30 Wildland Firefighter Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Wildland Firefighter interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. Why are you leaving your current role?
How to Answer
Share what you're looking forward to in this new role as a wildland firefighter. If you were working in another field prior to public safety, talk about how you became interested in this new job. Share how you have been working towards it and how you believe you will excel in the field.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am ready to take my career to the next level. I have been working for the juvenile justice department for three years but I always wanted to be a firefighter. I have been training for months and volunteering at the local fire department. I know that I'm ready to take on the responsibilities and ready to make the sacrifices to do so."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
2. Tell me about a time when you faced an emergency situation.
How to Answer
If you have worked as a safety or healthcare professional in the past, you have experienced a wide variety of emergencies. The interviewer wants to hear that you know how to stay calm in the face of an emergency and follow procedures. You want to show them you have the common sense and the experience to know how to deal with major and minor emergencies. You will need to act quickly, making split-second decisions. Give an example that demonstrates your ability to deal with the stress of an emergency and successfully navigate the situation.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"When I was working for the local fire department, I arrived on the scene of a brutal car accident. I had to carefully work with the paramedics to remove a woman from the car who had suffered a concussion and major lacerations to her face. I stayed calm and focused my attention on the safety of the injured individuals. We were able to provide support to the paramedics and successfully transport the woman to the hospital."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
3. What is the advantage of working in teams?
How to Answer
Share what you enjoy about your team. Give an example from your current or past crew that shows you understand the benefits of working in a collaborative environment. If you have never worked as a team, give an example of playing team sports or how your family divides chores in a team effort.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"Working on a team gives you the motivation when you're feeling discouraged, the strength to move forward when faced with overwhelming obstacles and the support you need to do the best you can with what you have. I enjoy working on my team because we are like a family. We may have our disagreements from time to time, but we have learned how to communicate and collaborate to do our jobs effectively and efficiently. At the end of the day, we truly enjoy each other's company and that makes it such a great environment to work in."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
4. How have you made an impact on your team in the past?
How to Answer
Whether you are the strongest firefighter on your team or the most enthusiastic, your contribution will make a huge difference. Your ability to motivate others and communicate effectively will help keep everyone going on those long, arduous days in the field. Give an example that demonstrates some of your top qualities.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"When I worked as a teacher, I was always encouraging the other members of my team. We developed a strong bond by committing to support each other through the challenges of dealing with difficult parents, students, and managing a heavy workload. I started a fitness group for my coworkers and we would spend 30-45 minutes after work every day doing exercises in the park. We were able to debrief from the day, and many of them lost weight and had a better attitude going home."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
5. What is an area you can improve on?
How to Answer
To successfully answer this question, you will need to be strategic. First, think of an area where you can improve. For example, maybe you could do a better job of taking the initiative to solve problems before becoming an issue. Even though it may feel vulnerable to share a weakness, your self-awareness is a strength. Your insight that you need to grow in this area shows the interviewer that you know you have room for improvement and the desire to grow.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"It can be easy to burn yourself out when you aren't pacing yourself on the job. I have been working on building up my stamina so that I can work for longer hours at a time. I know that I'm strong, and I get stronger every day that I'm out in the field. It has been helpful to learn to slow down and take breaks from time to time to make sure that I can get through three weeks clearing trees and putting out fires."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
6. Why do you think it is important to educate the public about fire safety?
How to Answer
Stop. Drop. Roll. When you were in grade school, that may have been the extent of what you learned about fire safety. Fire prevention is a whole other story. Many wildfires could be prevented if people were educated about how easily a cigarette butt could cause an entire forest to catch fire. Explain why you think it's important to educate the public. Share any experience you have with speaking at schools or neighborhood programs to teach them about fire safety and prevention.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I think it is important to educate the public about fire safety for many reasons. First, teaching the public about smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, what to do if they or their house catches on fire, and having an escape plan could save someone's life. I think it is also important to teach them about fire prevention. Why kids should not play with matches, putting out campfires before leaving, and not throwing lit cigarettes onto the ground are all important things to learn."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
7. How does your family feel about your work schedule?
How to Answer
For a typical firefighter, working 24- to 48-hour shifts can be expected for your typical work schedule. For wildland firefighters, they are often camping out in the wilderness for two to three weeks at a time, depending on the assignment. The interviewer wants to know that you have the support of your family. Considering the emotional stress of such a physically demanding job, having support from friends and family is important. Share that your family is happy that you get to pursue your passion and that they support you wholeheartedly.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"My family is completely supportive of my work schedule. They understand the importance of my career and are proud of me for pursuing firefighting. We have talked about the fact that I will miss birthdays and holidays, and have decided as a family that we will postpone celebrating until I can be with them. They understand that I may not see them for weeks at a time, but that I will call if I can."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
