During periods of high fire danger and/or activity, the Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection supplements its staffing levels with the help of the Emergency Firefighters (EFF). EFF are hired on an as-needed, short-term basis, and are expected to be “on-call.” Below is training information, the EFF Sign-up form, and additional EFF opportunities. Not all EFF positions require the same training and not all EFF positions work directly on the fireline, like support positons. Follow the link for frequently asked EFF questions.

Basic Firefighter Training

Basic Firefighter Training certification requires a combination of in-person and/or online coursework, a field training day, and passing an arduous 3-mile pack test while carrying 45 pounds. The training certifies you as a wildland firefighter (FFT2) or support personnel (like dispatch, admin, or logistics). Many support positions don't require the pack test, be sure to ask if the position you’re interested in requires it. Follow the link for more information.

Wildland Fire Academies

Since 2023 the Division of Forestry & Fire Protection has been the sponsor of Wildland Fire Academices ranging from Basic Wildland Firefighter, Intermediate Wildland Firefighter, Initial Attack, and Administrator. These academies take place in the spring and all applicants must be sponsored by an agency and nominations will be submitted by your training officer. Follow the link for more information.

RT-130 Annual Refresher Class

To maintain your red card currency, you'll need to attend an annual refresher class. Courses are held online or in local area offices. Follow the link for more information.

EFF Sign-Up Form

This easy to use online form is a quick way for all EFF to sign up for the season. This information is routed to the area office and helps to get your name on their list of EFF to hire.

Use QR Code to access EFF Sign-Up Form

Support Positions

In addition to firefighters, the Division of Forestry & Fire Protection hires temporary non-firefighter positions to support suppression activities when DOF is faced with a high wildland fire workload. These positions include dispatch, warehouse, and drivers.

Alaska Fire Medic Program

Wildland Fire Medics are qualified EMT’s and Paramedics that receive additional training to work directly on the fireline, often in remote locations with limited resources, to provide critical medical care. The recruitment period is from January – April. Follow the link for more information on how to join and who to talk to.

Job Opportunities

If you’re interested in full time seasonal or year round employment with the Division of Forestry & Fire Protection - follow the link for more information.

Questions?

Training related questions can be directed to regional training officers or local area offices.

• Carrie Hale, State Training Program Coordinator - (907) 987-0319
• Jacqueline Aman, Statewide Training Specialist - (907) 761-6212
• Sunshine Meitzner, Northern Region Training Specialist - (907) 370-3099
• • Delta Junction Area Forestry: (907) 895-4225
  • Fairbanks Area Forestry: (907) 451-2635 or (907) 451-2651
  • Tok Area Forestry: (907) 883-1400
• Kelly Gisolo, Coastal Region Training Specialist - (907) 761-6264
• • Southeast Area Forestry: (907) 766-2120
  • Kenai-Kodiak Area Forestry (Soldotna): (907) 260-4200
  • Mat-Su Area Forestry (Palmer): (907) 761-6340
  • Southwest Area Forestry (McGrath): (907) 524-3010
  • Valdez/Copper River Area (Glennallen): (907) 822-5534