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Forest Fire Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... forest restoration projects; and ensuring fire and life safety through permitting, plan reviews and building inspections. Deputy Fire Marshal Job Location: Address: 1110 W. Washington, Suite 500 ...

... in forest restoration projects; and ensuring fire and life safety through permitting, plan reviews and building inspections. Deputy Fire Marshal Job Location: Address: 316 W. White Mountain Blvd., ...

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Forest Fire Inspector information

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$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do forest fire inspector jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for forest fire inspector in the United States is $54,939.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $63,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Forest Fire Inspector, you need knowledge of fire behavior, forestry management, and fire prevention techniques, often supported by a degree in forestry or a related field and relevant fire service experience. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, fire weather monitoring tools, and certification in firefighting or fire inspection protocols is typical. Strong observational skills, attention to detail, and clear communication are essential soft skills for effective reporting and coordination with emergency teams. These abilities are crucial for accurately assessing fire risks, ensuring public safety, and efficiently responding to wildfire threats.

What are some typical challenges Forest Fire Inspectors face in the field?

Forest Fire Inspectors often encounter challenges such as working in remote and rugged terrain, unpredictable weather conditions, and the need for rapid decision-making during high-risk situations. They must balance thorough inspections with the urgency of preventing potential fire hazards, often collaborating closely with local fire departments, landowners, and government agencies. Staying updated on the latest fire prevention technologies and regulations is also crucial, making adaptability and continuous learning essential for success in this role.

What are Forest Fire Inspectors?

Forest Fire Inspectors are professionals responsible for preventing, detecting, and investigating forest fires. They patrol forested areas, enforce fire safety regulations, inspect fire-prone sites, and educate the public about fire prevention. Their work helps to minimize the risk of wildfires, protect natural resources, and ensure public safety. In addition to inspections, they may assist in firefighting efforts and coordinate with other emergency response teams during fire incidents.

What is the difference between Forest Fire Inspector vs Wildfire Prevention Technician?

AspectForest Fire InspectorWildfire Prevention Technician
CertificationsFire safety certifications, possibly forestry or environmental certificationsFire safety certifications, environmental or forestry training
Work EnvironmentForests, parks, and rural areas during fire seasonPublic outreach, educational sites, and field inspections
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, forestry departments, parksEnvironmental agencies, fire prevention organizations

Both roles focus on fire prevention and safety, often requiring similar certifications and working in outdoor environments. The Forest Fire Inspector typically conducts inspections and enforces fire regulations in forested areas, while the Wildfire Prevention Technician emphasizes community outreach and education to prevent wildfires. Both positions are vital in wildfire management and often overlap in responsibilities and skills.

More about Forest Fire Inspector jobs
What cities are hiring for Forest Fire Inspector jobs? Cities with the most Forest Fire Inspector job openings:
What states have the most Forest Fire Inspector jobs? States with the most job openings for Forest Fire Inspector jobs include:
Infographic showing various Forest Fire Inspector job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Wildland Firefighter (Forest-Fire Planner)

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service

Cascade, ID โ€ข On-site

$72.83K/yr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

These positions are located in USDA Forest Service Unit.
The primary purpose of the position is to provide leadership, and oversight in wildland fire planning on one or more National Forests or Grasslands.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION for Regional contacts.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-09: You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-07 in the Federal service. Examples of Specialized Experience are: Assisted in developing long and/or short-range plans for fire and/or aviation management; Participated in functional reviews and annual readiness inspections for fire management; Assisted in developing, coordinating, and consolidating fire management plans needed to meet fire program objectives; and Utilized systems for fire planning and analysis such as specialized software and modeling, e.g., databases, graphic tools, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications.
For the GW-11: You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-09 in the Federal service. Examples of Specialized Experience are: Assisted in developing and evaluating prescribed fire plans or fire management plans; Performed data collection and evaluation of fire hazard risks; Utilized fire planning analysis systems, models, and decision support systems; and Provided analysis and advice to resolve fire and aviation management issues.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a secondary firefighter position under 5 USC 8336 (CSRS) and 8412(d) (FERS). Prior wildland firefighting experience is required. There is no age limit for entry into secondary positions. Firefighter retirement coverage of the incumbent depends upon his or her individual work history.
To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.Education:There is no substitution of education for this position.Employment Type: OTHER