I flew forest service contracts in my past. The majority of firefighting planes are private contractors. They don't require any previous firefighting background. However, to get a proper Forest Service flying job usually it means spending several years on the ground first.

It is a fun job but a hard life. As an aerial firefighter you spend 6 months or more on the road. It is best to love firefighting first and flying second. Miost tanker pilots don't fly that much.

Skyhigh