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Wildland Firefighting

Ignite Your Career!

Watch CCC’s Wildland Firefighting Playlist to spark your interest.

Train with us

Positions
Approximately 450
Locations
15 Centers
Stipend
$2,814 per month

Overview

The California Conservation Corps partners with CAL FIRE and Bureau of Land Management to operate wildland firefighting hand crews. Corpsmembers enrolled in this program remove hazardous fire fuels, cut fire line, lay hose, participate in controlled burns, and mop up wildland fires. Crews operate year-round; they respond to local calls and can be dispatched statewide. Corpsmembers also complete fuel reduction projects when not on fires.

Training is consistent with state and federal partner requirements, preparing young adults for future careers in the fire service. Corpsmembers earn wildland firefighting certifications, including, but not limited to: IS-100, IS-700, S-110, S-130, L-180, and S-190. Corpsmembers must pass physical fitness requirements to join a CCC fire crew.

Why We Work

Since time immemorial, fire has shaped the landscapes of California; many native species rely on fire to thrive! However, due to a century of fire suppression coupled with the impacts of climate change, the risk of catastrophic wildfire is growing. According to California’s Fourth Climate Change Assessment, if greenhouse gas emissions continue to rise, the average area burned statewide could increase by 77% by 2100. CCC trains young adults to steward the land, bringing good fire back while keeping catastrophic wildfires at bay.

Gear UP

Each day, Corpsmembers gear up to make the world a better place. Check out what tools they use and picture what life is like training for careers in the fire service!

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Know Before You Go

Schedule

Fire crews typically work four 10-hour shifts in the off-season. If dispatched, they may switch to 24-hr shifts.

Emergencies

Corpsmembers must be willing to respond to emergencies and be dispatched for lengthy periods of time.

Eligibility

Young adults 18-25 and military veterans up to age 29 can join. Individuals must live in California.

Pass the Pack Test

To join a CCC fire crew, Corpsmembers must pass a “pack test”: covering three miles in 45 minutes while carrying a 45 pound pack. Start training and track your progress!

Track Your Fitness

Study Safety Information

Safety is a priority! Corpsmembers must pass a written exam and memorize 10 Standard Firefighting Orders and 18 Watch Out Situations in order to join a CCC fire crew.

Start Learning Today

Find Your Path

Work with CCC Career Navigators to chart out your path to success! CCC helps Corpsmembers leverage their skills and training to launch meaningful careers. Don’t believe us?! Hear from CCC alumni.
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Explore our locations

CCC offers wildland firefighting training at 15 locations across California.

Residential

  • Camarillo Center
  • Delta Center
  • Fortuna Center
  • Los Padres Center
  • Los Pinos Center
  • Magalia Center
  • Mendocino Center
  • Placer Center
  • Tahoe Center

Non-Residential

  • Fresno Center
  • Inland Empire Center
  • Monterey Bay Center
  • Pomona Center
  • Redding Center
  • San Diego Center

Delta Center

7000 South Newcastle Road
Stockton, CA 95215
Get Directions

Ask Us Anything

We know you have questions about wildland firefighting. Here are some of the common one’s we get. Have more questions? Give us a call!  

Call A Recruiter

1-800-952-5627

Do I need prior experience to join?

No prior work experience is required to join a CCC wildland firefighting crew, we will help you get trained and certified so you can launch a successful career in the fire service.

In terms of education, you do not need a diploma or degree to join. We have Corpsmembers who have college degrees, some who’ve attended college for some or no time, and some who need their high school diploma. Please note, if you have not obtained your high school diploma, while enrolled in the CCC you must work to earn one through our partnered charter schools.

What are the grooming standards for CCC fire crews?

CCC follow’s CAL FIRE grooming standards which outline requirements for hair and jewelry. These are in place to maintain safety on the fire line. Read CCC’s Wildland Firefighting Grooming Standards.

What happens if I fail one of the required tests?

Corpsmembers who do not pass the pack test or written exam can transfer to another residential CCC center or to a non-fire crew. Individuals may retake the wildland firefighting tests at a later date.
I have a disability. Can I still join?
CCC can work with individuals to offer reasonable accommodations. If you have a disability that may impact your ability to take written exams or participate in program activities, please talk with your recruiter.

REad Fire NEws

May 21st, 2024

Corpsmembers Help Build a Brand New State Park

Building the newest proposed State Park requires a lot of hard work and precision. For our CCC Inland Empire and Delta trails crews, the word that comes to mind is meticulous.