Employment with the BC Wildfire Service
Last updated on May 22, 2024In addition to a team of permanent staff which includes safety and training personnel, wildfire and fuel management experts, support and administrative staff, the BC Wildfire Service employs more than 1,600 seasonal personnel each year.
Become a firefighter
The BC Wildfire Service employs approximately 1,000 wildfire fighters each year. In order to become a wildfire fighter with the BC Wildfire Service applicants must show motivation, have a relevant skill set, complete fitness tests and attend the BC Wildfire Service New Recruit Boot Camp.
Become a dispatcher
Dispatchers are employed at each of the province’s six fire centres, providing the communication link between the wildfire coordination centres to aircraft and personnel in the field and they implement pre-approved fire control decisions. Dispatchers must be able to stay calm and focused in emergency situations, know how to multitask effectively, have good written and verbal communication skills, be a team player, and be willing to work extended periods with minimal time off during the summer.
Other seasonal positions
It's not just firefighters and dispatchers that work to keep B.C. safe from wildfires. The BC Wildfire Service hires seasonal workers to support all functional areas and in several locations throughout B.C.
Permanent positions
Job postings for permanent positions can be found on the BC Government careers website.
Visit the BC Government careers website
Auxiliary Employee Transition Program (AETP)
The purpose of the (AETP) is to provide developmental work opportunities to targeted auxiliary staff from 4 months to up to a maximum 6 month term in positions outside of their regular business area in order to assist them in furthering their skills, competencies and experience.