FOREST RANGER I
About The Position
The Forest Ranger I is an entry-level position with the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division. The role is responsible for wildfire prevention and suppression, timber management, public education, and law enforcement support related to Arkansas forestlands. It involves hands-on fieldwork, operating specialized equipment, and working with senior forestry personnel to protect state forests. The position requires working in remote locations and adapting to challenging, potentially hazardous conditions, including extreme weather and rough terrain. Rangers may be required to work extended hours and remain subject to call. Employees must reside in their assigned county or within a distance that allows them to reach the work station and be en route to an emergency within 30 minutes. The position requires passing annual physical-fitness standards and required training. A Commercial Driver’s License must be obtained within 12 months of hire.
Requirements
- At least six months of experience in forestry, fire suppression, land management, or a related field.
- Six months of experience in tractor/truck operations and maintenance.
- Pass annual physical-fitness standards and required training.
- Reside in the assigned county or within a distance allowing arrival at the work station and travel toward an emergency within 30 minutes.
- Obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) within 12 months of hire.
- Basic understanding of wildfire suppression techniques and forestry management.
- Ability to operate and maintain firefighting tools, chainsaws, and light utility vehicles.
- Familiarity with Arkansas forestry laws and fire safety regulations.
- Ability to make sound decisions quickly in emergency situations.
- Strong observational skills to identify fire risks and environmental hazards.
- Ability to follow detailed safety and operational procedures.
- Ability to communicate effectively with team members, supervisors, and the public.
- Strong listening and comprehension skills to follow orders and safety guidelines.
- Ability to work as part of a coordinated fire suppression and conservation team and follow directions from senior forestry personnel.
- Dependability in responding to emergencies, working in remote locations, and adapting to challenging work environments.
- Ability to work under extreme weather conditions, on rough terrain, and in potentially hazardous or dangerous conditions.
- May be required to work extended hours and remain subject to call.
Nice To Haves
- Other job-related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of the basic requirements, except certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the Qualifications Review Committee.
Responsibilities
- Perform wildfire suppression using water pumps, hand tools, and heavy equipment.
- Conduct controlled burns and maintain firebreaks to reduce wildfire risks.
- Monitor fire-prone areas and report hazardous conditions to supervisors.
- Maintain and operate firefighting equipment, vehicles, and safety gear for field operations.
- Participate in tree planting, reforestation projects, and habitat restoration.
- Assist in monitoring forest health, including identifying pests, diseases, and invasive species.
- Educate landowners, schools, and visitors about fire prevention and responsible forestry practices.
- Assist in monitoring for illegal logging, arson, and fire law violations.
- Support law enforcement with inspections and investigations of forestry-related infractions.
- Report observed violations of fire bans, timber harvesting laws, and state forestry regulations.
- Respond to wildfires, natural disasters, and other emergencies as needed.
- Coordinate with state and federal agencies on emergency preparedness and response.
- Serve on fire response teams and disaster relief operations.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
