Everything you need to know about becoming a wildland firefighter.

Wildland Fire 101 guides you through becoming a wildland firefighter. Navigate the federal hiring process, prepare for the job, and learn how to succeed in this challenging but rewarding career.

A forest with trees, smoke, and small ground-level fires, with a firefighter standing amidst the scene.

Your work on the fireline will help protect our natural lands, safeguard communities, and teach you to face high-risk situations with courage and skill.

But first you’ll have to navigate the federal hiring process…

Person wearing a yellow protective fire uniform and helmet standing in a grassy field with mountains and smoky sky in the background.

HERE TO HELP

Katrina Mohr
Your Humble Guide

I'm a federal wildland firefighter with 14 seasons of experience on engines, fuels crews, hotshot and hand crews, and helitack. I've worked on many firelines and behind the hiring desk, giving me a unique perspective on what it takes to succeed in this career. I created this site to help others navigate the path I once struggled to find myself.

THE BASICS

Want to become a wildland firefighter?

  • Two firefighters standing near a forest fire with flames engulfing trees, dirt road in foreground.

    1. Minimum Requirements

    Learn about the basic qualifications for federal wildland firefighting jobs, from citizenship to fitness requirements.

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  • Firefighters conducting a controlled burn on a rocky hillside with smoke rising, under a hazy sky and mountainous landscape.

    2. Tips for Preparing Your Resume

    Essential resume advice from a federal hiring manager for landing your first wildfire job.

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  • Wildfire burning in a forest with smoke and flames; firefighters in the background with equipment and hoses.

    3. Application Process Overview

    Navigate the competitive federal hiring process and understand required certifications for new firefighters.

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  • Firefighter in smoke-filled forest during a wildfire

    4. Navigating USAJobs

    Step-by-step guide to finding and applying for entry-level wildland firefighter positions.

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  • Firefighters in protective gear approaching a forest fire with smoke and flames visible.

    5. Post-Application Success Strategies

    How to boost your hiring chances after applying: contact strategies and application status insights.

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Three people sitting at a picnic table in a forest, focused on repairing green and yellow clothing. They are wearing caps and casual outdoor attire. A bottle of water and some tools are on the table.

FIELD LIFE

Wondering what wildland firefighter life is like in the field?

My Field Life series covers everything from fire camp living and daily schedules to essential gear and physical demands—from someone who's spent 14 seasons on the frontlines.

Person in outdoor setting wearing a hard hat, sunglasses, and yellow protective clothing, holding a small creature in their hand, with a forest background.

WOMEN IN FIRE

Women in wildland firefighting—yes, you belong here.

I’m a 5-foot-tall woman. I’ve served on many crews where I was often the only female firefighter. While women make up only about 12% of federal wildland firefighters, our numbers are growing. I'm passionate about showing other women this is absolutely a career for them too. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

Firefighting equipment by a lakeside, including a red gas can, yellow bag, green backpack, and hoses, with a forest and smoke in the background.

GEAR LISTS

Tested in fire: Gear that holds up to the heat

From essential tools and comfort items to personal protective equipment and field necessities, I've field-tested tons of gear in harsh conditions. Browse lists of required equipment and discover tried-and-true brands that withstand the demands of the job. Every recommendation has earned its place through countless hours on the fireline.

Two pilots inside a helicopter cockpit flying over mountainous terrain with visible cliffs and a river. They wear helmets and the cockpit displays various instruments.

WORK WITH ME

Looking for more personalized guidance?

I offer one-one-one resume reviews and career coaching to help aspiring wildland firefighters find their unique path into this rewarding career.

“I've wanted to be a wildland fire fighter ever since I heard of such a thing and your blog, along with some other badass women, gave me the courage to apply! This season I'll be working as a wildland firefighter on an engine crew! Thank you thank you”

—Hana

“I used your website […] applying for a wildland fire position this season, and I ended up getting a spot on an engine crew! I have had a great time so far, and I seriously would not have been able to get this job and be prepared for it without your help.”

—Christina

“Thanks for the hard work you've put into this site, especially talking through the hiring process—most clear steps I've been able to find. Especially your tips on improving a USAJobs resume, that was gold.”

—John