Forestry Aid/Forestry Technician (Wildland Firefighter)

United States Forest Service • Andalusia, AL

265d

About The Position

The Forestry Aid/Forestry Technician (Wildland Firefighter) position at the Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, involves serving as an experienced firefighter on a hand crew or related fire suppression crews. The role includes performing fire suppression and fuels management duties under adverse conditions, operating chainsaws, and conducting wildland and prescribed fire operations. Responsibilities also include collecting fire weather data, managing pump operations, loading helicopter personnel and cargo, and performing project work such as road and trail maintenance.

Requirements

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
• Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service or exempt.
• Subject to satisfactory adjudication of background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
• Successful completion of one-year probationary period, unless previously served.
• Must be 18 years of age.
• This is a drug testing designated position; subject to pre-employment and random drug testing.
• Must pass the Work Capacity Test for certain Interagency Fire Program Management positions.
• Willing to live/work in remote locations.
• Under age 37 or eligible for a waiver if older.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in forestry aid or technician work.
• Knowledge of fire control, prevention, or suppression work.
• Completion of relevant coursework in forestry, agriculture, or natural resources.

Responsibilities

• Serve as an experienced firefighter on a hand crew or other related fire suppression crews.
• Perform fire suppression and/or fuels management duties under adverse conditions.
• Operate as a fully qualified chainsaw operator and chainsaw repair technician.
• Conduct all aspects of wildland and prescribed fire operations including preparation, ignition, monitoring, holding, and mop-up.
• Collect fire weather data, fuel and/or soil moisture samples, and maintain records.
• Start pump engines, prime pumps, adjust engine speed and pump valves, and lay hoses.
• Load helicopter personnel and cargo, ensuring proper weight distribution and securing methods.
• Perform project work such as road and trail maintenance and habitat manipulation.

Benefits

• Permanent position with varying tours of duty.
• Potential availability of government housing and federal day care facilities.
• Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized.
• Promotion potential under a career development plan.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Support Activities for Agriculture and Forestry