8. What types of water pumps have you trained with or used in previous firefighting jobs?
How to Answer
The interviewer is most interested in hearing about your experience handling water pumps, whether it's an Enduraplus Firefighting Skid Sprayer or a Northstar High-Pressure Water Pump. Depending on the size of the fire and the size of your team, you may need a different water pump. If you are familiar with particular brands or models, talk about those specific tools. Give the interviewer some context about the situation by sharing an example demonstrating your experience with battling fires and using this equipment.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"The only water pumps I have experience with are during my wildland firefighting training. I was trained using a Hale two-stage pump and a Hale floating pump for drafting. "
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
9. Why is it important to understand your safety zones and escape routes before starting your day?
How to Answer
The last thing you want to do is get yourself trapped, endangering your life and the lives of your team. Explain your strategy before entering a dangerous situation. Talk about how you secure the area to make sure innocent bystanders are not affected. Your job as a safety professional is to be prepared at all times. Show the interviewer that you can be relied upon to pack the necessary equipment and have a plan to prevent injury and an unnecessary emergency.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"As a firefighter, I need to provide for my safety first. If I get injured, it puts more stress on my crew and can endanger the public. It is essential to understand safety zones and escape routes to protect the lives of myself, my crew, and the public. When a fire suddenly changes behavior, we need to know how to get ourselves, citizens, and animals to safety."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
10. How do you stay in peak physical condition?
How to Answer
For firefighters who are currently working or volunteering at a local department, the routine procedures on their shifts can be sufficient to keep them in great shape. Most firefighters work out regularly to maintain their strength and flexibility. Share your workout routine and what you do daily to stay healthy.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I try to work out daily, depending on my schedule. I like doing Crossfit because the exercises are similar to what firefighters do on the job. I also run 5 miles three times per week to keep up my cardio and kayak or hike with my family on my days off. I also eat a balanced diet and drink one gallon of water or more daily."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
11. How do you handle conflict with a member of your team?
How to Answer
Dealing with the tension between coworkers can be draining, especially if you work in a high-stress work environment. When you're asked a question about dealing with conflict or overcoming a challenge, think of an example first. Having a concrete situation to draw from will help you think through the steps you take to deal with conflict. Use an example that demonstrates your care and compassion when a conflict arises.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"One of my coworkers had a bad attitude and kept snapping at people on the team one day. It's important for us to work together at all times, even if one of us is having a bad day. I pulled him aside and asked what was going on. I listened and comforted him and then gave him a pep talk. I told him we needed him on the team and that he was doing a great job. The rest of the day went much more smoothly."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
12. How would you handle an irate citizen?
How to Answer
In your line of work, you may interact with individuals living in the areas that are affected by potential fire damage. Often, people are forced from their homes when a wildfire spreads out of control. It can be extremely emotional and devastating to watch your land go up in flames. Explain to the interviewer how you would help an angry or upset citizen in one of these challenging situations. You might need to focus on getting them to safety first and then provide emotional support once they are protected.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I would handle an irate citizen by remaining calm and listening to what they had to say. If they were irate in the middle of an emergency, I would first insist that we get to a safe place and I would talk with them after. If I were unable to appease them, I would refer them to my supervisor."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
13. Why do you want to work for our organization?
How to Answer
Wildland firefighters typically work seasonally during the peak time of potential fire outbreaks. You may be interviewing for the U.S. National Park Service or the U.S. Forest Service. Some local fire departments even have a wildfire unit. You want to show them that you're serious enough about the job to do your research. Take some time to learn more about their mission, values, and their culture. Find out what sets them apart from all of the other fire departments.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I want to work for your organization because you have smokejumpers which I aspire to be. I like that you offer training and encourage growth within your organization and that your mission is to preserve the natural resources for future generations."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
14. How have you been working to improve yourself over the past month?
How to Answer
The interviewer knows that you are disciplined through your physical abilities and your determination to get to this point in the interview. Share something that has helped you improve in a way that could be related to the job. Improving your concentration, attitude, and your communication skills are all helpful for the job.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have been practicing meditation in the mornings before I grab my tools and hit the road. I have found that getting myself in the right mentality, thinking positively and training my brain to focus on the present moment has really helped me to persevere and stay on guard when I'm at work."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
