NCC Group is seeking 50 Fire Fighters to join wildland fire-fighting teams operating from various bases across the Western Cape. The positions are offered on a fixed-term contract running from October 2026 to September 2027.
The successful candidates will form part of teams responsible for protecting communities, natural areas, infrastructure and the environment through effective fire prevention, fire suppression and emergency response activities.
This is a physically demanding opportunity suited to individuals who are fit, disciplined, reliable and able to remain calm and focused in challenging environments. Fire Fighters may be required to work in difficult terrain, during changing weather conditions and for extended periods when responding to wildland fires.
Position: Fire Fighter
Number of Vacancies: 50
Contract Type: Fixed-Term Contract
Contract Period: October 2026 – September 2027
Location: Various operational bases across the Western Cape
Reference Number: BCS/Fire/02/2026
Closing Date: 26 August 2026
Vacancy Overview
Candidates must be prepared to work shifts, participate in standby duties and attend training sessions designed to maintain the required level of operational competency.
Key Responsibilities
The appointed Fire Fighters will be responsible for performing a range of operational duties related to wildland fire management.
Fire-Fighting Operations
Fire Fighters will participate in active fire suppression activities under the direction of the relevant operational team. Duties may include:
- Conducting direct fire attacks where conditions allow.
- Carrying out indirect fire attacks as instructed.
- Performing mop-up operations after fires have been brought under control.
- Monitoring fire areas and maintaining observation duties.
- Supporting emergency response activities.
- Working as part of an organised fire-fighting team.
- Following operational instructions and established safety procedures.
- Remaining alert to changing fire conditions and potential hazards.
Fire suppression work requires physical endurance, good communication and the ability to work effectively as part of a team. Fire Fighters must be able to follow instructions accurately, maintain situational awareness and perform their duties safely under pressure.
Fire Prevention Duties
The position also involves activities aimed at reducing the risk and impact of wildland fires. Fire prevention responsibilities may include:
- Clearing invasive or alien vegetation.
- Assisting with vegetation management activities.
- Setting up irrigation systems where required.
- Supporting public fire education initiatives.
- Participating in activities designed to reduce fire risks.
- Assisting with general fire prevention operations at designated locations.
These duties contribute to reducing fuel loads and improving preparedness before and during the fire season.
Equipment and Machinery
Fire Fighters will be expected to operate, use and maintain various tools, equipment and machinery required for their duties.
Candidates must take proper care of equipment and ensure that tools are used safely and appropriately. Equipment may need to be inspected, cleaned, maintained and stored correctly after use.
The ability to follow safety procedures when operating equipment is essential, particularly in physically demanding and potentially hazardous environments.
Training and Development
Successful candidates will be required to attend training sessions to maintain the required level of knowledge, skills and competency.
Training may cover operational procedures, fire-fighting techniques, equipment use, safety requirements, emergency response and other areas relevant to wildland fire management.
Employees must be willing to participate fully in required training and continuously maintain the standards expected for the position.
Physical Fitness Requirements
A high level of physical fitness is essential for this position. Wildland fire fighting can involve strenuous physical activity, difficult terrain, heavy equipment and prolonged periods of operational work.
Candidates must successfully complete a Physical Fitness Assessment as part of the recruitment process.
The required pack test consists of:
- Distance: 4.8 km
- Pack weight: 20 kg
- Required time: Under 45 minutes
Candidates should be physically prepared to meet this standard before attending the assessment.
In addition to the physical fitness assessment, shortlisted candidates must successfully complete an Occupational Health Practitioner Evaluation. Candidates are required to demonstrate that they are medically and physically capable of performing the duties associated with the position.
Maintaining physical fitness throughout the contract period will also be an important part of the role.
Essential Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must be 18 years or older.
- Must be available for shift work.
- Must be available for scheduled standby duties.
- Must have no criminal record, subject to verification.
- Must have a high level of physical fitness and good health.
- Must successfully complete the required Physical Fitness Assessment.
- Must successfully complete the Occupational Health Practitioner Evaluation.
- Must be able to work under pressure.
- Must be comfortable working in high-stress and physically demanding environments.
- Must comply with the NCC Group’s Alcohol, Drug, and Substance Use Policy.
- Must demonstrate strong teamwork abilities.
- Must have excellent observation skills.
Applicants should understand that wildland fire fighting is a demanding occupation requiring commitment, discipline and a strong focus on safety.
Shortlisted Candidates
Candidates who are shortlisted will be required to successfully complete additional recruitment checks and assessments.
The recruitment process will include a Physical Fitness Assessment, with the pack test requiring candidates to walk a distance of 4.8 km while carrying a 20 kg pack in under 45 minutes.
A criminal record check will also be conducted as part of the recruitment process.
Candidates must therefore ensure that the information provided in their applications is accurate and complete.
Shift Work and Standby Duties
The position requires flexibility because wildland fires and emergency situations can occur at different times. Successful candidates must therefore be available to work scheduled shifts and standby duties.
Standby requirements may involve being available to respond when operational conditions require additional fire-fighting resources.
Applicants should consider these requirements carefully before applying and ensure that they are able to meet the operational demands of the position throughout the contract period.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate will be physically fit, dependable and capable of working effectively within a team. Strong observation skills are important because fire conditions can change quickly and Fire Fighters must remain aware of their surroundings.
The role also requires individuals who can work under pressure without losing focus. Candidates should be willing to follow instructions, respect safety procedures and contribute positively to the overall effectiveness of the fire-fighting team.
A willingness to learn and participate in ongoing training is also important.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit their most recently updated CV by email.
- Email: [email protected]
- Reference: BCS/Fire/02/2026
- The CV must be titled using the applicant’s Name and Surname.
- Example: John Adam
- The correct reference number, BCS/Fire/02/2026, must also be included in the email subject line.
Applicants should check their CV carefully before submission and ensure that the document contains current and accurate information.
Application Instructions
Before sending an application, candidates should ensure that:
- The CV is the most recently updated version.
- The CV is titled with the applicant’s Name and Surname.
- The email is addressed to [email protected].
- The subject line contains the correct reference number: BCS/Fire/02/2026.
- The applicant meets the minimum age requirement.
- The applicant is prepared for shift and standby work.
- The applicant understands the physical fitness requirements.
- The applicant is prepared to complete the required criminal record check.
- The applicant is available to complete the required assessments if shortlisted.
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 26 August 2026.
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline and ensure that all application instructions are followed correctly.
Candidates who have not received a response within two weeks should consider their application unsuccessful.
Appointments will be made in line with the company’s Employment Equity Plans.
Important Information
This opportunity is particularly suited to applicants who are interested in wildland fire management and are prepared for a physically demanding working environment.
The successful candidates will be expected to maintain high standards of fitness, teamwork, discipline, safety awareness and operational readiness throughout the fixed-term contract.
Applicants should carefully consider the physical requirements before applying, especially the 4.8 km pack test with a 20 kg load to be completed in under 45 minutes.