Photo courtesy of Mesa Interagency Hotshot Crew: Forest firefighters battle the Pinnacle Fire on the ground up close.
Contributed article
SAFFORD – The Gila District Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is currently recruiting candidates for seasonal firefighters called as needed for the 2022 fire season. Wildland firefighters provide a valuable service, protecting American communities and public lands.
To be part of a wildland firefighting team, individuals must be at least 18 years of age, have a strong work ethic, be able to pass a physical fitness test and medical exam, maintain good form physical, traveling out of state for extended periods of time, and contributing to a team-structured environment. If selected, the candidate must comply with Executive Order 14043 – Federal employees must be fully immunized against COVID-19.
Applications will be accepted until March 18. Applicants will be notified in April of their selection for one of 20 firefighter positions. and can apply the following methods:
- Request and return the forms by email to the email address listed below.
- Pick up and drop off forms at the local Safford office located at 711 S. 14and Ave. Reception is open for in-person walk-in service – applicants wishing to pick up or drop off forms can do so and must comply with posted COVID-19 safety protocols.
Although most fire duties are in southeastern Arizona, some assignments may be out of state and last 14 consecutive days, plus travel time. Recruits will be classified as Administratively Determined (AD) emergency firefighters, hired on call when needed, and are paid only during fire and/or work assignments; pay is $19.72 per hour.
Recruits will receive classroom and on-the-job training, along with all essential equipment that will enable them to perform wildfire suppression safely and effectively.
If you think you have what it takes to be a forest firefighter and are looking for a rewarding job for several months, please contact Bernie Romero, 928-348-4424 or [email protected].
To learn more about BLM’s Fire and Aviation program in Arizona, visit blm.gov/r/fire/az.
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