Parattack wildfire fighters
Last updated on December 9, 2024On this page
Becoming a BC Wildfire Service Parattack wildfire fighter
The BC Wildfire Service employs approximately 70 Parattack crew members, sometimes called "Smokejumpers," each year. The BC Wildfire Service Parattack program has two work units, based in Fort St. John and Mackenzie.
We are proud to have a diverse team and are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all.
Program requirements
Eligibility requirements
To qualify for a BC Wildfire Service Parattack crew member position, an individual must meet the following standards and qualifications:
- Eligible to work in Canada
- Valid first aid certificate recognized in the B.C. workplace
- Valid Canadian driver’s license
- At least one season of experience working as a wildfire fighter with a government agency
Before you apply, read through the above links to ensure you meet the eligibility requirements.
Preferred qualifications
Candidates must identify on their resume and application how they meet the preferred qualifications. Meeting all the preferred qualifications is not required, but applicants should highlight how they meet as many qualifications as they can.
In addition to the preferred qualifications outlined for the BC Wildfire Service crew member application, the Parattack program also includes the following preferred qualifications:
- Occupational First Aid Level 3 certificate (or higher)
- Valid Wildfire Danger Tree Assessor ticket
- Valid Basic Chainsaw Operator ticket obtained through the BC Wildfire Service, Canadian Association of Geophysical Contractors (CAGC) or BC Forest Safety Council (BCFSC)
- Two or more seasons of experience working as a wildfire fighter with a government agency
- Educational background in the resource sector
- Military experience
2025 Application process
Applications to become a Parattack crew member with the BC Wildfire Service close on Jan. 13, 2025.
To apply, email your cover letter and resume to BCWS.PGFCParattackRecruiting@gov.bc.ca. Be sure to include examples in your application that identify how you meet all eligibility requirements and any applicable preferred qualifications.
We recommend that you also apply for the wildfire fighter crew member position, but this is not mandatory. On the wildfire fighter application, be sure to select "yes" to the question asking if you are also applying the to Parattack program.
Interview process
Applicants who successfully pass the screening phase will be invited to an interview. The Parattack program will be holding virtual interviews between Jan. 20 and 24, 2025.
Successful applicants will be placed on an eligibility list. Positions will be offered from the eligibility list as vacancies arise, beginning as early as Feb. 7, 2025.
WFX-Fit Test
Candidates must meet the pre-employment fitness standard, the WFX-Fit test. Unsuccessful candidates will not be allowed to continue. Please review the linked WFX-Fit test overview to ensure your understanding of the test, requirements and programs available.
Application assistance
If you have any questions about the application process, please email: BCWS.PGFCParattackRecruiting@gov.bc.ca.
Due to the large volume of applications, the recruitment team is unable to provide individual application feedback or advise on which examples a candidate should use to demonstrate preferred qualifications.
Indigenous Applicant Advisory Service
The Indigenous Applicant Advisory Service is a service available to Indigenous applicants (First Nations [status or non-status], Métis or Inuit) seeking to work in the BC Public Service.
Indigenous applicants interested in BC Public Service positions, including temporary assignments, auxiliary appointments, permanent part-time, permanent full-time and expression of interest, can receive high-level advice and guidance on the hiring system and process.
Learn more about the Indigenous Applicant Advisory Service.
Contact information
BCWS.PGFCParattackRecruiting@gov.bc.ca