ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Defensible Space Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Dudek

Evacuation Planner

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$110K - $140K/yr

Familiarity with emergency planning procedures and standards, the Incident Command System, and state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is also highly desirable ...

Dudek

Evacuation Planner

San Diego, CA

$57K - $78K/yr

Familiarity with emergency planning procedures and standards, the Incident Command System, and state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is also highly desirable ...

Dudek

Evacuation Planner

Pasadena, CA

$110K - $140K/yr

Familiarity with emergency planning procedures and standards, the Incident Command System, and state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is also highly desirable ...

Dudek

Evacuation Planner

Mission Viejo, CA

$58K - $80K/yr

Familiarity with emergency planning procedures and standards, the Incident Command System, and state and local building, development, and defensible space codes and standards is also highly desirable ...

State of Nevada (NV)

FORESTER 3

Carson City, NV

$64K - $95K/yr

Provide natural resource educational information to the public regarding best management practices for forest health, forest stewardship, defensible space, fuel reduction, and fire-safe landscapes ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDefensible Space Jobs

Defensible Space information

See salary details

$36K

$74.9K

$121.5K

How much do defensible space jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for defensible space in the United States is $74,860.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,500.00 and $87,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the career paths in fire protection?

Careers in fire protection include roles such as fire inspector, fire investigator, fire protection engineer, and fire safety officer. These positions often require certifications like NICET or state licensing, and may involve working in fire departments, government agencies, or private firms to develop safety protocols, conduct inspections, and design fire prevention systems.

Are fire inspector jobs in demand?

Fire inspector jobs, including roles focused on defensible space, are expected to grow as fire prevention and safety regulations increase. These positions often require certification and knowledge of local fire codes, with employment opportunities available in government agencies, fire departments, and environmental organizations.

How long does it take to become a fire safety inspector?

Becoming a fire safety inspector typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or certification, which can take several months to a year. Many inspectors also gain experience as firefighters or in related roles before obtaining certification from agencies such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Defensible Space Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defensible Space Inspector, you need knowledge of fire prevention standards, vegetation management, and local regulations, typically supported by experience in fire safety or related environmental fields. Familiarity with GIS mapping tools, mobile inspection software, and sometimes specific state certifications is important for accurate assessments. Strong observation, communication, and problem-solving skills help inspectors effectively educate property owners and document compliance. These abilities ensure properties are safer from wildfire risks and regulations are properly enforced.

What is defensible space?

Defensible space refers to the area around a building where vegetation, debris, and other combustible materials are managed or removed to reduce the risk of fire damage. Creating defensible space helps slow the spread of wildfire and provides firefighters with a safer area to protect structures. This typically involves clearing flammable plants, maintaining lawns, and using fire-resistant landscaping within a specific distance from buildings. Homeowners are often required by local regulations to maintain defensible space to improve community safety.

What are some common challenges faced by Defensible Space Inspectors, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Defensible Space Inspectors often encounter challenges such as communicating fire safety requirements to property owners who may be unfamiliar with local regulations or resistant to making changes. Additionally, inspectors may need to navigate varied terrain and weather conditions while conducting site assessments. Building strong communication skills, staying up-to-date on fire codes, and using digital tools for reporting can help address these challenges. Collaboration with local fire departments and continuous public education are also key to ensuring compliance and maintaining safety.

What is the difference between Defensible Space vs Fire Inspector?

AspectDefensible SpaceFire Inspector
Required CredentialsKnowledge of fire safety, landscaping, and property managementFire science certification, state or local fire inspector license
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, residential and commercial propertiesIndoor inspections, community education, report writing
Employer & IndustryProperty owners, fire departments, municipalitiesFire departments, government agencies, consulting firms

Defensible Space involves creating and maintaining a safe zone around properties to reduce fire risk, focusing on landscaping and property management. Fire Inspectors evaluate buildings and properties for fire safety compliance. While both roles aim to prevent fires, Defensible Space is proactive property management, whereas Fire Inspectors conduct assessments and enforce safety codes.

What does defensible space mean?

In the context of defensible space jobs, it refers to the strategic modification of a property to reduce fire risk and improve safety. This involves creating clear zones free of combustible materials, maintaining vegetation, and designing landscapes to slow fire spread, which are key skills for professionals working in wildfire prevention and property protection.
More about Defensible Space jobs
What states have the most Defensible Space jobs? States with the most job openings for Defensible Space jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Defensible Space jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Defensible Space jobs are:
Defensible Space jobs near you
Forestry Sawyer

Forestry Sawyer

Markit! Forestry Management LLC

Colorado Springs, CO • On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Markit! Forestry is looking to gather qualified applicants to fill future Forestry Sawyer positions.

Summary: As a member of Markit! Forestry’s sawyer team you will be working on forest health, forest fuels reduction, post-fire rehabilitation, and defensible space projects on private, state and federal lands. Markit! is positively changing the way forests are managed and the Sawyer plays an impactful role in the success of our projects and progress. We are looking for career minded individuals who are dedicated to reliably making a difference in the Forestry industry.
Location: Headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colorado; projects may be located in Colorado, and surrounding states Including Wyoming, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada and California.

Travel: 75-90%

What You'll Be Doing:

  • Chainsaw Operation – felling operations, directional felling, hazard felling, limbing and bucking
  • Slash management – lop-and-scatter, chipping operations, and hauling material
  • Erosion Control – contour felling, LEB creation and installation
  • Assisting with project layout and marking
  • Chainsaw and tool maintenance
  • General forestry labor
  • Understand and implement different cutting prescriptions
  • Direct sub-contractors to perform fuels mitigation practices and cutting prescriptions

Requirements:

  • At least 21 years of age.
  • A valid driver’s license or ability to acquire one upon employment.
  • 1 to 2 years of outdoor work experience in forest management and restoration activities .
  • Ability to travel is a must for this position and will include extended periods on the road, dependent on current ongoing projects.
  • A National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) S-212, or equivalent certificate. Non-certified professionals with over two years of experience in forestry and logging operations will still be considered. If lacking S-212, Markit! will support in gaining that certification within your first year.
  • Physically fit, able to bend, squat and lift up to 50 pounds and able to handle back country hikes with heavy gear loads in elevations ranging from 6,000 to +10,000 feet. Frequently away from vehicles or amenities for the entire course of the day.
  • Ability and desire to perform strenuous outdoor work in a variety of weather conditions, away from amenities for entire day.

Preferred Background & Experience:

  • NWCG S 130/190 Wildfire Training.
  • Saw mechanic experience.
  • An associates or bachelor’s degree in forestry or related natural resources field, current enrollment in a forestry degree program or similar is acceptable.
  • Ability to accurately identify tree species .
  • Ability to calculate basal area.
  • Experience working with helicopter logging.
  • Experience operating Heavy Equipment such as logging machinery and/or willingness to learn.
  • First aid, CPR, Wilderness First Aid, or other medical certifications.
  • Background in Sawyer certification.

Language:

  • English required.
  • Bi-lingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.

Benefits:

  • Competitive wages based on experience and qualifications.
  • Annual reviews.
  • Health insurance including medical, dental and vision.
  • Supplementary insurance including life, short and long term insurance.
  • Paid holidays, vacation and personal time.
  • Retirement with company match.
  • Company provided training for career advancement.

Markit! Forestry is an equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

Powered by JazzHR

aUVq2Gnvek