Forestry Technician

United States Forest Service • Bayfield, CO

434d • $36,088 - $36,088

About The Position

The Forestry Technician position is a temporary role within the National Forest Service, primarily focused on wildland firefighting. The technician will work as part of a fire crew, engaging in various firefighting activities, including fire suppression, equipment operation, and maintenance. The role requires physical fitness and the ability to work in remote locations, with responsibilities that may extend to other resource management activities when not engaged in firefighting duties.

Requirements

• Must be a US Citizen or US National.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License.
• Must pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
• Must successfully pass the Work Capacity Test for Wildland Firefighters at the Arduous level.
• Must meet the Federal Wildland Firefighter Medical Standards for arduous duty wildland firefighting.
• Subject to satisfactory adjudication of background investigation and/or fingerprint check.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with hand tools or power equipment for fire line creation and debris removal.
• Familiarity with fire suppression techniques and equipment operation.

Responsibilities

• Perform as a member of a fire crew assigned to suppress a range of fires.
• Move dirt, chop brush, and fell small trees to build fireline using hand tools and power saws.
• Lay or direct hose in the use of water for fire control.
• Patrol areas of controlled fires to extinguish remaining burning material.
• Operate specialized fire suppression equipment such as portable pumps or drip torch.
• Observe, record, and preserve evidence of fire causes.
• Assist in other resource management activities when not performing fire suppression duties.
• Drive and operate fire engines or apparatus, ensuring safe and efficient operation.
• Service and make minor repairs to fire engines and equipment.
• Perform basic fire line activities such as line construction and hose layout.
• Independently or with a small team, carry out specialized assignments such as tree falling and backfire operations.
• Participate in prescribed burns, monitoring fire behavior and collecting data.
• Load helicopter cargo and complete manifest of crews and equipment.

Benefits

• Access to a comprehensive benefits package as a federal employee.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Support Activities for Agriculture and Forestry
• Education Level: High school or GED