Fire Crew Member

Are you a physically fit, motivated, team-oriented individual looking for a challenging and dynamic opportunity?

The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) is a unique program of government tasked with the responsibility of preventing and managing wildfire on the landscape. With a workforce of approximately 1,600, the program’s staff are dedicated to undertaking the BCWS mandate in delivering effective wildfire management and emergency response support to protect values, while encouraging sustainable, healthy and resilient ecosystems.

This position is responsible for maintaining the readiness of fire equipment and resources in accordance with alert preparedness levels and taking aggressive action on fires in a safe and effective manner as directed.

The majority of fire crews begin work in late April or early May and work until the end of August. Some crews remain working into September, or even into October, depending on fire conditions and activity. Fire crews usually work regular hours during the hottest part of the day, 10:30 to 18:30, when fires are most likely to start. The normal work shift is seven hours per day and 35 hours per week. A fire fighter is guaranteed a 3-5 month work term depending on location of employment and fire activity.

When on active fire duty, staff may work longer days and can remain on fire duty for up to 14 days before getting days off. For safety reasons, the actual number of days a fire fighter works on the fire line is limited and followed by days of rest or light duty. If crews are not on a fire but the fire danger is high, fire fighters may be placed on standby, meaning they must be ready to respond immediately once a fire call comes in. Fire fighters may be placed on standby for extended periods throughout the fire season, including their weekends and after hours.