We employ field based, seasonal firefighters to assist with planned burning and the prevention and suppression of bushfires in parks and forests. It's a job where no two days are the same.

Applications for the 2016-17 season have closed.

Applications for the 2017-18 season will open again later this year. Check back for updates.

Are you ready?

Training will be provided and positions are open to men and women who:

  • Have a high level of fitness
  • Are a team player
  • Hold a current manual drivers licence

Forest Fire Management crews contribute to reducing the risk of fire, containing outbreaks and managing environmental impacts in Victoria's parks, forests and other public land.

DELWP Seasonal Project Firefighters

Seasonal project firefighters complement DELWP's and Parks Victoria's permanent firefighting staff and are responsible for bushfire suppression and prevention activities including planned burning. Many project firefighters return from previous years, bringing with them valuable skills and experience. All firefighters are trained comprehensively before being involved in fire operations.

Positions are available each year (generally between November and April) and include:

  • firefighter (includes designated Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people positions)
  • rappel and hover exit crews (specialist firefighting roles performed in remote locations)
  • fire support officers (limited positions)

Recruitment process

The statewide recruitment process goes through several stages after applications close.

  • Interviews are conducted throughout September and October, with timing dependent on local fire conditions.
  • Pre-employment checks occur during October and November.
  • Most project firefighters start work by late November.

You can read more about the recruitment and the roles in our brochure:

Project Firefighters  (PDF, 818.0 KB)

Overseas applicants

Overseas applicants require an appropriate Australian work visa. DELWP does not sponsor applicants.

Work visa information can be found on the Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection website.

For more information contact DELWP Customer Service.

External plant operators

Our External Plant Web Portal for registration of plant and operators for use in fire and general civil works in Victoria can be accessed below.

External Plant Portal

Get in touch

For all DELWP related enquiries, call 136 186.

You can also visit your local DELWP office or Parks Victoria office.