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Forest Fire Inspector Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forestry Technician

Chino Valley, AZ · On-site

$22.98 - $25.12/hr

... forest restoration projects; and ensuring fire and life safety through permitting, plan reviews and building inspections. Forestry Technician Job Location: Address: 1133 West Road 3 North Chino ...

... forest restoration projects; and ensuring fire and life safety through permitting, plan reviews and building inspections. Fire Crew Captain Job Location: Address: 3650 Lake Mary Road Flagstaff, AZ ...

FIRE CAPTAIN - ELY

Carson City, NV · On-site

$59K - $88K/yr

Job Summary The Nevada Division of Forestry (NDF) is recruiting for one Fire Captain position ... Supervise and/or participate in fire prevention activities; inspect areas designated for prescribed ...

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Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$14.33 - $20.53/hr

... in forest restoration projects; and ensuring fire and life safety through permitting, plan reviews and building inspections. Job Location: Address: 1110 W. Washington Street, Suite 500 Phoenix, AZ ...

FIREFIGHTER 1 - ELKO

Carson City, NV · On-site

$48K - $71K/yr

Supervise and/or participate in fire prevention activities; inspect areas designated for prescribed ... Enforce forestry and fire laws and prosecute offenders; investigate complaints of illegal burning ...

Job Page

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$21.14 - $29.49/hr

DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY AND FIRE MANAGEMENT Manage and reduce fire risk to protect Arizona's people ... Perform inspections on pre sale work performed by district staff and contractors as needed to ...

Forester

Aberdeen, WA · On-site

$75K - $113K/yr

... fire protection and contract administration. Other responsibilities include, but are not limited to ... Advocate, model and inspect for safe work practices * Fertilizer and forest inventory sampling ...

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Forest Fire Inspector information

See salary details

$24.5K

$54.9K

$99K

How much do forest fire inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 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 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.

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.

Are fire inspector jobs in demand?

Fire inspector jobs are expected to grow faster than average due to increased emphasis on fire safety and building inspections. Demand is driven by new construction, code enforcement, and the need for fire prevention education, often requiring certification and knowledge of fire codes.

Can you become a fire inspector without being a firefighter?

Forest fire inspectors typically do not need to be firefighters, but they often have backgrounds in forestry, environmental science, or related fields. Certification or training in fire safety and inspection procedures is usually required, and experience with fire prevention tools and regulations can be beneficial.

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.

How to become a forest fire inspector?

To become a forest fire inspector, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with experience in forestry, firefighting, or environmental science. Relevant certifications, such as wildfire safety training or fire inspection licenses, may be required, and strong observation and communication skills are essential for the role.

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.

How hard is it to become a fire inspector?

Becoming a fire inspector typically requires a combination of experience as a firefighter, relevant education such as fire science or safety training, and certification from a recognized agency. The process involves passing written exams, practical assessments, and sometimes background checks, making it a career that demands specific skills and qualifications but is achievable with proper training and experience.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,939 per year, or $26.4 per hour.
Forestry Technician

Forestry Technician

The State of Arizona

Chino Valley, AZ • On-site

$22.98 - $25.12/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


State Of Arizona rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 50 rated states


Job description

Forestry Technician

Apply now Job No: 539070
Work Type: Full-time
Location: CHINO VALLEY
Categories: Forestry/Wildland Fire/Natural Resources

DEPARTMENT OF FORESTRY AND FIRE MANAGEMENT In partnership with local, county, state, and federal agencies, the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM) protects Arizona's people by: providing coordination and resource response for the suppression and management of wildland fire; delivering education to aid in wildland fire prevention; providing integrated management strategies, technical assistance and information through various Department programs; collaborating in forest restoration projects; and ensuring fire and life safety through permitting, plan reviews and building inspections.
Forestry Technician
Job Location:
Address: 1133 West Road 3 North
Chino Valley, AZ 86323
Posting Details:
Salary: $22.9807 - $25.1202 
Grade: 18
Closing Date: Open Until Filled
Job Summary:

The incumbent conducts natural resource inventories to evaluate condition, health, insect and disease damage, and presence of non-native and invasive species; assists Forester with data interpretation to design strategies that meet objectives pertaining to watershed improvement, forest health, and wildfire mitigation; comprehend and implement land management objectives as prescribed by a DFFM Forester; documents progress, performance, and contractual adherence of state contractors and forestry crews to report to district staff; designates and marks trees, identifies property boundaries and assists with the treatment unit layout of projects; respond to the needs of a diverse constituency; travel for extended periods throughout the State.

