How do I get a job as a hotshot?
The application process for Federal Hotshot employment typically goes through USAJOBS.com, but direct contact with your chosen Hotshot Crew’s leadership—by phone, email, and particularly in-person visit—is very beneficial, and often essential.
How many months do Hotshots work?
Schedule. Wildland firefighters can work 14 days straight (called a roll) with 16-hour days and possibly up to three days travel before and after the official 14. Night shifts and longer shifts of 16-24 hours are possible depending on the fire and area you are in, but not super common.
Do you need a college degree to be a hotshot?
Even though some Hot Shots have a college degree, it’s possible to become one with only a high school degree or GED. Choosing the right major is always an important step when researching how to become a Hot Shot.
Do Hotshots work year round?
During the off-season, wildland firefighters may still work full-time as firefighters. However, seasonal wildland firefighters work during the fire season and may collect unemployment, travel, work other jobs, or further their education during the off-season.
How do I train for hotshot crew?
Federal Hotshot Standards
- Sit-ups. 40 in less than 1 minute.
- Push-ups. 25 in less than 1 minute.
- Chin-ups based on bodyweight. Less than 110 lbs — 7 reps. 110–134 lbs — 6 reps. 134–169 lbs — 5 reps.
- Cardio. 1.5-mile run in less. than 10:35. 3-mile hike with a 45-pound pack in less than 45 minutes (walking, not running)
Is it worth becoming a hot shot driver?
Hotshot truckers have the potential to make higher pay rates than they would at a traditional trucking job. A hotshot trucker who properly manages their work schedule and lives in a lucrative location could earn the most money in these types of positions.
What disqualifies you from being a wildland firefighter?
For Federal wildland firefighting jobs, you will need: Fairly clean criminal record (DUIs and felonies won’t immediately disqualify you, but each crew has different standards). Valid driver’s license (even if you have a DUI) Some agencies may require a drug test and/or a background check.
What is a hotshot firefighter?
Hotshot firefighters are officially called an interagency hotshot crew (IHC), known as a special hand crew with 20-22 wildland firefighters in the United States. Their mission is to respond and attend to massive, high-priority wildfires around the country.
What classes do you need to take to become a hotshot firefighter?
Or any Fire Science classes in general. In order to abide by IHC guidelines, 80% of the crew members on a hotshot crew must have previous wildland fire experience. Which makes getting placed on a hotshot crew as a rookie firefighter incredibly tough. So where can you get that prized experience? Your best bet is on Type II hand crew.
What are the different types of jobs for the hotshot crew?
To name a few, some may be certified as medic, a helicopter crewmember, a faller and saw team (consisting of one sawyer and one swamper). Most of the jobs for the hotshot crew are found in the west of the United States.
How many hours a day do hotshot firefighters work?
They work 24 hours a day during fire season for about 6 months a year. Hotshot firefighters work in remote and steep terrains, where they get exposed to dry weather, wind, and other poisonous plants. Their work demands to stay away from home most of the time.