainees are individuals who are undergoing training to become professional firefighters. They participate in structured programs that teach them essential skills such as fire suppression, emergency medical response, hazardous materials handling, and rescue operations. Trainees learn both in the classroom and through hands-on exercises, preparing them to respond effectively to a variety of emergency situations. Upon successful completion of their training, they may be eligible for certification and full-time firefighter positions within a fire department.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a fire fighter trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Fighter Trainee, you need physical fitness, basic emergency medical training, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with firefighting equipment, personal protective gear, and systems such as incident command protocols is often required, and some departments may seek CPR or EMT certification. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for handling high-pressure situations. These skills and qualifications are essential for ensuring safety, quick response, and collaboration during emergencies.

How do you start a career as a fire fighter trainee?

To start a career as a fire fighter trainee, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, pass physical fitness and medical exams, and obtain a valid driver's license. Many departments require completion of fire academy training and emergency medical technician (EMT) certification before advancing to full firefighter roles.

What are some common challenges fire fighter trainees face during their initial training period?

Fire Fighter Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to the physical demands of the role, learning to operate specialized equipment, and mastering emergency response protocols under pressure. The training is both physically and mentally rigorous, requiring teamwork, quick decision-making, and resilience. Trainees also need to develop strong communication skills to coordinate effectively with team members during simulations and real emergencies. Overcoming these challenges is key to building the confidence and competence needed for a successful firefighting career.
What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Fighter jobs in Minnesota? The most popular types of Fire Fighter jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Fire Fighter Trainee jobs in Minnesota? For Fire Fighter Trainee jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Fire Fighter Trainee jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Fighter Trainee jobs in Minnesota are:
Fire Fighter Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Fighter Trainee job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,085 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Fire in the Forest Burn Crew Member

Nature

Cushing, MN • On-site

$18 - $19.05/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Fire in the Forest Burn Crew Member

Position details:

  • This job posting will be open until filled and will hire two individuals.

  • This is a seasonal, full-time (40 hours/week) position is anticipated to start September 12, 2026 and end on October 31, 2026.

  • This position is based out of Cushing, Minnesota on TNC's Lake Alexander Preserve.

  • Shared housing and basic utilities are provided by TNC at no cost to the employee upon signing and agreeing to housing terms, and the employee must live in the provided housing to meet the needs and nature of the position and to maximize the effectiveness of the crew.

  • Hourly rate range: $18.00 - 19.05/hour dependent on experience.

What We Can Achieve Together:

The Fire in the Forest program focuses most of its efforts in Central Minnesota in mixed conifer and hardwood forests. As one of our Burn Crew Members, you will participate in prescribed burning operations in partnership with other non-profit organizations, state and federal agencies, and Tribes. This includes ignition, holding, mop-up, and post-burn patrol. You will also be responsible for burn unit preparation, equipment maintenance, timber stand improvement projects, invasive species control, and other projects as assigned that are essential to fire operations and ecosystem restoration.

As Burn Crew Members, you will be introduced to regional prescribed burning ecology, equipment, and practices. You may also be offered trainee opportunities to advance your qualifications. In addition, you shall work to build and maintain relationships in the professional wildland fire community and in local communities where TNC works.

Candidates who are not currently qualified as a Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2) may complete the required online training before your first day of work and complete the hands-on component of the training as part of your onboarding work time.

Some overtime is expected, and as part of the crew, you may be asked to travel as far as the Minnesota-Canada border and to the bluff lands of southeast Minnesota. This may include overnight stays for multiple days for burn opportunities. You will work outdoors in variable weather conditions, in remote locations, at times on difficult and uneven terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.

We're Looking for You:

Ready to be a part of TNC's fire operations? Join us as a Fire in the Forest Burn Crew Member (BCM) and be at the heart of the action! From ignition to mop-up, you'll tackle tasks like preparing firebreaks and monitoring post-burn activities. But that's not all - your journey with us means continuous growth. Our program has a strong commitment to training its staff, so you can look forward to gaining many new experiences and skills both on and off the fire line. Plus, you'll build strong relationships within the fire community and local areas where we operate. Come join TNC and apply today!

What You'll Bring:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • Must be able to obtain the qualifications for Prescribed Fire Crew Member (RXCM) or Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including Introduction to ICS (I-100), Human Factors on the Fire line (L-180), Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190), Firefighting Training (S-130), and one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2 as a requirement for this position. See TNC Fire Management Manual.

  • Must achieve physical fitness standards as determined by the local Prescribed Fire Manager and the TNC Fire Management Manual.

  • Experience operating various types of equipment.

  • Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required (e.g., First Aid, CPR).

This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC's Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit the Auto Safety information page. Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

Salary Information:
The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $18.00 - $19.05 hourly rate. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate's actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.Who We Are:

The Nature Conservancy's mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world's toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We're rooted in our mission and guided by our values, which include respect for all people, communities, and cultures. Whether it's career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there's many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.

One goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. In addition to the requirements in our job postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicant's unique experience. Please apply - we'd love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, "you'll join for the mission, and stay for the people."

What We Bring:


Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world!
TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our Benefits and Perks here.
We're proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.

Our recruiting process includes a rolling interview process to ensure we engage applicants in a timely manner. This means we may review applications in the order in which they are received. Once a strong candidate pool is identified, the role will be unposted. The timeline may vary depending on the expressed interest in the role, so we highly encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.
The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy's background screening process.
Do you have military experience? Visit our U.S. Military Skills Translator to match your military experience with our current job openings!
TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to applyhelp@tnc.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.

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