Wildfire Fighter – Minnesota DNR

Jobs across the state to help fight wildfires

The MN Department of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry, is currently hiring Smokechasers and Wildfire Response Leads as wildland firefighters.

No experience is necessary to become a Smokechaser.  Training is provided, schedules are flexible and there are jobs available across the state.  Smokechasers work on a call-when-needed basis.  It’s a fun, adventuresome, and meaningful way to protect your community while earning some extra money.

Some wildfire experience or education is required for our Wildfire Response Lead positions.  These are full-time, permanent, seasonal positions represented by the AFSCME union.  They include State employee benefits like paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.

Smokechaser 

Positions start at $15.15 per hour with raises based on experience and qualifications. These are seasonal, call-when-needed jobs with flexible scheduling. No experience is necessary and training is provided. Visit the map of DNR Forestry offices and field stations to see all possible work locations. Smokechasers must be able to pass the NWCG Work Capacity Test at the moderate level (able to walk two miles within 30 minutes while wearing a 25-pound vest or backpack).

For more information or to apply, contact your nearest MN DNR Fire Team Leader:

Wildfire Response Lead 

Positions are paid $18.50 – $23.97 per hour and are full-time, seasonal jobs available in Brainerd, Eveleth, Grand Rapids, Aitkin, Deer River, Hill City, McGrath, Orr, Tower and Warroad.

Apply on the Minnesota State Careers website under Job IDs 72864 and 72865  by February 20, 2024. You must be an NWCG Firefighter Type 2 and have either two months’ wildland firefighting experience or an associate degree with emphasis in wildland firefighting. You also must be able to pass the NWCG Work Capacity Test at moderate level and able to obtain a commercial driver’s license. For more information e-mail Clarissa Spicer at  clarissa.spicer@state.mn.us. Visit the Wildfire Response Lead Locations map for all work locations.