The Vail Fire Wildland Fire Program was established in 2007.The program is currently staffed with 10 personnel including a 3 full time overhead, and 7 seasonal firefighters. The crews are configured into 2 type 6 engine modules.

The wildland program’s primary mission is to protect the Town of Vail from Wildfire through prevention, mitigation and suppression. The crews are heavily involved in hazardous fuels reduction projects throughout the town and on the surrounding U.S. Forest Service land. Wildland crew members are skilled in the use of a variety of hand tools, chainsaws and suppression and prescribed fire techniques.

If you are interested in employment with the Vail Fire Wildland program or have questions regarding the program, contact Wildland Program Manager Paul Cada at (970) 477-3475.

The Program

The mission of the program is to provide for the safety of the Town of Vail before, during and after a wildland fire incident. The modules work in many capacities to fulfill this mission including; fuels management projects, community assessments, wildland fire suppression and prescribed fire operations. The majority of time during the season will be spent on project work such as fuels management and community chipping.

The modules work collaboratively with other jurisdictions throughout Eagle County to provide mutual aid on all lands throughout the county. The department is a cooperator of the Upper Colorado River Fire Management Unit. The program staffs two Type 6 engines out of West Vail- Station 3.

In addition to the wildland suppression and mitigation activities the modules are also heavily involved in the management of the forested lands under the ownership of the Town of Vail. Staff will be trained and involved in technical tree removal in a more urban environment throughout the season.

Response

The modules will respond to all wildfires within the 200 square mile Vail Fire response area as well as mutual aid requests throughout Eagle County. Elevation range within the response area is 8,000-13,000 feet above sea level with many steep and rugged slopes. The modules may also be utilized for other types of all hazard calls as appropriate. Staff will be available for national dispatch as local fire conditions allow. Employees may be exposed to extreme temperature variations, extended work hours, dust and smoke, insect bites and other unpredictable working conditions.

Schedule

The season will run May through Oct. Staff will work either a 4 day - 10 hour or 5 day- 8 hour schedule based on crew and department need. Overtime is based on fire activity and other needs.

Physical Fitness

Vail Fire acknowledges that physical fitness plays a key role in firefighter effectiveness and safety. All wildland division members are expected to begin the season at a high physical fitness level and participate in daily physical fitness training. All crew members must pass the arduous pack test; 3 mile hike, within 45 minutes, while carrying a 45 pound pack, as a condition of employment. Additionally crew members should be ready to fight fire and complete project work on steep slopes over mountainous terrain. Programs such as Fire Fitness that help prepare crew members for a successful season.

Housing

The Town of Vail offers several different options for employees. Housing rates are lower than comparable free market rentals available in the area. Employee housing is available on a limited basis.

The Town

Vail, which is centrally located in the Rocky Mountains, offers easy access to Denver (100 miles to the east) and is surrounded by the White River National Forest, offering world class outdoor activities in summer and winter (skiing, snowboarding, hiking, biking, white water).

When asked, most of our employees say that working for the Town of Vail feels like family. Our values-based culture is nurtured by the employees’ strong desire to foster teamwork, take ownership in Vail’s future and an overall pride for serving their community. To find out more about our community, please visit Vail and click on Vail Information.

Seasonal Benefits

As a Seasonal employee we encourage you to enjoy the local outdoor activities that brought you here! Summer employees will be provided with a Golf & Tennis Pass at the Vail Golf Course and Tennis Center.

Additional Information

Interested applicants, or those desiring further information, should contact Paul Cada, Wildfire Program Manager, by phone 970-477-3475 or e-mail pcada@vailgov.com.

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