SAFFORD, Ariz. - The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Gila District is currently recruiting applicants for summer employment during the 2018 fire season. Wildland firefighters provide a valuable service, protecting American communities and public lands. To serve on a fire crew, persons must be at least 18 years of age, have a strong work ethic, be able to pass a pack test, physical, and maintain good physical fitness, be available to travel out of state for extended periods, and be willing to contribute in a team-structured environment.
Applications will be accepted through Feb. 5, 2018. Applicants will be notified in April regarding their selection for one of the 20 positions on the crew. Recruits will receive classroom and field training that will enable them to safely and effectively tackle wildfire suppression.
While most fire duties will be in southeastern Arizona, some assignments may be out of state and last 14 consecutive days, plus travel time. Emergency firefighters are hired on a call-when-needed basis and are only paid during fire and/or work assignments; pay is $18 per hour.
If you think you have what it takes to be a wildland firefighter, and if you seek meaningful employment for several months, please contact Kress Sanders or Michael McCoy at the Gila District fire office located at the BLM Safford Field Office, 711 S. 14th Ave., Safford, Ariz., 85546, 928-348-4400.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management
