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Burn Crew Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ecosystem Restoration Technician

Mc Cordsville, IN · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Chicago Wilderness Prescribed Burn Crew Training Certificate. * First Aid/CPR/AED training, OSHA 10-Hour, OSHA 30-Hour, and 24- or 40-hour HAZWOPER training. * ATV/UTV and chainsaw safety training.

Ecosystem Restoration Technician

Mc Cordsville, IN · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Chicago Wilderness Prescribed Burn Crew Training Certificate. * First Aid/CPR/AED training, OSHA 10-Hour, OSHA 30-Hour, and 24- or 40-hour HAZWOPER training. * ATV/UTV and chainsaw safety training.

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Burn Crew information

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How much do burn crew jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for burn crew in the United States is $73,995.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $86,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a burn crew?

Burn Crew are teams of trained professionals responsible for conducting controlled or prescribed burns. These burns are intentionally set to manage vegetation, reduce wildfire risk, and maintain healthy ecosystems. Burn Crew members prepare sites, ignite and control fires, monitor conditions, and ensure safety protocols are followed throughout the process. Their work is essential for land management, wildfire prevention, and promoting biodiversity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a burn crew member, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Burn Crew member, you typically need knowledge of fire behavior, wildland firefighting techniques, and a high level of physical fitness, often supported by completion of wildland fire training such as S-130/S-190 certifications. Familiarity with fire suppression tools, GPS units, radios, and personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential. Strong teamwork, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These abilities are crucial for ensuring personal safety, effective fire management, and successful collaboration during controlled burns or wildfire operations.

What are some common challenges faced by members of a burn crew, and how can they best prepare for these challenges?

Members of a Burn Crew often encounter physically demanding conditions, unpredictable weather, and the need to make rapid decisions in high-pressure situations. Effective teamwork and strong communication skills are essential to ensure safety and achieve prescribed burn objectives. Preparing for these challenges involves rigorous training in fire behavior, safety protocols, and equipment use, as well as maintaining peak physical fitness. Additionally, adaptability and a willingness to learn from experienced crew leaders are key to success in this role.

What is the difference between Burn Crew vs Firefighter?

AspectBurn CrewFirefighter
CertificationsWildland Firefighter Certification, First Aid/CPRFirefighter Certification, EMT/Paramedic License
Work EnvironmentWildland, forest, and rural areas during fire suppressionUrban and rural areas, structural and wildfire incidents
Employer & IndustryForestry agencies, wildfire management teamsFire departments, emergency services

Burn crews primarily focus on wildfire suppression in natural environments, requiring specialized wildland firefighting certifications. Firefighters have broader roles, including structural fire response and emergency medical services. While both roles involve fire suppression, burn crews work mainly in outdoor, rural settings, whereas firefighters operate in urban and mixed environments.

More about Burn Crew jobs

What cities are hiring for Burn Crew jobs?

Cities with the most Burn Crew job openings:

What states have the most Burn Crew jobs?

States with the most job openings for Burn Crew jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Burn Crew jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Burn Crew jobs are:

Infographic showing various Burn Crew job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,995 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Natural Areas Ecologist

Waukegan, IL

Dragonfly Pond Works
Environmental Consulting Services • 51 - 200 employees

$18 - $19.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Dragonfly Pond Works rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Do you enjoy working outdoors and want to be part of a growing environmental company? Dragonfly Pond Works - ILM offers year-round and seasonal opportunities with long-term career potential. Join our "swarm" today!

We are seeking passionate team members in the Greater Chicago area for the Natural Areas Ecologist role. This entry-level, field-based position supports habitat restoration through invasive species control, controlled burns, native seeding, and plant installation-ideal for individuals with a background in Restoration Ecology or a related field.

Location: Waukegan, IL 60085

Pay: $18- $19.50 an hour- Full-time

Requirements
  • Must be at least 21 years of age (unless seasonal)
  • Must have a valid state driver's license. Driving record must meet the minimum requirements of our insurance company.
  • Must possess at least a high school diploma and be actively pursuing a college degree in Ecology or a related field. Bachelor's or Associate Degree preferred.
  • Must obtain an Illinois Department of Agriculture Commercial Pesticide Operators License within first 30 days of employment. Study materials and testing fees will be provided by ILM.
  • Has the physical ability to execute invasive plant control (mechanical and chemical), native seeding, planting, and controlled burning. This includes standing, kneeling, bending, and walking for long periods of time on uneven terrain during all seasons and weather conditions.
  • Has the ability to lift/carry up to 50 lbs.
  • Has basic smartphone and computer skills.
  • Has a basic understanding of Midwest ecological restoration practices and plant communities.
  • Team-oriented and aligned with Dragonfly's values: Quality Focus, Takes Ownership, and Growth Oriented.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Control invasive plant species (via herbicide application or mechanical removal).
  • Participate as a burn crew member during controlled burns.
  • Restore or install native areas via native seeding and/or native plant installation.
  • Assist in writing service reports to summarize daily activities.
  • Perform all tasks safely and adhere to company safety policies.
  • Conduct basic maintenance on small engine equipment and hand tools.
  • Take direction from team members as well as crew leaders.
  • Safely drive company vehicles to and from job sites, with or without a trailer.
  • Safely operate specialized equipment (UTVs, Marsh Masters, Skid Steers, Brush Mowers).
  • Accurately record timesheets and submit them to the Manager for approval.
  • Follow company policies as stated in the Employee Handbook.
Benefits & Perks:
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • 401(k) matching
  • Life Insurance
  • Pet Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Pay
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Referral Bonus
  • Protective Footwear Bonus

Dragonfly Pond Works is a leading environmental service company specializing in stormwater management. Since 2006, Dragonfly has provided routine maintenance and repairs on stormwater devices, lakes, ponds, wetlands, and underground facilities. We are proud to have a very respectful work environment and expect all our employees to adhere to the same standard throughout the organization.

We are proudly an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.


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