The detail is budgeted to begin in late April each year and terminate in November (or at the end of fire season, depending on each year's fire severity level).

The training program is targeted specifically for those employees who have been identified as having the potential for line and staff management positions, and who need a background in fire and fuels management. Because this is an intensive development program, it is an excellent opportunity to obtain accelerated training and experience.

Being an Interagency Hotshot Crew member means traveling nationwide and working under adverse conditions and hazardous situations. It is not unusual to be away from NCSC on fires for three weeks at a time. A person should give serious consideration to this and the overall duration of the detail before applying.

Currently, applicants must have a career or career-conditional appointment, minimum Red Card qualification of "Firefighter (FFT2)," and have one season of fire experience or the equivalent. Apprentice candidates are encouraged to apply, but must be a graduate of the Basic Academy by the start date of the program. Candidates will be accepted from any series and grade. Program participants are considered nationwide from the U.S. Forest Service and other federal wildland fire agencies.

Physical requirements include satisfactory completion of the Pack Test, which consists of walking three miles on flat ground with 45 pounds in 45 minutes. If selected, candidates must meet this requirement on day one or be returned to their home units. Candidates must be able to perform fireline duties at the arduous level. (Ref. F.S. Handbook 6100-9.12)

To qualify, applicants must meet ALL of the following criteria:

• Applicants must have career/career-conditional status with the USDA Forest Service or other federal resource protection agency.
  
• A minimum Red Card qualification of "Firefighter" (FFT2)
  
• Pass the Pack Test
  
• Hold a valid First Aid and CPR card
  
• Successful completion of:
  
  
  1. I-200 Basic ICS
  2. S-211 Portable Pumps & Water Use
  3. S-212 Wildfire Powersaws

If you meet all of the above criteria and wish to receive the most current copy of the vacancy announcement, please send an e-mail to: Robert Holt with all of the following information:

1. Agency Electronic Mailing Address
2. Winter Mailing Address
3. Office Phone Number
4. Home Phone Number
5. Working Title / Series and Grade
6. Forest / District or Unit