Wildland Firefighter Seasonal Position

Job Specification: Wildland Firefighter
Division: Emergency Operations – Wildland
Reports To: Deputy Chief of Operations or Assigned Supervisor
Work Schedule: 32 hours a week (excluding deployments)

Pay Scale:  $23.50-$27.50 depending on experience, Out of District Deployment Differential of 30%.

Start date:  May 3rd, 2027 ending October 7th, 2027 (mutually agreed extension is possible)
Classification: Time-Limited/Seasonal Employment

 

Mission

The Central Valley Fire District serves our communities with excellence through the delivery of services to preserve life and property.

 

Vision

At the Central Valley Fire District, we will continue to be progressive leaders in the protection of life and property. We will continue to build a resilient workforce of dedicated public servants to meet and exceed community expectations. We will continue to be innovators in the fields of training, health, safety, and public service through collaboration and professionalism.

 

Values

·         Family - Fostered by supportive relationships.

·         Integrity - Our moral compass.

·         Trust - Earned by our actions.

·         Professionalism - As we serve our community.

 

Position Overview

The Wildland Firefighter is responsible for performing a variety of duties related to wildland and rural fire suppression, management, and control. This includes responding to wildland fires, participating in fuel mitigation projects, and engaging in fire prevention activities. The position demands a high level of physical fitness, the ability to work in challenging environmental conditions, and a commitment to the safety of oneself and others.​

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Fire Suppression and Management:
  • Respond to wildland fires, operating as a member of a fire crew to suppress and control fire outbreaks.
  • Construct fire lines by cutting, clearing, and digging to create barriers that control the spread of fires.​
  • Utilize various firefighting tools and equipment, including chainsaws, hand tools, and pumps.​
  • Perform under emergency conditions requiring strenuous exertion in environments with smoke, high temperatures, and steep terrain.
• Fuel Mitigation and Prevention:
  • Participate in fuel reduction projects to minimize fire hazards, including controlled burns and clearing of vegetation.​
  • Engage in community education efforts to promote fire prevention and safety practices.​
• Equipment and Facility Maintenance:
  • Maintain and repair firefighting equipment and tools to ensure readiness and reliability.​
  • Assist in the upkeep of fire stations and facilities, performing general housekeeping duties.​
• Training and Development:
  • Attend and participate in training sessions to maintain and enhance firefighting skills and knowledge.​
  • Stay informed about current wildfire behavior, weather analysis, and firefighting techniques.​
• Documentation and Reporting:
  • Record and document pertinent information related to emergency incidents, including fire behavior observations and actions taken.​
  • Complete required reports and maintain accurate records as directed.​

 

Qualifications and Knowledge Requirements

• Knowledge of:
  • Wildland fire behavior, suppression tactics, and incident management strategies.​
  • Operation and maintenance of firefighting equipment and tools.​
  • Safety procedures and protocols in firefighting operations.​
  • Basic principles of fire weather and topographical influences on fire behavior.​
• Skills and Abilities:
  • Ability to perform strenuous physical labor under adverse conditions for extended periods.​
  • Strong situational awareness and decision-making skills in high-pressure environments.​
  • Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.​
  • Capability to work cohesively within a team and follow supervisory directives.​
  • Proficiency in using firefighting tools and equipment safely and effectively.​

Education and Experience

• Required:
  • High School Diploma or GED.​

o    Valid Montana Class D Driver’s License.​

o    BLS/CPR Card

o    Completion of NWCG L-180, S-190, ICS-100, IS-700  

o    NWCG S-130, field day may be completed within 30 days of hire

• Preferred:
  • Previous experience in wildland firefighting or related fields.​
  • ICS courses 200, 800.​ NWCG courses: S-131, S-112, S-212
  • Red Card qualifications as FFT1, FAL3 (or above)
  • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification.​

Work Environment and Physical Demands

• Work is primarily performed in outdoor settings, often in remote and rugged terrain.​
• Exposure to extreme weather conditions, smoke, and hazardous situations is common.​
• Requires the ability to carry heavy loads, hike long distances, and perform physically demanding tasks.​
• Work schedules may include long hours, irregular shifts, weekends, and holidays, especially during peak fire season.​
• Tiered progression and trainee opportunities.

 

APPLICATION PROCESS

 

Required Materials: See instructions on application cover sheet. Application forms and instructions can be accessed here or by emailing administrator@centralvalleyfire.com.

2027 CVFD Seasonal Wildland Application.pdf

 

Application Deadline: Please submit application by Monday, December 21st, 2026. Positions will remain open until filled.

 

In order to be considered, applicants must submit all the requested application materials according to the application instructions.

 

Central Valley Fire District is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.