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Forest Service Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

District Ranger

Clifton, AZ ยท On-site

$89K - $138K/yr

The Forest Service may use certain incentives and hiring flexibilities, currently offered by the Federal government, to attract highly qualified candidates. Additional Information is available on the ...

Showing results 41-60

Forest Service information

See Arizona salary details

$30.8K

$65.2K

$110.4K

How much do forest service jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for forest service in Arizona is $65,205.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $75,000.00 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 Arizona?

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

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

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

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Forest Service jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Forest Service job openings:

Infographic showing various Forest Service job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,205 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

Wildland Firefighter (Airtanker Base Manager)

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service

Hereford, AZ โ€ข On-site

$67K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

These positions are located at USDA Forest Service Units.
Incumbent serves as Airtanker Base Manager. Responsibilities include: management of aerial retardant base in support of wildland fire suppression activities, oversight and support to various types of aircraft assigned to the base, and management of airtanker base facilities.
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-08: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GW-07 grade level in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Inspected, mixed and loaded retardant chemicals to assure quality control and not to exceed aircraft limitations; Dispatched fixed and rotor wing aircraft after determining flight information; Kept records of incident and accident reporting, retardant deliveries, consumption levels, and/or retardant costs per operation; Completed daily flight invoices and contract daily diaries.
For the GW-09: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GW-08 grade level in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Assisted in planning, scheduling, and monitoring all flights out of a base for resource and fire related projects; Assisted in providing facility maintenance oversight and procurement for repairs and improvements; Assisted in managing the safe and efficient loading of properly mixed retardants into airtankers; Assisted in preparing and directing the implementation of airtanker base operational plans; Assisted in administering aircraft and retardant contracts.
Selective Placement Factors:
Incumbent is required to have and maintain Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) qualifications as an Airtanker Base Manager (ATBM).
Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) and Forest Service - Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) qualifications must be met by the time of selection. Most recent IQCS master record and/or signed Agency Certified task book must be attached to your application. If you are selected, you may be required to submit an updated IQCS master record or signed Agency Certified task book as proof of attainment of IFPM requirements prior to a final verbal offer.
In order to be considered for this position, copies of your Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) Master Record (or equivalent training documents) which contain documented proof of the certification or attainment of the IFPM Selective Placement Factor for this position MUST be attached to your application. Red cards are not acceptable documentation. Currency Requirement: Required to maintain currency once hired into the position. Currency of NWCG qualifications is not required for selection. If not currently qualified, the applicant must provide documented evidence that they have been fully qualified in the past, and are able to regain currency within one year of being hired. Failure to provide this documentation will result in disqualification.
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 specialized experience.Employment Type: OTHER