2010  Rookie Smokejumper Application Information

The Alaska Smokejumpers will not be accepting applications for our 2010 Smokejumper Rookie Training Program.  We are currently at a full head count.  If something changes and  we have position openings  the job announcement information will be posted at the web address  listed below.

The Alaska Smokejumpers are the primary initial attack force for the largest area of wildlands in the United States.  The 73 Alaska Smokejumpers are called upon to provide initial and extended attack fire suppression to Alaska, Canada, and the Western United States wherever needed.

There are typically 6 to 10 positions open for rookie candidates in a given year.  Approximately 200 applications are received for those positions.  Selected candidates typically have a number of seasons of wildland firefighting experience, are highly recommended by their previous supervisor, and are in excellent physical condition.  Historically about 40% of the candidates who begin training do not finish.

Selected candidates will be placed in the BLM Smokejumper Rookie Training Program for a month of physical, firefighting, and parachute training.  Training usually begins in the third week of April at Fort Wainwright, AK.  Candidates who successfully complete training will join the Alaska Smokejumpers in the formidable and rewarding effort of fire suppression in Alaska and the lower 48 states.  Rookie Smokejumper positions are temporary GS-5's with work generally ending in September. Long term appointments are typically available in the second or third season as a Smokejumper.

 Minimum qualifications for smokejumper rookie candidates (GS-5) are:

•  12 months of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-04 level duties;

OR

• a 4-year course of study above high school leading to a bachelor’s degree with either:  1)  a major

study in forestry, range management or agriculture; OR  2)  a major in a subject-matter field directly

related to the position; OR

•at least 24 semester hours in any combination of the following courses:  forestry, agriculture, crop or plant science, range management or conservation, wildlife management, watershed management, soil science, natural resources (except marine biology and oceanography), outdoor recreation management, civil or forest engineering, or  wildland fire science. No more than 6 semester hours of mathematics is creditable; OR

•a combination of education and experience that is directly related to the work of the position

 All Applicants are required to apply on line at www.usajobs.opm.gov Information about the Alaska Smokejumpers and BLM Rookie Training can be found at www.alaskasmokejumpers.com

Applicants with specific questions about the program or the application process are encouraged to call (907)356-5540.

Chris Swisher - Lead Rookie Trainer

Alaska Smokejumpers

1513 Gaffney Rd., Ft. Wainwright, Alaska 99703

(907) 356-5549 or chris_swisher@blm.gov