HELENA - Multiple different firefighting positions recently opened at the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).
The applications, which opened on Feb. 1, are for multiple different jobs that varying from seasonal to full-time. DNRC Fire Protection Bureau Chief Matthew Hall says that these jobs are vital to the health and safety of Montana and her citizens.
“Right now, Montana faces a forest health and a bit of a wildfire crisis with some of the activity we've seen and the increase that we're seeing over the years. And so, these are the critical jobs that are the day-to-day response of these firefighters protecting lives, property, and natural resources across Montana. And so, it's absolutely vital to the state that we get these positions filled,” said Hall.
The jobs include Fire Operation Specialists, Helitack Crew Members, Wildland Firefighters, Dispatchers, Timber Technicians, and more. The DNRC is required to provide training for state firefighters. The agency designs, develops, and delivers training courses to its own permanent and seasonal firefighting personnel at no cost.
“In applicants, we're looking for somebody that's motivated, that likes the outdoors, and is willing to work as a, with a team," Hall explained. "Those are key components to a firefighter who on a day-to-day doesn't know who they may be working with in the field."
Candidates must also meet minimum fitness levels for certain positions, as some fieldwork, especially in emergencies, requires above-average endurance and superior physical conditioning for extended periods of time.
Base pay for these jobs starts at $16.05, a .55 cent increase from a recent $15.50 minimum wage for wildland firefighters.
