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Forest Fire Equipment Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sierra Pacific Industries

Equipment Operator

Quincy, CA · On-site

$35.43/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Heavy Equipment Operators earn $35.43 per hour We train and promote from within Excellent low-cost ... Our forests are sustainably managed under a 100-year plan by Registered Professional Foresters ...

Binderholz

Heavy Equipment Operator

Live Oak, FL · On-site

The Heavy Equipment Operator plays a critical role in the agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting industry by safely and efficiently operating various types of heavy machinery to support land ...

Lake Forest

Firefighter/Paramedic

Lake Forest, IL

$81K - $117K/yr

Apply to be the next member of the Lake Forest Fire Department. Join the Lake Forest Fire ... Continuous Training: participate in training related to firefighting methods, vehicle and equipment ...

FECON

Equipment Operator - Seasonal

Lebanon, OH

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Development by operating forestry, construction, and land management equipment to execute product testing and validation activities. This role assists in the setup, execution, and documentation of ...

Fecon

Equipment Operator - Seasonal

Lebanon, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $23.75/hr

Job Title: Equipment Operator - Seasonal Manager Title R&D Supervisor FLSA Status: Non-Exempt ... Operates forestry mulchers, skid steers, excavators, and related equipment to execute product test ...

City of Raleigh, NC

Equipment Operator

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$48K - $68K/yr

... operating equipment and tools, and participating in organizational events. Work is conducted in a ... or forested areas. May be required to work extended shifts including shifts outside of normal ...

State of Mississippi

Forest Ranger I - Area 32

Jackson, MS · On-site

$30K - $40K/yr

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mississippi Forestry Commission (MFC) has been a leader in the protection, management, and ... equipment, construction and maintenance of fire breaks, assisting in timber marking, loading and ...

Distinctive Tree Care

Equipment Operator

South Windsor, CT

$25 - $28/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Minimum of 2 years' experience required, with proven expertise in operating heavy equipment, ideally in tree service, forestry, or land clearing, and specific experience with skid steers.

State of Mississippi

Forest Ranger I - Area 31

Jackson, MS · On-site

$30K - $40K/yr

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mississippi Forestry Commission (MFC) has been a leader in the protection, management, and ... equipment, construction and maintenance of fire breaks, assisting in timber marking, loading and ...

MyFlorida

SENIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR

Macclenny, FL

$40K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Provides assistance under the supervision of the forest area supervisor which may include: timber ... This position has assigned wildland fire duties and as such must possess qualifications appropriate ...

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Forest Fire Equipment Operator information

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How much do forest fire equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for forest fire equipment operator in the United States is $22.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forest fire equipment operator?

To thrive as a Forest Fire Equipment Operator, you need strong mechanical aptitude, experience operating heavy machinery, and a solid understanding of wildfire behavior, often backed by specialized training or certification in wildland firefighting. Familiarity with equipment such as bulldozers, water tenders, and chainsaws, along with knowledge of safety protocols and communication systems, is essential. Teamwork, resilience under pressure, and the ability to make quick decisions in stressful situations are critical soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, efficient operations and effective support during high-risk wildfire suppression efforts.

What are some common challenges forest fire equipment operators face in the field?

Forest Fire Equipment Operators often work in rapidly changing and hazardous conditions, which require them to adapt quickly to shifting fire behavior and rugged terrain. Navigating heavy equipment through dense forests, steep slopes, or low-visibility environments can be physically demanding and mentally taxing. Operators also need to stay vigilant about safety for themselves and their crew, especially when working long shifts or during high fire activity. These challenges are often balanced by a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork as operators closely collaborate with firefighters and incident command staff to contain and control wildfires.

What is a forest fire equipment operator?

A Forest Fire Equipment Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining heavy machinery, such as bulldozers, water tenders, and other specialized equipment, to control and contain wildfires. They create firebreaks, clear vegetation, and assist firefighting crews in suppressing fires. Operators must be skilled in handling equipment under hazardous conditions and often work long hours in emergency situations. Their role is crucial in minimizing fire damage and protecting both natural and human-made environments.

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Forest Fire Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forest Fire Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,279 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Forestry Equipment Operator

Markit! Forestry Management LLC

Pagosa Springs, CO • On-site

$22 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Description:  This position will help Markit! execute various forestry projects and be responsible for assisting in the proper maintenance, preparation and operation of all tools and equipment including hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and heavy machinery.  This position will report to and work closely with Project Foremen and Superintendent.

Location: Projects may be located throughout the State of Arizona and surrounding states.

Travel:  50-75% but may be up to 100% depending on the project assignment.  Lodging and per diem provided as well as adequate time off for rest.

Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Operate Markit!’s heavy forestry equipment (e.g.  Masticator, Tracked Skidder, Dozer, Excavator, Chipper) as appropriate for each project.
  • Perform chainsaw felling operations, including directional felling, limbing, and bucking.
  • Manage slash operations, including lop-and-scatter, chipping, and hauling.
  • Perform road work, excavation, lifting work, site clean-up, etc.
  • Control erosion by contour felling and LEB creation and installation.
  • Responsible for completing and submitting proper daily inspections and maintenance on assigned machine(s), requesting any necessary repairs/maintenance from the Fleet Department.
  • Adhere to Markit!’s safety standards and promote safety culture among crew members, including the proper use of machinery and equipment and resolve problems when they arise.
  • Participate in weekly job site maintenance training conducted by the Foreman.
  • Perform equipment repairs/maintenance.
  • Prepare to spend multiple overnights at project sites, as necessary.
  • General forestry labor, as necessary and appropriate.

Requirements:

  • 1- 3 years of experience in operating heavy machinery, forestry industry preferred.
  • 18 years of age or older.
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
  • Must pass pre-employment background check.
  • Ability to work in a team and independently.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Have the ability and desire to perform strenuous outdoor work on rough terrain in a variety of inclement weather conditions.
  • Quick and able learner with strong leadership skills and a keen eye for details and good decision-making and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work under pressure and stress and handle emergency situations.
  • Effectively complete work projects on time.
  • Ability to utilize safety procedures.
  • Physical ability to bend, squat and lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Technical skills and ability to use a smart phone and/or tablet.
  • Must have reliable transportation to, from and while working on the job site.
  • Reliable transportation to and from work.

Language:

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

Job Type:

  • Full-time, year-round work with minimal down days.

Benefits:

  • Competitive wages.
  • 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.

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