Wildland Firefighter Jobs

About The Position

Requirements

• Knowledge of wildland fire assessment, fire behavior, and strategies and tactics for controlling wildland and residential/wildland fires.
• Knowledge of Montana forest fire rules and regulations, burning permit requirements, and local fire prevention needs.
• Knowledge of the Incident Command System, CPR, first aid, hazardous materials awareness, and radio operation and use.
• Skill in quickly and accurately assessing wildland fire situations and selecting appropriate control strategies and tactics.
• Skill in driving on unimproved roads, reading maps, using a hand compass, and using hand tools, chainsaws, and other firefighting or project-related equipment.
• Ability to plan, organize, and conduct safe, cost-effective wildland fire suppression operations.
• Ability to adapt firefighting strategies and tactics to varied situations, including situations without specific guidelines.
• Ability to perform physically demanding, arduous work for extended periods and meet the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation Policy's arduous physical fitness requirements.
• Ability to walk long distances over steep, uneven terrain; lift and carry objects weighing more than 50 pounds; and dig and clear fire lines using hand tools and chainsaws.
• Ability to operate tools and equipment during shifts lasting 12–16 hours.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and accurately complete agency paperwork.
• Ability to complete required wildland firefighter training and maintain and demonstrate proficiency in applicable knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods in office settings.
• Class C Montana driver's license for operating assigned fire engines or vehicles.

Responsibilities

• Direct an initial-attack Helitack module in preparation for and suppression of wildland and residential/wildland interface fires.
• Coordinate daily helicopter operations and manage mission-specific operations assigned to DNRC rotor-wing aircraft, working directly with the Pilot-in-Command.
• Directly supervise a Helitack Crew and, as directed by the Area Aviation Operations Supervisor, a Fuel Tender driver.
• Coordinate and maintain relationships with adjoining DNRC Areas, Federal agencies, and surrounding Counties.
• Supervise seasonal activities related to wildland fire protection, buildings, grounds, vehicles, and fire-related program projects.
• Plan, coordinate, and implement training for permanent and seasonal personnel.
• Perform training, fire prevention, general forestry work, and equipment and facilities maintenance.
• Drive helicopter support vehicles when requested by supervisors.

Benefits

• Work/life balance.
• Generous paid vacation, sick, and holiday leave, with vacation leave increasing with service.
• Longevity pay with continued state service.
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance, and flexible spending accounts.
• Access to free employee medical clinics and telehealth.
• Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution retirement plans, plus an optional 457(b) plan.
• Possible eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
• Career progression and professional development.
• State employee discounts.
• Up to 15 days of military leave with full pay.