FOREST RANGER SUPERVISOR/EXPERT

State of Arkansas•Greenbrier, AR

2d•$57,351 - $84,879•Onsite

About The Position

The Forest Ranger Supervisor/Expert oversees and directs forestry operations, wildfire prevention and suppression, and conservation efforts in Arkansas state forests and public lands. The position may supervise a team of rangers and seasonal staff, or serve as a senior technical expert depending on the hiring agency’s operational needs. Duties include coordinating emergency response, managing public education about forest conservation, and ensuring sustainable use of state forest resources. The role is with the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division in Faulkner County.

Requirements

At least three years of experience in forestry, fire suppression, land management, or a related field, including one year in a leadership capacity.
Must reside within the assigned area.
Must pass an annual physical-fitness standard as a condition of employment.
Must possess a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) within one year of hire.
Ability to lead, train, and motivate forestry personnel; delegate tasks; and make critical decisions in high-pressure environments.
Experience in personnel management, performance evaluations, and conflict resolution.
Knowledge of forest fire behavior, suppression techniques, and controlled burns.
Proficiency in GPS mapping, forestry equipment operation, and land surveying.
Understanding of Arkansas forestry laws, conservation practices, and land management.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate ideas orally and in writing.
Ability to de-escalate conflicts and maintain professional relationships with landowners, government officials, and emergency responders.
Ability to assess emergency situations quickly and implement effective response plans.
Critical-thinking ability to develop solutions to forestry management challenges.
Knowledge of National Incident Management Systems.
Ability to plan, organize, and oversee the work of others.
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

Direct and supervise forest rangers and seasonal staff in wildfire suppression, conservation, and related duties, or serve as a senior technical expert as operational needs require.
Assign duties, monitor performance, and provide coaching and professional development.
Ensure compliance with state forestry policies, safety regulations, and fire-control procedures.
Develop and implement wildfire prevention strategies, including controlled burns and firebreak construction.
Oversee fire-suppression operations and coordinate response with local fire departments, emergency services, and federal agencies.
Train personnel in firefighting techniques, specialized equipment use, and safety protocols.
Oversee reforestation, timber harvesting, and habitat restoration projects.
Monitor and manage forest health issues, including disease outbreaks and invasive species.
Promote sustainable use of state forest resources.
Inspect logging operations for compliance with state permits and conservation practices.
Respond to public inquiries and provide expert guidance on forestry management and fire prevention.
Work with law enforcement agencies to prosecute forestry-related offenses.
Assist with disaster response and recovery related to wildfires, storms, and other natural hazards affecting state forests.
Coordinate with state and federal emergency management agencies to develop response plans.
Supervise deployment of personnel and resources during emergencies.
Oversee and assist with preventive maintenance and repair of agency vehicles, equipment, tools, and facilities.
Function as Incident Commander on emergency incidents.