Fire is a natural and essential component of many ecosystems. When managed properly, it serves as an effective tool for maintaining and restoring ecological balance. By integrating fire into land management practices, we’re supporting biodiversity and sustaining resilient ecosystems for wildlife and people.

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Fire is a natural and essential component of many ecosystems. When managed properly, it serves as an effective tool for maintaining and restoring ecological balance. By integrating fire into land management practices, we’re supporting biodiversity and sustaining resilient ecosystems for wildlife and people.

Approximately 55 percent (50 million acres) of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lands—including marshes, forests, and prairies—have evolved with fire and benefit from periodic fire to maintain their health and productivity. Low intensity fire, like prescribed fire, help to prevent the buildup of combustible materials, which in turn reduces wildfire risk to communities, and promotes the growth of native vegetation, and enhance habitats for wildlife.

Latest Stories and Topics

Stories
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Emergency Management
Taking Flight to Fight Wildland Fire
Brandon Williams, a USFWS wildland firefighter apprentice at San Luis National Wildlife Refuge Complex in California, took on the challenge of becoming a helitack crewmember — a firefighter specialized in wildland fire helicopter response. 
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Emergency Management
Reducing Wildfire Risk in Montana
To reduce the threat of catastrophic wildfire, in May 2024 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) fire managers joined other federal and state wildland fire personnel in conducting what may be the largest prescribed fire in Montana history. Funding for the prescribed fire came from the Bipartisan...
Six firefighters stand in a line for a photo. They are all in yellow nomex and fire pants. They are standing on a dry road with dry vegetation behind them.
Our People
Increasing Fire Resilience in Madagascar
Andy Schell, Montana Fire Zone Assistant Fire Management Officer for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, assists with wildfire management work in Madagascar through the U.S. Forest Service’s International Programs and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This year Andy...
A large group of people in fire gear stand as a group and pose for a photo along what looks to be a dirt road
Emergency Management
Embracing Tradition: A Bilingual Journey through International Fire Exchanges
Hi! My name is Agustin Rodriguez, but my friends call me Jaime. I’m an Engine Captain at Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge in California. I grew up in a Spanish speaking household, and because of that I am fluent in Spanish and English. Being bilingual has provided me with some incredible...
A view down a dirt road with firefighters standing on the right side and small flames on the left side. There are trees interspersed on the landscape.
Emergency Management
From Microscopes to Flames: A Journey into Wildland Firefighting
Life's journey often leads us down unexpected paths. One moment, you're entrenched in a career as a biological technician, the next, you find yourself amidst the flames as a wildland fire apprentice. Join us as we look at this apprentice’s journey into the world of wildland fire, exploring the...
Seven recent graduates of the wildland fire apprentice program pose for a photo in their uniforms
Wildland Fire Apprentice Program Fosters Excellence
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Wildfire Apprentice Program teaches operational skills and leadership development in the challenging wildland fire environment. Diverse recruits to the program will shape the future of wildland firefighting, helping to reduce wildfires on wildlife refuges and in...
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Our Services

What We Do

Two firefighters stand near a prescribed fire that is burning in thin trees. One firefighter is pointing to the fire and there are two drip torches on the ground.
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The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's wildland fire program is to support the National Wildlife Refuge System's conservation lands. We are committed to integrity, accountability, safety, and resilience, to foster a service culture that protects neighboring communities and our natural resource treasures.

We have four primary focus areas for wildland fire management:

  • Fuels Management: This involves reducing the buildup of flammable materials through techniques such as prescribed burns, mechanical treatments,
  •  and vegetation thinning.
  • Wildfire Management: We remain prepared for and respond to wildfires, employing strategies to contain and mitigate their impact on natural habitats and nearby communities.
  • Wildfire Prevention: Through education, outreach, and policy, we work to prevent wildfires.
  • Post-Fire Emergency Stabilization and Restoration: After wildfires, we stabilize and restore affected landscapes, ensuring the recovery of ecosystems and habitats.

By focusing on these core areas, we uphold our commitment to effective fire management, safeguarding the public and biodiversity, improving ecological health and enhancing the resilience of our natural environments.

Nationally, across Service lands:

  • 370,000 acres burn in wildfires annually (10-year average)
  • 342,845 acres are treated with prescribed fire annually (10-year average)
  • 498 FWS fire management professionals 
  • Almost 80% of all Service lands include fire-adapted vegetation that provides habitat for key species, including threatened and endangered species

Work With Us

Wildland Firefighting… Not Your Ordinary Job

USFWS, Tandem

Wildland Firefighting… Not Your Ordinary Job

Joining the wildland fire team at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service isn't just a job—it's an adventure unlike any other!

Out of all the agencies within the Department of the Interior, we stand alone in our mission to conserve and protect fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. Imagine being part of a team dedicated to preserving nature's wonders and ensuring the health of our ecosystems. We use prescribed fire strategically to maintain the natural balance these landscapes need to thrive. In fact, we're responsible for applying half of all prescribed fire acres across the country among Department of the Interior agencies!

When fire season ignites, our crews spring into action, supporting wildfire suppression efforts nationwide. This means traveling to remote and breathtaking locations that few people ever get to experience.

We pride ourselves on being a welcoming community to all by fostering a tight-knit, inclusive fire family. Whether you're starting your firefighting career, seeking a lifelong commitment to conservation, or simply looking for a place where you belong, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service offers a supportive and fulfilling environment.

Join us and become part of a team where every day brings new challenges, incredible experiences, and the opportunity to make a real difference.

Explore the benefits of joining our wildland fire team:

  • Competitive Compensation: Enjoy competitive pay with opportunities for full federal benefits.
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness: Qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness, easing the burden of student loans.
  • Retirement Benefits: Become eligible for retirement after just 20 years of dedicated service.
  • Comprehensive Healthcare: Access healthcare plans that include medical, dental, and vision coverage.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Entry-Level Opportunities: No prior experience required for entry-level positions, making this an ideal starting point if you’re passionate about conservation and fire management.
  • Citizenship Requirements: Candidates must be U.S. citizens or nationals.
  • Education: A high school diploma or GED is required.
  • Age Requirement: Applicants must be between 18 and 37 years old at the time of hire, with exceptions possible under certain circumstances.
Two firefighters stand in front of a fire engine and hand each other supplies needed to cut down trees in a recent burn area. They are standing on a paved road and you can see burned trees and vegetation in the background.
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Join us and embark on a rewarding career protecting and preserving our nation's natural treasures.

Spread the word! Know someone who'd be a perfect fit for our team? Check out our exciting career opportunities and explore our recruitment rack card (PDF) and Keeping Fire on Our Side (PDF) brochure.

New to a career in wildland fire? Our Wildland Fire Apprenticeship Program is an excellent entry point for those looking to start a career in wildland fire management. Through hands-on training and mentorship, apprentices gain the skills and knowledge necessary to protect vital habitats and manage fire-prone landscapes. Join us and be a part of a dedicated team working to safeguard our natural resources. Learn more about the Wildland Fire Apprenticeship Program.

Applying for a Fire Job on USAJobs

Navigating the application process for a federal fire job can feel complex and overwhelming at times. Fortunately, the National Interagency Fire Center has developed informative video clips to guide you through each step.

Social Media

Our national fire program's social media pages are rich with up-to-date information and job vacancy announcements. Stay informed about open positions by liking and following our Facebook and X pages!

Follow our #FireHire Tips for the dos and don’ts of applying for federal jobs. Check out these helpful tips below!

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