Wildland Firefighter Jobs 2026 – Grade 12 Required | Apply Online

Are you physically fit, disciplined and interested in protecting communities and the environment from dangerous vegetation fires? The City of Cape Town is inviting suitably qualified internal and external applicants to apply for Seasonal Wildland Firefighter positions within its Fire Services Department.

This opportunity is open to candidates who have a Grade 12 certificate, are 18 years or older, and are willing to complete practical and theoretical firefighting training. Successful applicants will be appointed on a non-permanent six-month contract and may be stationed at any fire station within the City of Cape Town.

Wildland firefighters play an important role in responding to and controlling vegetation fires. The work can be physically demanding and may involve long hours, emergency call-outs, shift work and challenging weather conditions. Applicants must therefore be prepared to work as part of a team, remain calm under pressure and meet strict physical fitness requirements.

Job Opportunity Overview

Job Title: Wildland Firefighter
Department: Fire Services
Directorate: Safety and Security
Contract Type: Seasonal, Non-Permanent
Contract Duration: Six Months
Salary: R204,812 per year
Minimum Qualification: Grade 12
Minimum Age: 18 years
Working Hours: 40 hours per week and shift work
Reference Number: SS 48/26 Ext.
Closing Date: 14 August 2026

About the Wildland Firefighter Position

Wildland firefighters are responsible for assisting with firefighting operations and responding to vegetation fires under the guidance of experienced firefighting personnel.

The position involves more than fighting fires. Successful candidates will also help inspect and maintain firefighting equipment, clean and maintain firefighting vehicles, carry out fire-station duties and assist with the clearing of firebreaks.

Firefighters are expected to undergo continuous training to maintain their skills and remain prepared for emergencies. The role requires commitment, physical strength, teamwork and the ability to follow instructions during high-pressure situations.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Successful applicants may be required to perform the following duties:

• Carry out firefighting operations under supervision and guidance.
• Respond to and assist with the control of vegetation and wildland fires.
• Use firefighting equipment safely and correctly.
• Inspect and maintain firefighting equipment.
• Check, clean and maintain firefighting vehicles.
• Assist with fire-station duties and general maintenance.
• Help clear and maintain firebreaks.
• Participate in practical and theoretical firefighting training.
• Attend continuous training programmes.
• Follow workplace health and safety procedures.
• Work effectively with other firefighters and emergency personnel.
• Maintain accurate operational records.
• Perform additional duties linked to firefighting operations when required.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for these Wildland Firefighter jobs, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Grade 12 certificate.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Must be willing to complete practical and theoretical firefighting training.
• Must be willing to work at any designated fire station within the City of Cape Town.
• Must be willing to work 40 hours per week and shifts.
• Must be available to work additional hours or overtime at short notice.
• Must be able to work effectively as part of a team.
• Must be able to cope with stressful and demanding situations.
• Must have no criminal record.

Previous experience in the firefighting or fire-related industry will be an advantage but is not listed as a compulsory requirement.

Compulsory Physical Fitness Assessment

All shortlisted candidates will be required to complete and pass a physical fitness test. The assessment is designed to determine whether applicants are physically capable of performing firefighting duties.

The compulsory fitness test includes:

• Reach Test: Applicants must reach 1.9 metres.
• 2.4 km Run: Male applicants must complete the run within 12 minutes, while female applicants must complete it within 13 minutes.
• Push-Ups: Complete 30 push-ups within 60 seconds.
• Sit-Ups: Complete 30 sit-ups within 60 seconds.
• Dead Load Carry: Carry two 25 kg drums for a distance of 100 metres.

Candidates should prepare for these assessments by improving their endurance, strength, fitness and ability to perform physical tasks safely.

Additional Recruitment Assessments

Applicants who pass the physical fitness assessment will be required to complete additional recruitment processes. These may include:

• A written assessment covering Mathematics and English comprehension.
• A formal interview.
• Criminal-record verification using fingerprints or identity information.
• A medical evaluation.
• A compulsory drug test.

The employer may also conduct security checks, personal verification and other assessments during the recruitment process or employment period.

Important Information

Applicants should ensure that the information provided during the application process is accurate and complete. Certified copies of qualifications must be available if requested.

Candidates who are not contacted within three months after the closing date should accept that their applications were unsuccessful.

Final Thoughts

These Seasonal Wildland Firefighter vacancies offer an opportunity for physically fit Grade 12 holders who are interested in emergency services and protecting communities from vegetation fires.

The position requires discipline, courage, teamwork and a willingness to work under difficult conditions. If you meet the requirements and are prepared to complete the required fitness tests and firefighting training, consider applying before the closing date.

How to Apply