USFS Fire

[GreatWhite]

Hey Everyone,

I thought I would post this here just to see if anyone can help me out. I am interested in becoming a firefighter with the forest service. I currently am EMT certified and have my A.S. Degree in Fire Technology. Currently I am working as a Personal Trainer and as I do like my job I really want to pursue a career in the fire service. I am in Southern California currently but am willing to relocate. Does anybody have any advice?

Thanks!

-Patrick

[fishnhunt]

at this point in time most (if not all) of our firefighters are on for this season (but it's still worth a try for this year). They get countless applications turned in every spring and the way to ensure you get a job is to call the FMO (fire management officer) and the engine captains (or crew bosses) and talk to them about the job and their expectations. You wil want to apply for more than one location (but you will want to talk to each location before applying so your name floats to the top!). Expect to work seasonally for atleast 5 years (or longer) before you become perm and get benefits. Another option which is more popular in CA than other places is the appentance program. With this program you work for 2-3 years rotating through shots, helitack, engine, and dispatch. At the end of the program they convert you into a perm position. It's a fun job and it can also take alot out of you. Who you know is as important as what you know in this field. Take every oppertunity for training that you can get it'll get you that perm job quicker. Often they won't tell you about the trainings since there are so many people in that dept. Just keep your ears open and ask! Hopefully this all makes sense...i typed it all out on my phone so it's hard to proof. If you have any questions feel free to ask away!

[baco]

Hiring is complete for the most part this year. Take all the wildland classes you can. Get on avue digital and get you app in by Feb for next years seasonal work. Like said above get your name out there. Go to the stations and turn in resumes and get to know the captains. You may also want to try and get on a AD crew. I know San Bernardino has one out of victorvill college and the Angeles has a few (rio hondo college and the monarcs that burbank fire runs) With the economy the way it is it is getting difficult to get hired but if you do the leg work it can be done.

[GreatWhite]

Thank you for the responses. I just applied for the California Region 5 Apprentice program. I am hoping that something will become of it. I am learning like everyone has said that it is a lot about who you know, and getting to know people is very key when they go through making selections. I look forward to updating everyone soon on what my status is.

-Patrick

[hyrider]

Patrick good luck, where you can I would go out meet some of the overhead where you are interested in working. I still have your email address and when our Temp roster opens up I'll send you that info if something doen't work out with the app. The announcements should be out around the first of the year. Thanks for getting me interested in the JHO forums again, I hadn't log on for almost 2 years.