About the position
Do you want a meaningful and rewarding summer job? Do you enjoy physical, sometimes strenuous, labor and enjoy the outdoors? Apply to be a firefighter! Each year, DNRC seeks hundreds of dedicated individuals to help protect Montana wildlands from wildfire. These seasonal, temporary firefighting jobs are offered statewide throughout DNRC Units. Employment is generally 3-6 months with work beginning as early as May and ending in late September with the potential to begin as early as April and run as late as October depending on fire activity. We provide training, safety clothing, and protective gear. You bring enthusiasm and the ability to perform courageous outdoor work safely, productively, and responsibly. We offer competitive pay with opportunities for growth and additional compensation. NEW: As a DNRC Firefighter you are eligible for added assignment pay of 10% in addition to your regular hourly rate for employees assigned to and supporting authorized emergency work. Applications are accepted each year beginning in January. Don't be alarmed if you don't hear from us right away - it can be into spring before we start contacting applicants for interviews. Feel free to reach out to the contact listed on the recruitment announcement with questions you may have. These seasonal positions will be open until filled with our first review of applications starting mid to late February. Applications will be reviewed every two weeks until filled. Early application is strongly encouraged.
Responsibilities
- Performs various firefighting duties.
- Plans and directs the suppression of fires as the leader of an initial attack crew.
- Serves as incident commander on wildland/urban interface and wildland (forest and range) fires as assigned.
- Keeps crew time records.
- Enforces safety standards.
- Procures supplies.
- Enforces maintenance standards for vehicles, pump tools and other equipment.
- Collects data for fire reports and assists in completion of reports.
- Trains and evaluates crew member performance and identifies training needs.
- Directs communication between fire and dispatcher.
- Operates Type V Type VI fire engines.
Requirements
- 18 years of age at time of hire.
- Valid Driver's License.
- Two years of experience in wildland fire suppression with supervisory responsibilities.
- Must have successfully performed on two qualifying uncontrolled fires as a firefighter.
- Performance on one qualifying uncontrolled fire as a type 5 Incident Commander is desirable.
- Must complete a physical performance test known as the 'Pack Test' which requires you to carry a 45-pound pack the distance of 3 miles in not more than 45 minutes.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience in mechanical repair, carpentry, map reading, compass and GPS use.
- Experience in the use and operation of specialized firefighting equipment such as pumps, chainsaws and firing devices.
Benefits
- Paid Leave & Holidays
- Retirement Plan
