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Forest Service Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

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All JobsForest Service JobsForest Service Jobs in Alabama

Forest Service information

See Alabama salary details

$29.9K

$63.4K

$107.4K

How much do forest service jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for forest service in Alabama is $63,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,100.00 and $73,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the Forest Service?

The Forest Service is an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture responsible for managing public lands in national forests and grasslands. Its mission includes sustaining the health, diversity, and productivity of these lands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The Forest Service oversees activities like wildfire management, reforestation, conservation, recreation, and the protection of wildlife habitats. Additionally, it works with states, local communities, and private landowners to promote sustainable forest management practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Forest Service?

To thrive in the Forest Service, you need a background in forestry, environmental science, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or specialized training. Familiarity with GIS software, fire management tools, and safety certifications such as wildland firefighting are commonly required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help individuals excel in managing diverse tasks and responding to emergencies. These skills are crucial to ensure the sustainable management of natural resources and the safety of both the public and the environment.

What are some of the main challenges faced by employees working in the Forest Service, and how are they typically addressed?

Forest Service employees often encounter challenges such as working in remote locations, unpredictable weather conditions, and balancing conservation efforts with public land use. To address these, teams emphasize strong communication, thorough safety training, and robust support systems. Collaboration across multidisciplinary teams is common, and employees have access to ongoing professional development to help them adapt to evolving environmental regulations and public needs. This supportive environment helps staff manage challenges and grow within the organization.

What is the difference between Forest Service vs Forest Technician?

AspectForest ServiceForest Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires certifications in forestry or related fields
Work EnvironmentNational forests, parks, and public lands; outdoor, physically demandingFieldwork in forests, parks, and conservation areas; outdoor and hands-on
Employer & IndustryU.S. Forest Service, government agencyU.S. Forest Service, state agencies, or private contractors
Common Search & ComparisonForest Service vs Forest Technician

Both roles work within the U.S. Forest Service and involve outdoor work, but Forest Service is a broad agency position, while Forest Technicians focus on specific field tasks like data collection and trail maintenance. The qualifications are similar, emphasizing outdoor skills and certifications. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right fit in forestry careers.

Can you work for the Forest Service without a degree?

The Forest Service offers some entry-level positions that do not require a college degree, such as fire fighters, laborers, and certain seasonal roles. However, many professional and technical positions typically require relevant education or specialized training, and certifications like CPR or first aid may be necessary. Having relevant skills and experience can also improve job prospects in the Forest Service.

What are the most commonly searched types of Forest Service jobs in Alabama?

The most popular types of Forest Service jobs in Alabama are:

What are popular job titles related to Forest Service jobs in Alabama?

For Forest Service jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Forest Service jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Forest Service jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Forest Service jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Forest Service job openings:

Forest Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forest Service job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,420 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Wildland Firefighter (Helicopter Manager)

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service

Heflin, AL • On-site

$67K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Manage permanent and temporary helibases and oversee helicopter operations in support of prescribed fire, fire suppression, emergency incidents, and resource management functions.

  • Plan, direct, and coordinate helicopter activities related to fire management and resource support, including assessing readiness and monitoring aviation activities.

  • Administer aircraft contracts, including contract language changes, and maintain reports and records for helicopter use.

Job description

These positions will be located at a USDA Forest Service Unit.
This position manages permanent and temporary helibases, provides contract administration for, and plans and directs helicopter operations in support of, prescribed fire, fire suppression, emergency incidents and resource management functions.
See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section 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. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-08: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-07) in the Federal Service; OR two full years (36 semester/ 54 quarter hours) of successfully completed graduate level education or master's degree if the coursework is directly related to the work of the position (such as forestry, range management, agriculture); OR combinations of graduate level education that is directly related to the position (in excess of 18 semester/ 27 quarter hours) and specialized experience. The education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university.
Examples of specialized experience: Provided input into long range and broad planning efforts to comply with USDA Forest Service policies, procedures, and objectives. Assessed readiness to meet short term project and emergency needs. Recommended forest aviation needs; ordered personnel, equipment, and supplies; directed and monitored aviation activities related to prescribed fire, fire suppression and resource management. Completed and maintained reports and records for helicopter use.
For the GW-09: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-08) in the Federal Service; OR two full years (36 semester/ 54 quarter hours) of successfully completed graduate level education or master's degree if the coursework is directly related to the work of the position (such as forestry, range management, agriculture); OR combinations of graduate level education that is directly related to the position (in excess of 18 semester/ 27 quarter hours) and specialized experience. The education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university.
Examples of specialized experience: Assisted in administering aircraft contracts, contract language changes, and in completing related reports, records, and payment documents. Assisted in planning and coordinating aviation support and helicopter personnel in support of prescribed fire, fire suppression and resource management. Participated as an instructor or coordinator of fire aviation training programs.
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.
WORK CAPACITY TEST (WCT) for Wildland Firefighters: This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the MODERATE level is a condition of employment.
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:See QUALIFICATIONS section for education requirements.Employment Type: OTHER

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