More training and more work time because it was such a great job.
Advice
Be prepared to work hard and make good friends
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Entry Level Wildland Fire Suppression Specialist
June - September 2021 • Forest Grove, OR
What I liked
Loved the work. The Forest Gove office has outstanding leadership and camaraderie, amazing environment to work in!
What I wish was different
Expect to do lots of busy work when not on patrol.
Advice
Come ready to learn, meet new friends, gain new experiences, and grow your professional/leadership skills.
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Wildfire Prevention Specialist
June - September 2020 • Long Creek, OR
What I liked
Being from the city, it was nice to see the countryside for a few months, really getting to appreciate those backroads. While we were in fires, using our tools it was an incredible adrenaline rush, and during my time in Long Creek I met my current girlfriend.
What I wish was different
Almost every interaction I had with my coworkers. They said so many bigoted comments that I held my tongue for for fear of them harming me if they learned I was bisexual.
Advice
Unless you’re willing to put up with small town Eastern Oregon life and people, stay far away from this job.
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Wildland Firefighter
June 2017 - September 2019 • Grants Pass, OR
What I liked
As a wildland firefighter, I had the most miserable fun I have ever had. I always look forward to those 100+ hour weeks on fires.
What I wish was different
Advice
1
One person found this helpful
Wildland Firefighter
June 2016 - September 2018 • Grants Pass, OR
What I liked
Working outside, working hard for good pay, fun experiences and coworkers, and the rush of fighting fire
What I wish was different
Different crew placement and working with some different people
Advice
Do it while you’re young, its really fun
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Wildland Fire Supression Specialist Entry Level
June - September 2018 • Fossil, OR
What I liked
Working outdoors with great people, learning new skills, challenging myself physically and mentally.
What I wish was different
More off district assignments.
Advice
Make sure you are in good physical shape before starting this job, it is very physically demanding and requires a lot of hiking. Also being familiar with walking through the woods and working in the woods is important.
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Fire Fighter
June - September 2018 • Klamath Falls, OR
What I liked
Working in the woods, saving trees.
What I wish was different
More free time
Advice
Make sure you like to work a lot
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Wildland fire suppression specialist
June - September 2018 • Veneta, OR
What I liked
I really liked the hands-on experience and training Oregon Department of Forestry offers while on the job. Fighting fire is a very complex system of managing resources and tasks while staying safe at all times. With all the training I did on the job I was comfortable in any situation I was in.
What I wish was different
All wildland firefighters can relate to these, environmentalist won't understand, but I wish I had more fire experience. In the past years, I was on a type 2 hand crew and was always on large established fires, but after switching to ODF I worked as an engine boss on a type 4 or 6 engine. The work was generally more slow paced then what I was use too but when we were called to do initial attack on fires within Western Lane it was the most exciting experience ever.
Advice
If you're interested in fighting wildfires do not become complacent. Always keep your head up, expect the unexpected, and safety is everyone's top priority.
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Wildland Firefighter
June 2016 • John Day, OR
What I liked
I have been a seasonal wildland firefighter for 3 years now. I work on a Helitack Crew, which means we fight wildland fire through the use of an aircraft. Sometimes it doesn't even feel like a job. I get to fly in a helicopter, travel throughout the state, and continue to advance my knowledge in fire suppression. The work is down and dirty, but it is so worth it once the fire is contained and controlled.
What I wish was different
More opportunities to travel around the state!
Advice
This job is a great opportunity for college students because not only does it allow you the opportunity to further your education, but the connections you make with your coworkers are one of a kind. Some days you are completely exhausted and feel like you want to quit, but I promise you that someone will always be right behind you saying "You got this".
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Visitor Services and Photography
June 2018 • Tillamook, OR
What I liked
Gaining experience in forestry and spending time somewhere I enjoy!
What I wish was different
Being able to be there more often or trying different positions
Advice
Be open to anything and explore the surrounding areas
