Animal Packer

Forest Service•Mimbres, NM

7d•Onsite

About The Position

This position is located within a National Forest and is responsible for packing supplies and equipment into backcountry locations by horse or mule. The position provides packing services to remote backcountry locations and includes handling, transporting, and caring for pack stock and related equipment. The position also performs manual labor involving trail maintenance and reconstruction as assigned. This is a temporary position for the FY2027 hiring season, with an expected start date between April 18, 2027 and June 13, 2027. It will be filled for up to six months or for a not-to-exceed period of one year. An extension may be possible without further competition, and the appointment may end early due to lack of work or funding. The position is not eligible for telework.

Requirements

Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with Selective Service or exempt.
Must pass the required background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
Must use direct deposit for federal payments.
Must successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
Must demonstrate the ability to perform the work without more than normal supervision.
Must demonstrate technical practices, use of measuring instruments, ability to interpret instructions and specifications, ability to use and maintain tools and equipment, knowledge of materials, and dexterity and safety.
There is no substitution of education for this position.
Application and resume must clearly show qualifying experience; transcripts must be provided when qualifications are based on education.

Responsibilities

Pack and balance supplies, tools, and equipment; rig loads on pack saddles and monitor and adjust them as needed.
Provide packing services to remote backcountry locations using horses or mules.
Load animals into and out of trailers, secure them in trailers, and tow trailers with heavy-duty trucks.
Groom, feed, water, and provide medical care for stock, including tending to bruises, cuts, sores, and other medical needs.
Maintain pack equipment, tack, supplies, and other equipment.
Assist with maintenance of stock facilities, including fences, corrals, and water systems.
Ride and lead pack animals across rugged mountainous terrain while avoiding injury to stock, self, or cargo.
Perform manual labor tasks involving trail maintenance and reconstruction as assigned.
Monitor stock and related equipment and report issues or concerns to the stock manager and supervisor.