Do You Want To Fight Wyoming Wildland Fires?

As a child, there are a few jobs that kids aspire to have when they grow up. Cowboy, Astronaut, Soldier, Police officer, and Firefighter all come to mind. The jobs are high-profile and seem really cool.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a firefighter who fights wildfires, like the Red Canyon, Sleeper Ranch, or Dollar Lake Fires that have been burning this year?

Dedication and the desire to work long hours in conditions that are not great. If you like a challenge, this could be a position for you.

Shilo Springstead, a Forest Training Officer for the Forest Service, describes what it's like:

In this position, you will be challenged mentally and physically. It betters you as a person by giving you leadership skills, building your arena in fitness and mental strength as well as being paid to travel. It’s a dynamic world in fire and it’s very rewarding.

There are approximately 10,000 people employed by the Forest Service in various positions.

• Wildland Firefighter
  • Engine Crews
  • Helitack Crews
  • Handcrews
  • Fire Equipment/ Dozer Operators
  • Wildland Fire Modules
  • Hotshot Crews
  • Smokejumpers
  • Rappellers
  • Fire Prevention Specialists
• Wildland Firefighter Apprentice was designed to enhance and develop future leaders in Wildland Firefighting.
• Dispatchers
• Fuels Management
  • Technicians gather data and execute plans to reduce wildfires.
  • Fuels Specialists work with other agencies to plan for the treatment of fuels.
  • Fire Planners & Analysts predict fire behavior.
  • Ecologists study how fire affects plants, animals, and insect species to better understand the impact.
• Fire Training personnel implement wildland fire training, management, and other programs to support the development of future firefighters.
• Warehouse Positions provide supplies and equipment to support fire incidents.
• Fire Program Managers manage all aspects of a fire's area.

Talk about a rewarding job. If you're looking, working in the Wildland Firefighting field can take you places. There are jobs available all over the country.