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Wildland Firefighters

A Unique Profession

Being a wildland firefighter with SOPFEU is more than just a job—it’s an extraordinary way of life. It’s a diverse and exciting career opportunity, close to nature and deep in the forest. You’ll have the chance to travel, sometimes by helicopter or all-terrain vehicle, to reach your assigned location and fight fires alongside your teammates.

Spotlight on Our Wildland Firefighters

Hiring Process

The hiring period for wildland firefighter positions typically runs from February to June, following the recall of candidates from previous years.

The next hiring process will begin in November 2025.

Requirements:

  • Hold a DEP, DEC, or BAC in one of the following fields: forestry, wildlife, land management, fire safety, ecology, biology, environment, geography, outdoor recreation, adventure tourism, or any related discipline.

OR

  • Have a minimum of 3 years of work experience in a forestry environment.

  • Are you a college or university student in a relevant field? Your application is also welcome.

Conditions

  • Minimum work hours: 40 hours per week, varying based on fire activity.

  • Employment start and end dates vary by base (approximately early May to late September).

WFX-FIT Physical Test

Test Overview

The test consists of four stages, all of which must be completed in 17 minutes and 15 seconds or less to qualify for a wildland firefighter position with SOPFEU. Throughout the test, participants wear a 9-pound belt to simulate the suppression equipment used during fire operations.

Selection Process:

  • 1

    Carry a medium-sized portable pump on your back for 160 m (524.9 ft), crossing a 1.22 m (4 ft) ramp with a 35-degree incline every 20 m (65.6 ft).

  • 2

    Carry a medium-sized pump by hand for 80 m (262.4 ft) without crossing the ramp.

  • 3

    Carry a backpack containing four lengths of hose for 1 km (3,281 ft), crossing a ramp every 20 m (65.6 ft).

  • 4

    Drag a weighted sled for 80 m (262.4 ft) to simulate moving a water-filled hose.

Recommendations:

  • Wear athletic shoes and workout clothing.

  • Avoid smoking, eating, and consuming alcohol or caffeinated drinks two hours before the test.

  • Avoid intense training within 24 hours prior.

Important:

  • Blood pressure must be below 160/90 mmHg before testing.

  • Each participant must sign a consent form.

  • Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions

It is a seasonal job, mainly from April to September. Firefighters are unionized, and collective agreements ensure they are recalled yearly. First-year firefighters typically work an average of 16 weeks. From the second year onward, they are guaranteed a minimum of 17 to 18 weeks of work, depending on their location. Out-of-province missions may extend the season.

By late summer, the fire season ends, allowing for personal projects or other work in the fall and winter.

It is a full-time job. Firefighters work a minimum of 40 hours per week, regardless of fire activity.

Shifts: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Schedule: 10 consecutive workdays followed by 4 days off

Overtime is available during active fire events, significantly increasing earnings.

Including overtime and seniority, SOPFEU wildland firefighters earn between $32,000 and $61,000 in their third season.

In the first year, the 2025 hourly wage is set at $26.37/hour by the collective agreement.

No specific college or university program exists for wildland firefighting. Typically, hired candidates have studied forestry, wildlife, land management, fire safety, ecology, biology, environmental science, geography, outdoor recreation, or adventure tourism.

Accepted credentials include a DEP, DEC, or BAC. Higher education facilitates career advancement.

Once hired, SOPFEU provides training, including the National Firefighter Program in the first season, with additional training each year to take on more responsibilities.

Yes. A minimum of three years of relevant forestry work experience can compensate for a lack of formal education. Previous experience as an auxiliary firefighter with SOPFEU is an asset.

Yes, students in relevant fields can apply. Indicate your student status when applying and ensure your availability aligns with the fire season.

The fire season starts as early as April in southern regions, making northern bases more accessible for students.

Students must be available for the selection process (interview, medical test, physical test) before the season starts and must attend firefighter training in May.

Yes, if your internship is recognized by your academic institution. Apply as you would for a firefighter position and specify that your application is for an internship.

Applicants can list preferred locations in order of priority to maximize hiring chances.

SOPFEU bases include: Baie-Comeau, Bonaventure, Havre-Saint-Pierre, Rimouski, Sept-Îles, Roberval, Duchesnay, La Tuque, Chibougamau, Maniwaki, Mont-Tremblant, Val-d’Or, Matagami, and Lebel-sur-Quévillon.

Final base assignments depend on staffing needs, confirmed in February.

No. You must arrange accommodations near your assigned base. Options include renting rooms or sharing housing with other firefighters.

If SOPFEU deploys you for an operation, accommodations are provided for the duration of the assignment.

Yes. Firefighters must drive SOPFEU vehicles, but no special licence class is required. Some travel is by ATV, and frequent helicopter transport is involved. If you experience motion sickness, this job may not be for you.

SOPFEU offers extensive training and career growth opportunities, including supervisory roles such as protection officer, base manager, operations chief, or director. Other roles include logistics, training, or aerial fire monitoring.

Yes, but conditions apply. You must have a valid Canadian work permit and, if educated outside Canada, submit an official credential assessment from the Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration. SOPFEU does not assist with work permits or credential recognition.

Task-related training is encouraged during work hours. Some bases provide fitness facilities, such as an obstacle course at Baie-Comeau. SOPFEU reimburses part of monthly gym membership fees.

Tasks include maintaining equipment, facilities, and engaging in fire prevention and public awareness activities. Periods of standby are common, especially when deployed preemptively.

Out-of-province missions are voluntary but typically limited to Type 1 firefighters, requiring an annual fitness test, completion of a probation period, and English proficiency.

Une force en appui

Auxiliary Firefighters

If you do not meet the hiring criteria, you may apply as an auxiliary wildland firefighter through accredited third-party companies. Auxiliary firefighters work on an as-needed basis, particularly during peak fire seasons. The best time to apply is between mid-January and early April.