Career explorer
Explore wildland fire career paths.
Understand the work, the environment, and how people typically get started.
Handcrews
Hand-tool crews that build fireline on foot — a common entry point.
Read overviewHotshot Crews
Highly trained, nationally available crews assigned to demanding incidents.
Read overviewEngine Crews
Crews operating wildland fire engines for initial attack and suppression.
Read overviewHelitack
Crews that use helicopters to reach and support fires quickly.
Read overviewFederal Wildland Fire Careers
Positions with federal land management agencies, posted on USAJOBS.
Read overviewState & Local Careers
State forestry agencies, counties, and local departments with wildland roles.
Read overviewSeasonal Opportunities
Temporary roles aligned with fire season — how many careers begin.
Read overviewCompare
Compare up to three paths.
| Handcrews | Engine Crews | Helitack | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type of work | Fireline construction on foot | Initial attack with engines | Aviation-supported attack |
| Typical schedule | Seasonal, long assignments | Station-based shifts | Seasonal, base-centered |
| Physical demands | High | Moderate–high | High |
| Entry-level accessibility | Common entry point | Accessible | Moderate |
General overview only. Duties, schedules, and requirements vary by agency, location, and year — always confirm with the official hiring agency.