Step 1:

Complete required entry-level training

Step 2:

Apply with an agency or fire organization (Some employers will support your training after hiring while others require classroom training to already be completed).

Step 3:

Pass the Pack Test

Step 4:

Gain experience through assignments and on-the-job training

Constructing fireline using hand tools and equipment

Operating pumps, engines, and firing devices

Conducting mop-up and securing fire perimeter

Working long hours in steep, rugged terrain

Following direction within an organized incident command structure

12–16+ hour shifts

Extended assignments (often 14 days)

Exposure to heat, smoke, and physically demanding conditions

High accountability. Your performance affects crew safety

Be at least 18 years old

Have a valid driver’s license

Be in good physical condition

Be able to pass the Work Capacity Test (Pack Test)

Be willing to work in adverse and rapidly changing environments

S-130 – Firefighter Training

S-190 – Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior

L-180 – Human Factors in the Wildland Fire Service

ICS-100 & IS-700 – Incident Command System (ICS)

These courses provide the foundation for safe and effective fireline operations. Completing these courses are required to earn Firefighter Type 2 qual.

Pack Test Requirement

3 miles

45-pound pack

Under 45 minutes

You should also be prepared for:

Hiking steep terrain

Carrying tools and equipment

Sustained physical effort over long operational periods

Local fire departments and districts

State agencies (including departments of forestry and fire management)

Federal agencies

Contract crews and private vendors

The Arizona Wildfire Academy provides hands-on, operationally focused training designed to prepare you for real-world conditions.

Experienced instructors with active fireline backgrounds

Scenario-based, field-driven instruction

Emphasis on safety, performance, and decision-making

Training aligned with national standards

Whether you are new to wildland fire or building toward advancement, our courses prepare you for the next step.

A federal employee may only participate in a WCT that follows federal guidance within the Interagency Standards for Fire and Aviation Operations (Red Book).

• DOI: DOI employees should refer to their specific agency chapters in the Red Book for guidance on participating in a WCT.

• FS: A FS employee may not take a WCT administered by a non-federal partner.

Non-agency firefighters will be certified by State or local fire departments, or private training providers approved by a memorandum of understanding (MOU) through their local GACC. Agencies will not assist in the administration or sponsor the work capacity test (WCT) as the certifying agency.

Keep copies of every certificate, taskbook, and eval your earn. Track all fire assignments. You must be able to provides copies to all future employers.

Documents should be kept in a safe place and it’s recommend to keep a backup in cloud storage system such as OneDrive or Google Drive.

Maintain a Responder Update Sheet

Retain copies of every assignment Resource Order (RO) regardless of being on a hand crew, engine or working as a single resource.

Request updated Master Record at the end of each season to support work history.