Wildland Firefighter: Frontline Suppression & Heavy Equipment

State of South Carolina; Cherokee Forest (SC); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

State of South Carolina's Forestry Commission seeks a Wildland Firefighter to perform fire protection duties, suppression, and related forestry tasks. You will operate heavy equipment, assist with firebreaks, prescribed burns, and reporting, under supervision, and participate in ongoing training.

The role requires a high school diploma, SC firefighter registration, a valid Class B CDL with ELDT, and the ability to pass fitness and background checks.

Qualifications

• A high school diploma and experience in forest fire protection duties, forestry management, operation of heavy mechanized equipment, or relevant work experience.
• Must pass the agency’s initial physical fitness test (two mile walk with 25 lb. pack in 30 minutes).
• Must obtain firefighter registration with the Office of State Fire Marshal.
• Criminal background check; drug and alcohol test required.
• Must hold Class B CDL and have a CLP prior to employment; ELDT theory training within 15 days and CDL within 90 days.
• Must be a resident of South Carolina, preferably Pickens County or surrounding areas.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs; work indoors and outdoors; rotating 40-hour weeks; on-call and weekend duty; potential extended travel.

Responsibilities

• Responds to forest fire calls and performs suppression duties with bulldozer tractor and handline tools.
• Performs equipment preventive maintenance and facility maintenance per SCFC policies.
• Conducts firebreak plowing, waterbar construction, and prescribed burning assistance; supports forestry activities.
• Participates in annual training and prepares monthly reports (time sheets, equipment, services, fire-related docs).
• Supports agency mission, collaborating with agencies and local groups on sound forestry and fire management.

Skills

Forest fire control knowledge

Heavy equipment operation

Emergency decision making

Reporting and documentation

Education

High school diploma

CDL - Class B with ELDT

Firefighter registration (SC)

Tools

Bulldozer tractor

Water handling equipment

Handline tools

Job description

State of South Carolina's Forestry Commission seeks a Wildland Firefighter to perform fire protection duties, suppression, and related forestry tasks. You will operate heavy equipment, assist with firebreaks, prescribed burns, and reporting, under supervision, and participate in ongoing training.

The role requires a high school diploma, SC firefighter registration, a valid Class B CDL with ELDT, and the ability to pass fitness and background checks.