BLM Seeks Seasonal Wildland Firefighters to Combat Emergency Crises

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has initiated recruitment efforts for emergency wildland firefighters within its Gila District, which encompasses Tucson and Safford. The call for applicants comes ahead of the 2025 fire season, scheduled to start in the spring.

Prospective firefighters must be at least 18 years old and undergo a fitness test alongside a medical examination. The role also entails readiness for travel outside of Arizona for extended periods.

Training will be comprehensive, featuring both field experience and classroom instruction. Essential firefighting equipment will be provided to all recruits.

While the majority of firefighting duties will take place in southeast Arizona, some assignments may extend to other states for durations of up to two weeks.

Compensation for seasonal firefighters ranges between $22.16 and $24.36 per hour, with on-call status expected for crew members.

The BLM is accepting applications until February 21, with applicants receiving notifications regarding their status in April. Interested candidates can apply by reaching out to hmartin@blm.gov or by visiting the BLM’s Safford Field Office, located at 711 S. 14th Ave in Safford, Arizona.

In a related note, the U.S. Forest Service has imposed a hiring freeze for all seasonal positions, with the exception of firefighters, due to budget constraints. This hiring freeze is projected to remain in effect until at least September 2025.