1

Wildfire Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

FIRE CAPTAIN - ELY

Carson City, NV ยท On-site

$59K - $88K/yr

... firefighters that participate in all functional areas of wildland fire and resource management. This includes wildfire prevention, suppression and rehabilitation, fuels reduction treatments, natural ...

Wildland Firefighter

Blacksburg, VA ยท On-site +1

$23.20/hr

... a specialized firefighter with responsibility for the operation and maintenance of specialized ... spread of wildfire. * Performs basic fireline activities such as line construction, lopping and ...

Wildland Firefighter

Camp Verde, AZ ยท On-site +1

$23.20/hr

... a specialized firefighter with responsibility for the operation and maintenance of specialized ... spread of wildfire. * Performs basic fireline activities such as line construction, lopping and ...

OR ยท On-site

Firefighter II certification preferred. Current NREMT preferred. Experience: Minimum of one (1) ... These situations could include hurricane responses, mass shooting(s), wildfire responses, and more.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Wildfire Firefighter information

See salary details

$28.5K

$59.6K

$100K

How much do wildfire firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for wildfire firefighter in the United States is $59,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by wildfire firefighters during a typical fire season?

Wildfire firefighters often contend with physically demanding work, unpredictable weather, and rapidly changing fire conditions that require quick decision-making. The job can involve extended shifts, working in remote locations, and exposure to smoke and heat, which makes maintaining health and stamina crucial. Teamwork is essential, as firefighters must coordinate closely with crew members and other agencies to ensure safety and effective fire suppression. Additionally, adapting to evolving technology and techniques is important for career growth in this field.

What is the difference between Wildfire Firefighter vs Forest Firefighter?

AspectWildfire FirefighterForest Firefighter
CertificationsFirefighter certification, wildfire suppression trainingFirefighter certification, wildfire suppression training
Work EnvironmentActive wildfire areas, remote terrainsForests, national parks, rural areas
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, firefighting departmentsForestry services, government agencies

Wildfire Firefighters and Forest Firefighters often share similar certifications and work environments, focusing on wildfire suppression in remote or forested areas. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Wildfire Firefighter' emphasizes fighting large, uncontrolled fires in wildland areas, while 'Forest Firefighter' may refer to roles within forest management or fire prevention in forested regions. Both roles are vital in protecting natural resources and communities from fire hazards.

What are wildfire firefighters?

Wildfire firefighters, also known as wildland firefighters, are professionals trained to prevent, control, and suppress wildfires in forests, grasslands, and other natural areas. They work in challenging environments, often using specialized equipment and techniques such as creating firebreaks, conducting controlled burns, and operating water pumps. Their responsibilities also include monitoring fire conditions, ensuring public safety, and sometimes assisting in disaster response. Wildfire firefighters may work for federal, state, or local agencies and often face physically demanding and hazardous situations. Training, physical fitness, and teamwork are essential for this career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Wildfire Firefighter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Wildfire Firefighter, you need strong physical fitness, knowledge of fire behavior, and typically completion of fire academy training and relevant certifications such as Firefighter I/II and Wildland Firefighter certifications. Familiarity with specialized equipment like fire shelters, chainsaws, and GPS systems is essential for safety and effectiveness in the field. Teamwork, resilience, and quick decision-making under pressure are crucial soft skills for managing unpredictable and hazardous situations. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure the safety of both the crew and the public while effectively containing and extinguishing wildfires.
More about Wildfire Firefighter jobs
What cities are hiring for Wildfire Firefighter jobs? Cities with the most Wildfire Firefighter job openings:
What states have the most Wildfire Firefighter jobs? States with the most job openings for Wildfire Firefighter jobs include:
Infographic showing various Wildfire Firefighter job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 32% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,606 per year, or $28.7 per hour.

$60K - $74K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Description
East Fork Fire Protection District is Recruiting for
Lateral Firefighter (EMTB, EMTA, and Paramedic)
BE SURE TO ATTACH THE RELEVANT CERTIFICATION, AND ANY OTHER REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS PRIOR TO SUBMITTING YOUR APPLICATION.
This recruitment is open and continuous, with no closing date. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and eligible candidates will be considered as vacancies arise.
HIRING PROCESS
  • Must complete a Fire District Employment Application.
  • Meet the qualifications of the Job Description for the position for which they are applying.
  • All licenses, certifications, and/or qualifications are required to be kept current and maintained for continued employment.
  • Successfully pass an oral review board.
  • Successfully pass EMS skills test for the applicable position.
  • Successfully pass established fire skills test based on current probationary Firefighter job sheets for the applicable position.
  • Successfully pass a required medical evaluation prior to employment.
  • Successfully pass a comprehensive background examination prior to employment.

PAY PER CERTIFICATION LEVEL
Firefighter/EMTB - $60,577- $74,373
Firefighter/EMTA - $66,120 - $81,178
Firefighter/Paramedic - $76,190 - $93,541
CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Firefighter/EMTB
  • Certified EMT-Basic.
  • ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800.

