Extended work shifts of 16 hours or more are not uncommon. Hourly wages are based on the firefighter's experience and their position. BLM firefighters are available to be dispatched to fire assignments anywhere in the country. Firefighters must be able to be away from their duty station for up to three weeks at a time. In New Mexico, seasonal firefighters begin work in February in the southern part of the state, and in May in the northern part.
Positions usually last four to six months.
The length of employment is dependent on the severity of the wildfire season. Drug Testing BLM firefighting positions require satisfactory completion of a drug test as a condition of employment. Firefighters are subject to random drug testing at anytime during their employment. Application Information Applications for most temporary seasonal firefighter positions are due in January, well before the start of the fire season. Persons interested in seasonal firefighting positions with the BLM in New Mexico should contact the BLM Field Office at the location in which they would like to work.