Employment Opportunities
2008 Fire Season
Each season, the MBS IA Crew seeks quality diverse candidates to fill wildland firefighter crewmember positions. The fire season for MBS IA typically starts in early May and ends in late October, depending upon the severity of the fire season. We typically begin recruitment and hiring as early as January of each year. Crew members are hired as seasonal employees, and will be working full-time during the season.
Crewmembers are hired at the following U.S. Government pay rates: GS-2, GS-3, GS-4, and GS-5. Actual wage amounts vary each year, but these grade levels currently range from $9.98 per hour to $13.58 per hour. These pay rates are based on experience and education. Crewmember positions are temporary-seasonal, so each crewmember is restricted to working no more than 1039 hours each year. This represents base hours only, and does not include overtime hours worked.
Selection Requirements
Successful applicants will meet each of the following requirements:
- Possess a positive attitude
- Have the ability to work with a team
- Be at least 18 years of age and have proof of US Citizenship
- Pass a physical exam that allows you to take the Pack Test
- Pass the Pack Test: carry a 45 pound pack for 3 miles in under 45 minutes
Physical fitness is a cornerstone of the MBS IA program. Applicants are strongly suggested to maintain a rigorous, structured physical training program before the season starts and be prepared to describe their training schedule. Every member of the crew is expected to arrive at work on the first day in excellent physical condition and be prepared to excel in a difficult physical training program. Crewmembers will participate in a daily regimented physical fitness program when not on fires. The crew performs push-ups, sit-ups, dips, chin-ups, and other exercises daily before going on a run from 3 to 6 miles. The crew also hikes nearby trails to further advance their fitness.
How to Apply?
All firefighter positions on the MBS IA crew are filled using an internet-based application and staffing website called AVUE Digital Services. Each person who chooses to apply needs to get a password in AVUE and develop a “profile”. This profile is similar to a job application, where you submit your contact information, work experience, education, special skills, personal references, etc. AVUE then saves your profile, so you can access it or change it whenever you choose. Once you have created your profile, you may use this profile to apply for nearly any firefighting job in the United States Forest Service, including a job with the MBS IA crew. Applying on the internet can be challenging for those not familiar with AVUE. For that reason, we encourage you to contact us if you need assistance. See below for a link to AVUE.
We will update this web site with the most current hiring information as soon as it becomes available. Feel free to utilize the links below, as they will connect you to the most up to date information on applying for temporary fire positions through out the Forest Service.
Inquiring about seasonal work early and often will increase your chances of getting hired. During the winter months, electronic mail (gdwilliams@fs.fed.us or rpoyner@fs.fed.us) is the best way to contact us but please feel free to give us a call at 360-436-1155 ext. 233 or 230..
A Note to Career Development Staff
The MBS IA crew is committed to assisting applicants in their pursuit of a job with the USDA Forest Service. Realizing that very few young men and women are aware of the opportunities in the USDA-FS, and that the application process is daunting for many potential employees, we are willing to provide “in person” assistance when possible. If you are affiliated with a career development program within the Puget Sound region and have an audience of potentially interested applicants, please contact us. In the past, we have put on presentations that not only introduce folks to the Forest Service, but also guide them through the application process on-line.
Please remember that it is our goal to reach a diverse audience that has not been exposed to the opportunities that a job with the USDA Forest Service can provide. If you contact us, we’ll be happy to discuss what assistance we can provide.