Firefighter/EMTA
  • Certified EMT-Advanced.
  • ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800.

Firefighter/Paramedic
  • American Heart Association ACLS/PALS certification.
  • Ambulance Attendant license within six (6) months of date of employment.
  • EMT-Paramedic certification.
  • ICS 100, 200, 700, and 800.

Education and Other License Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent.
  • Valid Class A, B, or C driver's license.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL CERTIFICATION LEVELS
  • The applicant must possess a minimum of two (2) years of continuous full-time employment (inclusive of probationary periods) as a Firefighter/EMT-B, Firefighter/EMT-A, or Firefighter/Paramedic, or higher-ranking fire operations personnel. The employment must be with a public fire agency, authority, or department that provides comprehensive Fire/ALS EMS/Patient Transport services comparable to East Fork Fire Protection District, as defined by NFPA standards, including NFPA 1710. Applicants must have served in such position(s) within the past twelve (12) months AND completion of a fire academy equivalent to the Capital City Regional Fire Academy.

OR
  • The applicant must have successfully completed the Capital City Regional Fire Academy.

Important: As a condition of employment, EMT-Basic and EMT-Advanced positions are required to achieve Paramedic certification (or be in the process of) within forty-eight (48) months of the date of employment with the District. Failure to attain Paramedic certification within the required time period will result in termination. (Certification funded by the District)
ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS FOR LATERAL FIREFIGHTER HIRES:
  • Upon hiring, the District will provide direct payment of $5,000 to the lateral hire's former agency to cover any outstanding paramedic program (school) costs.

OR
  • In lieu of direct payment, the District will credit $5,000 worth of sick and/or annual leave to the new lateral hire's leave bank.

POSITION SUMMARY
Responds to and mitigates medical emergencies, structure and wildfire, hazardous materials releases and other incidents to protect life and property; participates in fire prevention, training, and station and equipment maintenance.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Responds to medical emergencies; triages the incident; evaluates the condition of the sick or injured person; and determines the level of care needed.
  • Performs emergency medical services consistent with certification level (EMT, Advanced EMT, or Paramedic) including basic life support and advanced life support procedures as approved by the Medical Director.
  • Administers medications and performs medical procedures within scope of practice; transports sick or injured persons; maintains voice contact with medical practitioner to report status of patient while en route per protocol; completes all required documentation.
  • Responds to fire emergencies; operates engine, pumps, and fire-fighting equipment; performs ground fire operations; establishes an incident command system and evaluates the situation; documents events for written incident report; participates in the practice of cross staffing apparatus as necessary.
  • Maintains equipment, apparatus, and fire station facilities; ensures all equipment is in a constant state of readiness; checks equipment according to schedule; cleans and maintains station facilities in accordance with District polices.
  • Responds to hazardous material emergencies; identifies potential hazardous material situations and determines strategy for dealing with incident; follows evacuation procedures including the proper handling of contaminated patients; sets up and provides decontamination.
  • Performs rescue efforts; determines tactics to use and ensures the safety of all rescue personnel and observers. Participates in search operations; enters hazardous environments; administers appropriate rescue techniques.
  • Participates in training; attends mandatory training classes including CPR, EMS recertification, hazardous materials incidents, and infection control; participates in practice drills and physical fitness activities.
  • Represents the District with dignity, integrity, and a spirit of cooperation in all relationships with community members, professional organizations, and governmental agencies.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT
The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Mobility to climb ladders and work at considerable heights; fight fires wearing protective equipment weighing approximately 58 pounds; use power driven tools; stand for extended periods of time; walk on uneven terrain; lift and carry up to 100 pounds. Work is performed under adverse environmental conditions including exposure to smoke, chemicals, bodily fluids, electrical current, and life-threatening environments.

Requirements
Required Knowledge of:
  • Firefighting and rescue techniques, methods, and practices.
  • Emergency medical procedures and patient assessment techniques appropriate to certification level.
  • Mechanical, chemical, and related characteristics of flammable, explosive, and similar materials.
  • Operation and maintenance of firefighting equipment and apparatus.
  • District policies and procedures.
  • Correct business English, including spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
  • Computer applications involving report generation and data entry.
  • Techniques for dealing with individuals from diverse socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds.

Required Skills in:
  • Learning and mastering a variety of fire-fighting duties, methods, techniques, and effective and safe operation of fire equipment and maintenance of equipment.
  • Evaluating patient's conditions and properly render emergency medical care including the administration of emergency medications.
  • Responding quickly and effectively to changing situations under emergency conditions.
  • Preparing and composing reports and records on activities performed.
  • Communicating effectively in oral and written forms.
  • Contributing to the efficiency and effectiveness of the unit's service to its customers by offering suggestions and directing or participating as an active member of a work team.
  • Following all established safety processes and procedures.