Job Duties:

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Monitor natural resource projects. Document the progress and effectiveness of the prescribed management treatments. Generate data to report outcomes, successes, and suggestions for future treatment entries.
  • Conduct natural resource surveys and inventories to inform treatment strategies pertaining to watershed improvement, forest health, and wildfire mitigation.
  • Provide technical assistance to DFFM staff and constituents related to forestry techniques, forest health, insect and disease impacts and hazardous fuels management.
  • Perform and assist Foresters in pre-treatment activities including harvest designation, identifying property boundaries, treatment unit boundary layout, equipment access, GPS, etc.
  • Drive on State business
  • Other duties as assigned
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (KSAs):

Knowledge of:

  • Natural resource management in forest ecology, rangeland management, restoration ecology, fire ecology, or similar field.
  • Basic analytical analysis techniques for data collection.
  • Microsoft Office Products, ArcGIS and other related software.
  • Environmental and cultural laws and regulations.

Skills in:

  • Quality communication skills, both oral and written.
  • Listening, as a key to effective communication.
  • Plant, insect and forest pathogen identification.
  • Data collection and analysis related to ecological monitoring.
  • Use of forestry field measurement instruments and programs.

Ability to:

  • Perform operations management and similar applied elements of forestry and/ or natural resource management.
  • Communicate clearly and effectively to DFFM staff, contractors, constituents, or similar.
  • Walk-on rugged and uneven terrain to perform layout and other pre-treatment activities efficiently and effectively.
  • Think critically and creatively.
  • Travel for extended periods throughout the State.
Selective Preference(s):

The ideal candidate for this position will have:
Bachelor of Science in Forestry, Environmental Science, Ecology or similar natural resource management program OR a minimum of 2-years of field work experience.

Pre-Employment Requirements:
  • A valid Arizona Driver's License.

Any employee operating a motor vehicle on State business must possess and retain a current, valid class-appropriate driver's license, complete all required training, and successfully pass all necessary driver's license record checks. The license must be current, unexpired, and neither revoked nor suspended. Employees who drive on state business are subject to driver's license
record checks, must maintain acceptable driving records, and must complete all required driver training. An employee who operates a personally owned vehicle on state business shall maintain the statutorily required liability insurance (see Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) R2-10-207.11).

If this position requires driving or the use of a vehicle as an essential function of the job to conduct State business, then the following requirements apply: Driver's License Requirements.

All newly hired State employees are subject to and must successfully complete the Electronic Employment Eligibility Verification Program (E-Verify).

Benefits:

The State of Arizona provides an excellent comprehensive benefits package including:

  • Affordable medical, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance plans.
  • Top-ranked retirement and long-term disability plans.
  • 10 paid holidays per year.
    Paid Parental Leave-Up to 12 weeks per year paid leave for newborn or newly-placed foster/adopted child (pilot program, learn more at hr.az.gov/family-leave-expansion).
  • Vacation time accrued at 4.00 hours bi-weekly for the first 3 years.
  • Sick time accrued at 3.70 hours bi-weekly.
  • Deferred compensation plan.
  • Wellness plans.
  • Tuition reimbursement eligible after one year of employment.

Learn more about the Paid Parental Leave program here. For a complete list of benefits provided by The State of Arizona, please visit our benefits page

Retirement:
  • Positions in this classification participate in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS).
  • Participation is a mandatory condition of employment for all employees who meet the eligibility and membership criteria as defined in statute.
  • Enrollment eligibility will become effective after 27 weeks of employment.
  • The current contribution rate is 12.00%
Contact Us:

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Selene Rojas at srojas@dffm.az.gov for assistance.
The State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation, such as a sign language interpreter or an alternative format by calling (623) 236-6664. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow sufficient time to arrange the accommodation.

Advertised: 24 Feb 2026 US Mountain Standard Time
Applications close:

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About State of Arizona

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

State of Arizona is not a conventional company, but the governmental structure presiding over the U.S. state of Arizona, headquartered in Phoenix, AZ. The State of Arizona operates within the industry of government administration and public services across various sectors including education, health, public safety, transportation, and economic services. These services are aimed to ensure the security, prosperity, and well-being of the Arizona citizens and communities. Founded on February 14, 1912, when Arizona became the 48th state to join the Union, the State of Arizona is committed to providing people-centric, efficient, and effective government. Its mission is to improve the quality of life for all Arizonans by providing a secure environment and advancing the state's economy.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Phoenix, AZ, US

Year founded

1912