AFS Fire Specialists
The AFS Branch of Fire Operations maintains a pool of fire specialists stationed at Fort Wainwright in Fairbanks. Fire Specialists primarily respond to extended attack fires within Alaska, and during high fire activity initial attack fires. Typical fire assignments include: Firefighter, Strike Team Leader, Task Force Leader, Division Supervisor, Air Operations, Crew Representative, and Incident Commander. Some Fire Specialists fulfill positions on Type 1, 2, and 3 Teams. Fire Specialists are the primary pool of personnel available to support the AFS Fire Management Zones and cooperators in suppression, aviation, and prescribed fire activities.
The Alaska field season typically runs from April to September with assignments to the Lower 48 likely as fire danger here moderates typically in mid-July. We also provide training developers and instructors in prescribed fire, fire operations and aviation management..
While not on fire assignment, Fire Specialists may perform project work such as: Prescribed fire, fireline equipment development, aviation mission planning, training coordination and support, and instructing fire and aviation courses.
Housing and Food
Housing is available at the BLM AFS barracks while stationed at Fort Wainwright. The barracks are set up as single rooms with shared bathrooms and are supplied with bedding and towels. Meals are available at the dining hall. Housing at field stations will range from elaborate to rustic. All field stations have a mess hall, but you may be required to do your own cooking at some of them.
- Training
Due to the multi-faceted aspect of the Fire Specialist Section, extensive classroom and on the job training is conducted prior to the active fire season. Fire Specialists are proactive in preparing individuals for a variety of fire and aviation management positions through quality experience and training. An average first-year Fire Specialist attends four to six weeks of training including the FSS training and “S” and “I” courses. Individuals who are Single Resource Boss and ICT4 qualified are at an ideal level of experience for entry-level Fire Specialist positions.
Fire Specialists begin work around the middle of March. Depending on training needs, this date may be earlier. Alaska Fire Service maintains an ambitious fire and aviation training schedule. An Interagency Training Center is located on the AFS campus. To see the current training schedule, visit Fire Training.
- Physical Fitness
Fire Specialists are required to participate in a daily physical training program. All candidates will be required to complete the Work Capacity Test at the Arduous level, which consists of a three-mile hike with a 45-pound pack in 45 minutes or less. All Fire Specialist are highly encouraged to participate in the BLM National Fire Operations Fitness Challenge.
MEDICAL STANDARDS PROGRAM
The Alaska Fire Service participates in the DOI Medical Standards Program requiring medical exams every three years. For more information, please see the Medical Standards Program.- Recruitment
The Fire Specialist Section is looking for individuals who are ready to step up and take on one of the most unique and challenging jobs within the wildland fire community. A Fire Specialist must be adaptable, reliable, and motivated in a wide variety of ever-changing situations.
Individuals who are Crew Boss or Helicopter Boss qualified are at an ideal level of experience for entry-level Fire Specialist Positions.
How to apply: The Fire Specialists usually hire two to four positions annually. Announcements will be advertised on USA Jobs website, please call for annual hiring plans.
Additional inquiries on hiring or detail opportunities can be e-mailed to Fire Specialist Chief Miles Bond: [email protected] or phone 907-356-5668.