15. What is your greatest strength? How does it help you as a firefighter?
How to Answer
Many strengths will make you an excellent firefighter. Your communication skills, work ethic, strength, and ability to make quick decisions are essential qualities. Talk about what you bring to the table and how it will enhance the team you work with.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am flexible and adaptable to working in intense conditions with different types of personalities. I can move quickly and slow down and focus when I need to. I can also switch gears between tasks, which makes me an asset to any team."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
16. How do you handle stress and pressure?
How to Answer
The job of a wildland firefighter can be extremely stressful. Share how you manage stress on the job and in your downtime. I Explain any techniques that have helped you while you're at work. Some have found it helpful to focus on one thing at a time, not letting themselves get too overwhelmed with the big picture, especially when facing a fire that has gotten out of control. Share what works for you.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"The way I manage stress and the pressures of the job are to prioritize what needs to be done first. I let my training and experience guide me on what needs to be done. The way I manage stress on my days off is to be outdoors doing some type of physical activity. I feel that being in nature is a great stress reliever."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
17. Tell us about yourself.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to get to know you to make sure you're a good fit for the position. You can talk about your educational background and how it prepared you for the job. Try to keep this answer brief, but give the interviewer reason to know more about you. The way you talk about yourself is also important. Be enthusiastic and composed. Show that you are prepared.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I grew up in a firefighter family and knew this was always my calling. My father retired as a fire captain and my grandfather was fire chief for our local department. I received my EMT certification two years ago, and just completed my associate's degree in fire science. I thought I wanted to follow the route my father and grandfather took, but I am more interested in fighting wildland fires. I work out every day to keep myself fit for the job and do a combination of Crossfit and mountain biking. Currently, I am working construction as a framer until I get hired as a wildland firefighter."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
18. Why do you want to work in this industry?
How to Answer
Do your research. Share what you have learned about wildland firefighting and the fire safety industry. Your passion goes a long way, but your knowledge and expertise in the field will give you more credibility. The interviewer wants to hear that you understand how physically and emotionally demanding the job can be. They want to hear that you are a team player and enjoy working outdoors. If you have been working in the industry, talk about what you have learned and what you enjoy so far.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am passionate about working in this industry because I want a career where I can work outdoors in nature while protecting life and property. I enjoy physically and mentally demanding work and the fire industry brings all of those elements to the table."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
19. Tell me about your leadership abilities.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to hear that you have experience leading a team. This doesn't necessarily mean you were a manager or that you were a captain. Good leaders have the ability to lead by example through their words and their actions. Strong leaders have exceptional interpersonal skills and can communicate effectively with all personalities in even the most stressful situations. If you have experience leading a team, share what your team accomplished and how your qualities helped enhance the team.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I believe I am a very capable leader and have demonstrated my leadership skills working as a counselor for Outward Bound. I learned how to improve the lives of troubled teens through my words and actions. I believe a great leader leads by example and has the communication skills to effectively communicate with all types of personalities."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
20. Where do you see yourself in five years?
How to Answer
Talk about where you see your current passion leading you. It's important to think about how this job will fit into your future goals. Setting goals shows your ambition and determination. This company wants to know that you think about the future and are actively working towards your goals. Better yet, they want to know how working for them will help you accomplish your goals.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I'm interested in working in wildland fire management. Even though I love working in the field, I am also fascinated by ecosystem restoration and educating others on community preparedness. In five years I see myself as a restoration expert and educator."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
21. Give an example that demonstrates your attention to detail.
How to Answer
Your attention to detail could mean the difference between life or death. Safety precautions and calculating and gathering every item you will need before you head out to work on the land or battle a large fire is important. Show the interviewer that you know what it takes to be prepared and how you pay close attention to detail.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"When I am preparing to go out in the field, I double-check to make sure we have oil, hoses, and all the rest of the tools we will need for our trip. I prepared a spreadsheet that I use to make sure nothing gets left behind. Sometimes we spend three weeks in the field, so we must have everything we will need, including food rations and water."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
22. What makes you passionate about fighting fires?
How to Answer
Maybe you enjoy the manual labor of sweating in the heat and digging trenches to prevent the spread of fire. Perhaps you love the camaraderie of your team, enjoying the weeks spent camping and pouring yourselves into your work. Share what makes you passionate about your job.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"Getting to participate in preserving thousands of acres of forest and preventing people from danger is extremely rewarding. I am passionate about helping others and working as a team to get the job done."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
