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Fire Spotter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Red Badge Firewatch/Tankwatch

Portsmouth, VA

$27.75/hr

Carry and maintain fire extinguisher and required identification * Assist with housekeeping and spotter duties when not actively engaged in fire watch * Coordinate with supervisors and ensure site ...

MMI Industrial & Steel

General Laborer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$19.75 - $24.50/hr

Perform fire watch, hole watch, and spotter duties to support safe work operations * Transport, stage, and organize materials, tools, and equipment across the jobsite * Maintain jobsite cleanliness ...

Talent Corps

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Construction- Laborer - 3 months Project

Pendleton, SC · On-site

$20/hr

... Perform fire watch duties and act as a spotter for heavy equipment • Maintain dumpster areas and coordinate vendor schedules • Inspect tools and equipment before use • Follow all safety ...

Turner Construction

Laborer (Omaha)

Springfield, NE · On-site

$17.50 - $22.25/hr

Perform fire watch duties and construct scaffolding as needed. * Manage dumpster vendor schedule and maintain dumpster areas for cleanliness and organization. * Perform as spotter for heavy equipment ...

Turner Construction

Laborer

Memphis, TN

$16 - $20.50/hr

Perform fire watch duties and construct scaffolding as needed. * Manage dumpster vendor schedule and maintain dumpster areas for cleanliness and organization. * Perform as spotter for heavy equipment ...

Turner Construction

Laborer

Monroe, LA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Perform fire watch duties and construct scaffolding as needed. * Manage dumpster vendor schedule and maintain dumpster areas for cleanliness and organization. * Perform as spotter for heavy equipment ...

Turner Construction

Laborer

West Des Moines, IA

$16.25 - $21/hr

Perform fire watch duties and construct scaffolding as needed. * Manage dumpster vendor schedule and maintain dumpster areas for cleanliness and organization. * Perform as spotter for heavy equipment ...

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Fire Spotter information

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$11

$17

$23

How much do fire spotter jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for fire spotter in the United States is $17.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Fire Spotter vs Fire Watcher?

AspectFire SpotterFire Watcher
CertificationsOften requires fire safety training or certificationsTypically requires fire watch certification or safety training
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, construction sites, wildfire prone areasIndoor or outdoor, construction sites, industrial facilities
Employer & IndustryConstruction, forestry, wildfire managementConstruction, industrial, manufacturing

Both roles focus on fire prevention and safety, often requiring similar certifications. Fire Spotters primarily monitor for wildfires or outdoor fire hazards, while Fire Watchers oversee fire safety during construction or industrial activities. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right role based on work environment and industry needs.

What are Fire Spotters and what do they do?

Fire Spotters are individuals trained to detect and report wildfires, often from lookout towers or while patrolling forests. Their main responsibility is to survey large areas for signs of smoke or fire and quickly communicate any findings to emergency response teams. By doing so, fire spotters play a crucial role in the early detection of wildfires, helping to prevent their spread and minimize damage. They may also record weather conditions, assist firefighting teams with updates, and sometimes help coordinate response efforts. The job requires vigilance, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently for long periods.

What are some common challenges Fire Spotters face during peak wildfire season?

During peak wildfire season, Fire Spotters often contend with long shifts, varying weather conditions, and the need for constant vigilance. The role can be both physically and mentally demanding, as spotters must remain attentive for extended periods to accurately detect smoke or fire signs. Communication with firefighting teams is crucial, and timely, clear reporting is essential to ensure rapid response. Additionally, working in remote lookout towers can sometimes feel isolating, but strong teamwork and regular check-ins help maintain morale and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Fire Spotter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Fire Spotter, you need keen observational skills, attention to detail, and the physical ability to work in remote environments, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with communication equipment, GPS devices, and fire reporting systems is typically required. Strong situational awareness, reliability, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills. These competencies are critical for early fire detection and effective communication, ensuring rapid response to potential wildfires and the safety of communities and natural resources.
More about Fire Spotter jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Fire Spotter jobs? The most popular types of Fire Spotter jobs are:
What states have the most Fire Spotter jobs? States with the most job openings for Fire Spotter jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Fire Spotter jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Fire Spotter jobs are:
Fire Spotter jobs near you
Infographic showing various Fire Spotter job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Temporary. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,749 per year, or $17.7 per hour.
Seasonal Spotter - Solid Waste

Seasonal Spotter - Solid Waste

Kootenai County

Coeur D Alene, ID • On-site

$17/hr

Temporary

Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Seasonal Spotter - Solid Waste                             


Looking for a hands-on role where no two days are the same? As a Seasonal Spotter, you will play a key part in keeping our community clean, organized, and running smoothly. This dynamic seasonal position blends outdoor work, customer interaction, and essential operations at our transfer station.


Why You'll Love This Opportunity:

  • Competitive Pay: $17.00 per hour
  • Employee Assistance Program offering free confidential support for personal or work-related challenges such as stress, mental health, family issues or financial concerns. 8 confidential sessions per issue per year available to you and your immediate family. 
  • Secure Your Future: Benefit from a strong retirement plan through the Public Employees Retirement System of Idaho (PERSI), so you can feel confident about your future.


What you'll do: 

  • Assist customers with unloading waste and answering questions.
  • Direct traffic and guide vehicles to proper disposal areas.
  • Inspect incoming loads to ensure compliance with regulations, keeping sites clean, safe, and hazard-free.
  • Open and close facilities and securing sites.
  • Monitor for fire and safety risks (and responding when needed)
  • Perform general maintenance (clean-up, snow removal, debris clearing)
  • Operate heavy equipment like forklifts (at transfer stations)
  • Lead and direct community service or labor crews.


Do you qualify? 

  • Do you have a high school diploma or a general education degree (GED)?
  • Do you have a minimum of (1) year’s related work experience?
  • Do you possess or have the ability to obtain a Driver’s License and are insurable and bondable?
  • You must have reliable personal transportation to commute to any of the designated work sites.


This is the job for you if: 

  • You have exceptional customer service skills, and you enjoy working with the public.
  • You have experience in maintaining grounds and facilities.
  • You have experience collecting fees and using a cash register.
  • You are willing to assist customers with unloading items from their vehicles and quickly respond to public issues and inquiries.
  • You have experience with light power equipment such as weed trimmers and sprayers, fire extinguishers, power hand tools and chainsaws.
  • You have experience operating and maintaining specialized equipment, which may include forklifts or being willing to learn.
  • You can work some weekends.
  • You enjoy working in outdoor facilities.
  • Take a closer look at the full job description to see if this role is the right fit for you.


Why You’ll Love Working Here:

You’ll be working in Kootenai County, one of the most picturesque places in northern Idaho! Nestled among scenic mountains and over 20 pristine lakes, our county is an outdoor enthusiast's dream. Located in Coeur d'Alene, you’ll enjoy a low crime rate, access to stunning natural beauty, and a peaceful, friendly community—making it the ideal place to work and live.  


Ready to Apply?

Visit our online application page  Kootenai County Employment Opportunities to submit your application, cover letter and resume. Open Until filed!


Candidates for employment must successfully complete the County's pre-employment and drug screening. 


Questions? Reach out to our Human Resources team at (208) 446-1640 or email kcrecruit@kcgov.us.


Equal Opportunity Employer/Vets Preference/Drug-Free Workplace

Apply