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Forest Fire Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

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Forest Fire information

See Rhode Island salary details

$30.4K

$103.4K

$179.2K

How much do forest fire jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for forest fire in Rhode Island is $103,393.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,400.00 and $121,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forest firefighter?

Forest firefighters, also known as wildland firefighters, are professionals trained to combat and manage fires that occur in forests, grasslands, and other wild areas. Their responsibilities include suppressing wildfires, creating fire lines, conducting controlled burns, and assisting in evacuation efforts to protect people, wildlife, and natural resources. Forest firefighters often work in challenging outdoor conditions and may use specialized equipment and techniques to control and prevent the spread of fires. They also participate in fire prevention education and post-fire recovery operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a forest firefighter?

To thrive as a Forest Firefighter, you need strong physical fitness, knowledge of fire behavior, and usually completion of specialized training programs such as S-130/S-190 Wildland Firefighter certification. Familiarity with fire suppression tools, GPS navigation, and communication systems is essential for effective operations. Teamwork, quick decision-making, and resilience under pressure are crucial soft skills in this high-risk environment. These capabilities are vital for protecting lives, property, and natural resources while ensuring safety during wildfire incidents.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in forest fire management, and how can they prepare for them?

Professionals in forest fire management often face unpredictable and rapidly changing conditions, including extreme weather, difficult terrain, and long hours during peak fire season. Effective teamwork, strong communication skills, and physical fitness are crucial for overcoming these challenges. Preparation involves regular training, staying up-to-date with the latest firefighting techniques, and maintaining readiness for deployment at short notice. Additionally, professionals must be adaptable and able to make quick decisions to ensure both personal safety and the protection of natural resources.

What is the difference between Forest Fire vs Firefighter?

AspectForest FireFirefighter
Primary RolePreventing, managing, and suppressing wildfires in forested areasResponding to various fires, including structural and wildfires, in different environments
Required CertificationsWildfire suppression training, firefighting certifications, possibly forestry or environmental trainingFirefighter certification, EMT/paramedic licenses, rescue training
Work EnvironmentForests, wilderness areas, outdoor terrainsUrban, suburban, and rural areas, including buildings and outdoor scenes
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, forestry services, environmental organizationsFire departments, emergency services, government agencies

While both roles involve firefighting skills, a Forest Fire specialist focuses on wildfires in natural settings, requiring specific wildfire training. Firefighters handle a broader range of fire emergencies across various environments. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What do I need to become a forest fire fighter?

To become a forest firefighter, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, physical fitness, and training in wildfire suppression techniques. Certifications such as Basic Wildland Firefighter Training and first aid are often required, along with the ability to work in challenging outdoor environments and irregular schedules.

What are popular job titles related to Forest Fire jobs in Rhode Island?

For Forest Fire jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forest Fire jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Forest Fire jobs in Rhode Island are:

Forest Fire jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forest Fire job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, 48% Part Time, and 7% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,393 per year, or $49.7 per hour.

SEASONAL FOREST FIRE INTERN

Providence, RI • On-site

State of Rhode Island
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 50 rated states

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents

Learn more about State of Rhode Islandexternal

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Seasonal Forest Fire Intern

The State is accepting online applications for available Seasonal Forest Fire Intern positions.

Illustrative Examples of Work Performed

Assist in delivering the Forest Fire Program to promote resilient landscapes and fire-adapted communities. This applicant will be required to assist fire staff with manual and technical tasks including, but not limited to, Firehose testing, cleaning and delivery/pickup; Fire equipment inventory and maintenance; Forest data collection, compilation, and recording; Conduct wildfire risk and hazard assessments. Training for required tasks as needed.

Required Qualifications for Appointment

Degree in Forestry/Forest Management, (Forest) Ecology, OR similar biological science, OR be currently enrolled in college and having had courses in those disciplines OR have equivalent field experience. Must have working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook. Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license. Applicant must be able to work outdoors, often in varying weather and environmental conditions. This position requires a commitment of a 35-hour work week, occasionally on a weekend, from spring through the fall, with some flexibility with scheduled work hours and start/end dates. Must be 18 years of age to apply for this position.

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