Hours/Pay/Benefits for Hotshots

Temporary firefighters work a five-day, 40 hr. workweek. Hourly wages are based on the firefighters experience, education and position they are hired in. Most seasonal positions (2009) are in the GS-03 ($12.79/hr) to GS-05 ($16.06/hr) grade level. Overtime is paid at 1 and 1/2 times for all hours over the regular shift. When working on uncontrolled wildfires, you receive hazard pay which is an additional 25% of your hourly wage for each hour worked that day.

Firefighters get two scheduled days off each week, not necessarily on the weekend. During fire emergencies, days off are often cancelled. Extended work shift of 16 hours or more are not uncommon.

You will be paid every two weeks, but often the first check is not received until after four weeks of employment. Direct Deposit of payroll is required. For each pay period worked (two weeks) you earn sick and annual leave. As a seasonal employee, there are no insurance benefits, but you are covered by workers compensation if injured on the job.