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TIPS AND SUGGESTIONS

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BLM/FA-GI-18-002 +250

BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT, 

OFFICE OF FIRE AND AVIATION

Before you begin to train or increase 

your physical activity, consult 

your physician. This is especially 

important if you are over 40 and/or 

have been inactive, have a history 

of a heart condition, chest pain, loss 

of balance, or have joint or bone 

problems that could be exacerbated 

by physical activity.

During the actual test, officials 

will monitor the participants for 

any problems. The test should be 

completed by walking briskly, no 

running or jogging. It is pass/fail 

and you can choose your own pack, 

a standard firefighter pack, or a 

weighted vest, which will be weighed 

before starting the test.

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WILDLAND FIRE CAREERS

HOW TO APPLY

If you are interested in becoming a 

firefighter, you can apply online and submit 

an application during open periods.

» Go to www.usajobs.gov

» Sign in or create an account

» Build your resume

» Search for vacancy announcements

» Apply for a position

» Submit all required documentation
The firefighter 

work capacity test 

is designed to 

measure wildland 

firefighter strength, 

aerobic ability 

and muscular 

endurance. This 

test is important 

for the safety 

and health 

of every 

firefighter 

working on 

the fireline. 

WORK CAPACITY TEST

WHAT IS THE WORK 

CAPACITY TEST?

All wildland firefighters must meet minimum levels 

of fitness requirements for the type of duties they 

are assigned. There are three levels of tests: 

Arduous: involves fieldwork that requires aboveaverage endurance and exceptional physical fitness. 

All wildland firefighters are required to perform 

arduous duties on the job due to the need to work in 

steep terrain, above average temperatures, smoky 

conditions, and high altitudes. This test requires the 

firefighter to wear a 45 lb. pack as he or she walks 

three miles over flat terrain within 45 minutes.

Moderate: involves fieldwork that requires 

above-average physical fitness and may include 

considerable walking, standing, and lifting of 25 – 

50 lbs. This test requires the firefighter to wear a 

25 lb. pack as he or she walks two miles over flat 

terrain within 30 minutes. 

Light: involves mainly office-type duties, with 

occasional fieldwork. This test requires a one-mile 

walk over flat terrain within a 16-minute timeframe. 

THE WORK CAPACTIY TEST

WANT TO

It is recommended that training for the work capacity 

test begin at least four to six weeks before taking the test, 

though people who begin training a few months before 

the test typically experience more success and better test 

results. Firefighters should begin building up their aerobic 

fitness by slowly increasing activity level. 

» Hike three miles with no weight. 

» After a comfort level is reached, jog three 

miles with no weight. 

» Finally, add the pack and hike hills to build 

leg strength.

» Pace yourself! 

While training, use comfortable footwear and clothing. 

Your practice pack should weigh 45 pounds for the 

arduous test or 25 pounds for the moderate test.

TRAINING FOR THE WORK CAPACTIY TEST