Fire Seasonal Wildland Firefighter 1 - Swan Lake

Munro Footwear Group; Swan Lake; On-site; CAD 30,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A seasonal firefighting program is seeking dedicated individuals for the role of Fire Seasonal Wildland Firefighter in Swan Lake. This position involves leading firefighting efforts, maintaining equipment, and training team members. Ideal candidates must be physically fit, hold a valid driver's license, and pass a rigorous performance test. The job offers $20.05 – $20.74 per hour, with benefits including paid leave and retirement plans. Housing is available at the Swan Lake location.

Benefits

Paid leave

Holidays

Retirement plan

Housing available

Qualifications

• Must pass the DNRC Pack Test: 45-lb pack, 3 miles in 45 minutes.
• Valid driver's license with fewer than 12 conviction points.
• Must be 18 years old at the time of hire.

Responsibilities

• Perform various firefighting duties including incident commander.
• Maintain crew time records and enforce safety standards.
• Train and evaluate crew members.

Skills

Firefighting duties

Physical stamina

Teamwork

Chainsaw operation

Mechanical repair

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Job Description

Fire Seasonal Wildland Firefighter 1 – Swan Lake (25143098). The Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) offers seasonal, temporary firefighting jobs statewide. These positions are typically 3–6 months, begin as early as April or May, and can run until late September or October depending on fire activity. Smoking dress & protective gear are provided; applicants bring enthusiasm, physical stamina, and a strong sense of responsibility.

Responsibilities

• Perform various firefighting duties including acting as leader of an initial attack crew and, when assigned, as incident commander on wildland/urban interface and forest fires.
• Maintain crew time records, enforce safety and maintenance standards for vehicles and equipment.
• Plan and direct fire suppression efforts, procure supplies, and assist in fire report completion.
• Train and evaluate crew members, identify training needs, and maintain communication with dispatch.
• Operate Type V and Type VI fire engines.
• Perform non-fire tasks such as chainsaw use, mechanical repair, and carpentry as required.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent (students may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis).
• Minimum age 18 at time of hire.
• Valid driver’s license with less than 12 conviction points in the past 36 months.
• Successful completion of a physical performance test (DNRC’s Pack Test: 45‑lb pack, 3 miles in 45 minutes).
• Eligibility to work in the United States (proof within 3 days of hire).

Application Materials Required

• State application (submission through the State of Montana website).
• Resume.
• Cover Letter that answers the following questions:
  • Describe your training and work experience in wildland/urban interface and wildland (forest and range) firefighting. Include current Red Card qualifications and fire training courses completed.
  • Describe any outdoor recreation experience relevant to wildland firefighting.
  • Explain your ability to perform physically demanding work for long periods in hot, dirty conditions and how you maintain physical fitness.
  • Describe experience working with helicopters or other aircraft.
  • Provide an example of working effectively with a diverse group of people.
  • Discuss any skills related to chainsaw use, mechanical repair, carpentry, or other tasks requested of seasonal firefighters.
  • Describe team experiences where you helped a group reach a common goal.

Selection Process

The DNRC will evaluate application materials, resume, cover letter, interview, references, and a pack test. Documentation of veteran or disability status (if claimed) must be provided at application time.

Salary and Benefits

$20.05 – $20.74 per hour. Telework eligibility: Not Telework Eligible. Benefits: Paid leave & holidays, retirement plan.

Additional Information

• Housing is available at the Swan Lake location.
• Positions will remain open until filled; additional screening may continue after openings are filled.
• Applicants must be at least 18 years old, hold a valid driver’s license, and have fewer than 12 conviction points in the most recent 36 months.
• All firefighters must pass the DNRC Pack Test within three weeks of employment.

Job Details

• Number of Openings: 4
• Employee Status: Seasonal (less than 6 months)
• Schedule: Variable
• Job Type: Standard
• Shift: Day Job
• Travel: Yes, 50 % of the time
• Primary Location: Swan Lake, Agency: Department of Natural Resources & Conservation, Union: None
• Posting Date: Jan 5 2026, 2:00 AM
• Closing Date: Ongoing

Contact Information

Name: Stacey Gabrio
Phone: 406‑444‑3309
Email: [e-mail]

EEO Statement

State government does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, creed, political belief or affiliation, veteran status, military service, retaliation, or any other factor not related to merit and qualifications of an employee or applicant.