How do you get on a hotshot crew?
The application process for Federal Hotshot employment typically goes through USAJOBS.com, but direct contact with your chosen Hotshot Crew’s leadership—by phone, email, and particularly in-person visit—is very beneficial, and often essential.
Where are hotshot crews located?
The Bureau of Land Management has 11 interagency hotshot crews stationed in Alaska, California, Colorado, Idaho, Mississippi, Nevada, Oregon, and Utah. A hotshot crew consists of 20 specially-trained firefighters. They provide an organized, mobile, and skilled workforce for all phases of wildland fire management.
What is the difference between a Type 1 and Type 2 hotshot crew?
A hotshot crew will also have at least two Senior or Lead Firefighters who are certified at the FFT1 level. Crew Experience: 80% of the crew members on a hotshot crew have at least one year of experience. While the requirement for a Type 2 IA crew is only 60%.

What is a Type 2 hotshot crew?
The Firefighter Type 2 serves on a hand crew, engine crew, or helitack crew, performing fire suppression and fuels management duties in the most adverse climate, fuel, and terrain conditions.
How much do hotshots make in a season?
As “forest fire first responders,” they also work the most hours. Hotshot crew firefighters can make $40,000 in less than six months (with overtime and hazard pay).

How long does it take to become a hotshot?
Selected applicants learn on the job by attending a two-month-long, 3,000-hour residential firefighting academy. They are paid for their time, and all training costs are covered by the agency.
How big is a hotshot crew?
approximately 20–22 members
A hotshot crew consists of approximately 20–22 members, led by a minimum of one superintendent, one or two assistant superintendents, two or three squad leaders, and two senior firefighters. Hotshot crews are proficient in a range of fire suppression tactics.
What is a Type 1 fire crew?
The Firefighter Type 1 leads a small group (usually not more than seven members) and is responsible for their safety on wildland and prescribed fire incidents. The FFT1 supervises resources at the FFT2 level and reports to a Single Resource Crew Boss or other assigned supervisor.