23. Tell me about your firefighting training.
How to Answer
The interviewer most likely knows what training and certifications you have, but this is your time to tell them the steps you have taken to become a firefighter. Describe any additional courses you have taken and what certifications you have received. Be sure to tell them if you have any volunteer or paid firefighting experience.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have my associate's degree in fire science and have completed the basic wildland fire training course and have received my red card. I have a current CPR and First Aid card and have volunteered for the past year at my local volunteer fire department. We have weekly drills covering medical emergencies, vehicle extrication, structure fires, and wildland fires. In the past year, I have worked on five residential structure fires, three vehicle fires, one commercial structure fire, and two wildland fires."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
24. What do you feel is the most important quality a wildland firefighter should possess?
How to Answer
There are many traits that make a wildland firefighter effective at their job. Communication, team skills, physical and emotional strengths, and work ethic are a few. There are many qualities that are essential for your job. Share the characteristics you have found the most important in your experience and explain why.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I believe integrity is one of the most important qualities. As a firefighter, I have a reputation to maintain in order for my team and the public to trust me to do my job. If I show that I'm not reliable or cannot handle the physical conditions, I'm not pulling my weight. This could be devasting to the lives of my teammates as well as anyone else who could be in danger. I take my responsibility seriously and can be depended upon to be consistent and trustworthy."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
25. What makes you the most qualified person for this position?
How to Answer
Now is the time to sell yourself. Before your interview, take some time to review your resume and reflect on your past experiences that have prepared you to get to this point in your career. Any wilderness, safety training, or completion of fire science courses will score you extra points. If you have experience as a volunteer firefighter, talk about some of the skills you acquired.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have been training all winter by backpacking through the wilderness and lifting weights. I have also completed wilderness safety training and previously worked as a volunteer firefighter. I am well-versed in fire safety and prevention and I know I'll make a great addition to your team."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
26. What excites you about working as a wildland firefighter?
How to Answer
Share your passion for rescuing acres of land, wildlife, and people's homes from the clutches of fire. Working as a firefighter requires passion and determination. You are faced with obstacles every day that will test your strength and your stamina. If you have never worked as a firefighter, share what you are looking forward to.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"What excites me about working as a wildland firefighter is the unpredictability every shift brings. One hour I might be fighting a small fire on the side of a freeway, and the next hour I could be sent off with my crew to another state to provide mutual aid for a forest fire. I love that I am able to help protect and preserve the forests and community members homes."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
27. Have you ever been overloaded with work?
How to Answer
For most people, the answer is an enthusiastic YES. It can be difficult to handle stressful situations when you are faced with grueling days of manual labor. Most wildland firefighters work during the summer months, which means you're dealing with the heat too. You may be expected to make sacrifices, setting aside time with your family to be on the ground hacking away at dead trees. Explain to the interviewer that you are used to handling a heavy workload and prepared to face a busy summer.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"Yes, I worked as an EMT for six years before deciding to become a wildland firefighter. I worked at one of the busiest stations in the city, often running 24 to 26 calls in a 24-hour shift. I know what it is like to be overloaded with work. I would just take one call at a time and not let the call volume overwhelm me."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
28. What motivates you as a wildland firefighter?
How to Answer
Share what keeps you going, even in the toughest situations. The interviewer wants to hear that you are passionate about what you do. Wildland firefighters work long hours, often for weeks or months away from their families. Explain that even with the long hours, you are motivated to work in this field.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am motivated by my teammates. I love collaborating with so many strong and skilled individuals and see results at the end of the day. We all work really hard and encourage each other to stay focused, even when we face an overwhelming situation, or have spent weeks away from our families."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
29. What do you enjoy most about your job?
How to Answer
You may be operating a chainsaw for hours on end or digging a line in over hundred-degree weather. Working as a wildland firefighter is hard work. At the end of the day, think about what keeps you fighting fires every summer, regardless of the challenges.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"I enjoy the community of my team and the satisfaction of preserving the land. Even after 15 days of manual labor in the sun, I am so happy with the work I've done."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
30. Describe a difficult project and how you overcame it?
How to Answer
The physical labor of prevention and suppression can be grueling. Whether you used to be a teacher or a carpenter, share an example from your previous work experience that demonstrates your ability to deal with obstacles and challenges on the job. Even if you worked in a different field prior to firefighting, share an experience that shows off your mental or physical strength.
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021
Answer Example
"When I worked as a logger we spent days chopping down trees and it was physically exhausting. Even though it could be monotonous work at times, I learned about perseverance and teamwork. My team and I got along great and even had fun while we worked."
Written by Elisabeth Walter on April 26th, 2021