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’s forestlands. It involves hands-on fieldwork, operating specialized equipment, and working with senior forestry personnel to protect state forests. Rangers may respond to wildfires, natural disasters, and other emergencies, and may serve on fire response teams and disaster relief operations. Forest Rangers must reside in the county of their work station or counties of responsibility, or within a distance that allows them to arrive at the work station and be en route to an emergency within 30 minutes. The position requires passing an annual physical-fitness standard and completing required training. A Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) must be obtained within 12 months of hire. Other job-related education or experience may be substituted for some basic requirements, subject to approval, except for certification or licensure requirements.
Requirements
- At least six months of experience in forestry, fire suppression, land management, or a related field.
- Six months of experience in tractor or truck operations and maintenance.
- Must pass an annual physical-fitness standard and complete required training.
- Must reside within the assigned area under the Forestry Division Residency policy.
- Must 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 quick, sound decisions in emergency situations.
- Strong observational skills to identify fire risks and environmental hazards.
- Ability to follow detailed safety and operational procedures.
- Effective communication with team members, supervisors, and the public; strong listening and comprehension skills.
- Ability to work as part of a coordinated fire suppression and conservation team, follow directions from senior forestry personnel, and adapt to changing conditions.
- Dependability in responding to emergencies and working in remote locations and challenging environments.
- Ability to work under extreme weather conditions, on rough terrain, and in potentially hazardous or dangerous conditions.
- May be required to work under extended subject-to-call status and extended work hours.
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.
- Help monitor forest health, including identifying pests, diseases, and invasive species.
- Educate landowners, schools, and visitors about fire prevention and responsible forestry practices.
- Help monitor for illegal logging, arson, and fire law violations.
- Support law enforcement in 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 emergency situations as needed.
- Coordinate with state and federal agencies on emergency preparedness and response efforts.
- Serve on fire response teams and disaster relief operations.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
