What does a Wildland Firefighter do?
A wildland or forest firefighter is a person trained to fight and help prevent wildfires. Wildland firefighters work in forests, grasslands and other outdoor places where wildfires are likely to occur. They usually work in teams with other firefighters. With additional education and training, they can specialize and advance to leadership positions.
Source:
Get career advice
Our career coaches can help you make a plan.
Working as a Wildland Firefighter
The regular duties of a wildland firefighter include:
- Fighting and extinguishing wildfires
- Performing fire prevention activities such as preparing firebreaks
- Rescuing people trapped in wildfire situations
- Providing emergency medical treatment as needed
- Maintaining and cleaning vehicles and equipment
How much does a Wildland Firefighter make in the United States?
Average base salary
The average salary for a wildland firefighter is $24.19 per hour in the United States. 209 salaries reported, updated at September 11, 2023
Where can a Wildland Firefighter earn more?
Compare salaries for Wildland Firefighters in different locations
How much do similar professions get paid in United States?
Firefighter
Job openingsAverage $52,795 per year
Firefighter/Paramedic
Job openingsAverage $67,726 per year
Firefighter/Emt
Job openingsAverage $54,575 per year
Fire Chief
Job openingsAverage $103,980 per year
Volunteer Firefighter
Job openingsAverage $19.43 per hour
Lieutenant
Job openingsAverage $64,524 per year
Common questions about for a Wildland Firefighter
Do you need a college degree to become a wildland firefighter?
You don't need a college degree to be hired as a wildland firefighter, however you may need one to advance in your career. If you are interested in a leadership position, you can earn associate's, bachelor's and master's degrees in fire science. While not required at the application stage, having one of these degrees might be beneficial to your application.
How can I know if I am being paid fairly as a wildland firefighter?
If you’re unsure about what salary is appropriate for a wildland firefighter, visit Indeed's Salary Calculator to get a free, personalized pay range based on your location, industry and experience.
How physically fit do you need to be to become a wildland firefighter?
All firefighters are held to high standards of physical fitness, not least wildland firefighters. At a minimum, you must be able to complete a three-mile hike without running in no more than 45 minutes while carrying a 45-pound pack. If you want to become a smokejumper, which is a firefighter who parachutes into inaccessible areas, the requirements are stricter. They include being able to complete a 1.5 mile run in less than 11 minutes and a level terrain hike in less than 90 minutes carrying a 110-pound pack.
