Wildland Firefighter

Wildland firefighters prescribe and conduct controlled burns for habitat improvement and fire prevention. They also combat wild forest fires. Common tools used by wildland firefighters include ATVs, hand tools such as axes and shovels, and tanker trucks. Specialized aircraft and drones can also be used for fighting fires. Wildland firefighters help create safe evacuation plans and must be ready to fight fires at all times. Wildland firefighters can take on different roles including smoke jumper, fire ecologist, fire prevention specialist, pilot, and more.

• • Strong, can lift and carry 70 pounds and push/pull 100 pounds
  • Hike several miles at a time
  • Dependable
  • Focused on safety

Median $24/hour: $12.50 – $38/hour

+4%

High school diploma

Recommended 2-year or 4-year degree

NWGG S130/S190 prescribed fire training

• • Forestry
  • Environmental Science
  • Physical Education
  • Biology
  • Chemistry

Wildland firefighters need to be in peak physical health. They must be able to use hand tools to make fire breaks, lift heavy objects, and hike long distances. Wildland firefighters work long days when called to a fire. On days without fire, wildland firefighters plan prescribed burns and practice fire suppression methods. They use many modes of transportation while on the job including hiking, 4x4s, ATVs, and tractors.

• • Communicate clearly
  • Plan and prepare effectively
  • Operate complex equipment
  • Use hand tools
  • Pay attention to detail
  • Problem Solve
  • Work collaboratively

• • Fight fires
  • Maintain and repair equipment
  • Assist in fire training, orientation, and education programs
  • Record and maintain fire logs
  • Interpret weather and plan burns
  • Use radio and GPS

Wisconsin DNR: Wildland Firefighter Employment

USFS: Wildland Fire Careers

USFS: Careers in Wildland Fire

Ag Explorer: Wildland Firefighter/Fire Tower Watchman

Fox Valley Technical College: Wildland Firefighter associate’s degree information