Think you'll be ready? Can you do the 110 pound, 3-mile packout test in under 90 minutes? Do you meet all the other physical and training requirements?Several agencies are currently recruiting firefighters for next summer. There are between 40 and 74 smokjumper openings advertised for Oregon, Washington, California, Idaho, and Montana, and "multiple vacancies" in Alaska (if you qualify).Two of the job announcements opened last week and show closing dates coming up very soon. The detailed smokejumper requirements announcements can be found online for Pacific Northwest, and for Alaska. The Alaska BLM applicantions are due by November 6, 2002. USDA Smokejumper Applications under the present announcement must be submitted by November 29, 2002.For more information online, go to http://jsearch.usajobs.opm.gov/ and search for "smokejumper" or "forestry technician".Another source for lists of related job openings is wildlandfire.com. If you're not ready for jumping, take a look at the other openings that will help you build your skills and resume in a less demanding role.Perhaps the only thing between you and getting a job offer is filing the application on time. Only you can decide if you want to find out.Barry NelsonChelan Rappeller 1979