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Forest Service Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

OMS Group

Registered Professional Forester

Auburn, CA · On-site

$35.47 - $50/hr

... Forest Service (USFS), and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) representatives in his/her assigned area. • Timely resolve customer complaints. • As deemed necessary by client's representative, the ...

OMS Group

Registered Professional Forester

Redding, CA · On-site

$35.47 - $50/hr

... Forest Service (USFS), and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) representatives in his/her assigned area. • Timely resolve customer complaints. • As deemed necessary by client's representative, the ...

Mountain G. Enterprises

... Forest Service (USFS), and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) representatives in his/her assigned area. * Timely resolve customer complaints. * As deemed necessary by PG&E's Representative, the RPF may ...

Forest Home

Service Technician

Forest Falls, CA · On-site

$18/hr

... service. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Performs pest control of the facility as assigned ... Uphold and support the Mission, Vision and Core Values of Forest Home. * Ability to hear from God ...

Forest Home

Service Technician

Forest Falls, CA · On-site

$18/hr

... service. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Performs pest control of the facility as assigned ... Uphold and support the Mission, Vision and Core Values of Forest Home. * Ability to hear from God ...

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All JobsForest Service JobsForest Service Jobs in California

Forest Service information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$69.1K

$116.9K

How much do forest service jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for forest service in California is $69,054.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,300.00 and $79,400.00 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 California?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Forest Service jobs?

Cities in California with the most Forest Service job openings:

Forest Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forest Service job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,054 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Field Leader - Angeles National Forest Restoration Corps

Career Site

Arcadia, CA • On-site

$850/wk

Temporary

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Conservation Corps - 2026 Western Corps Angeles National Forest Restoration Team

Project Leader: Fall 2026 Angeles National Forest Restoration Team Angeles National Forest - Los Angeles Gateway Ranger District

Position Summary

Conservation Begins Here.

Are you ready to lead a high impact conservation project, mentor emerging conservationists, and work closely with U.S. Forest Service partners to protect sensitive postfire landscapes? Join the Student Conservation Association (SCA) as the Project Leader for our Fall 2026 Angeles National Forest Restoration Team - a role that blends leadership, logistics, technical fieldwork, and meaningful ecological restoration.

You'll guide a 4person crew through the installation of approximately 700 feet of metal postandcable OHV barriers, helping prevent illegal offhighway vehicle (OHV) access and supporting long-term habitat recovery in one of the most heavily impacted regions of the Angeles National Forest.

Schedule

Position Dates: 9/13/2026 - 11/25/2026

Leader Preseason: 9/13/2026 - 9/17/2026

Crew Member Training:

  • Crew Member Training: 9/14 - 9/17
  • Wilderness First Aid: 9/18 - 9/19
  • Conservation Work Skills: 9/20 - 9/24

Field Season: 9/28/2026 - 11/19/2026

Crew Members Depart: 11/21/2026

Leader Postseason Wrap Up: 11/23/2026 - 11/25/2026

Total Term: 11 weeks

Location

Angeles National Forest - Los Angeles Gateway Ranger District

Primary project sites are located within the Drinkwater Flat OHV Area and surrounding postfire landscapes.

Crew camping will be based at Castaic Lake State Recreation Area or a comparable front country site.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

These are the essential functions of the role:

Leadership & Crew Management

  • Supervise, mentor, and support a crew of 3 Crew Members
  • Foster a positive and safetyfocused crew
  • Facilitate daily check-ins, debriefs, and conflict resolution
  • Lead training on tool use, safety, field protocols, and project expectations

Project Implementation

  • Coordinate daily with U.S. Forest Service staff
  • Install metal postandcable barriers according to partner specifications
  • Oversee digging post holes, mixing/pouring cement, setting posts, and tensioning cable
  • Manage material staging, tool inventory, and equipment maintenance
  • Ensure accurate GPS mapping and documentation of installed barriers

Logistics & Administration

  • Develop weekly schedules and work plans
  • Conduct vehicle inspections, grocery planning, and camp logistics
  • Maintain daily and weekly work logs, before/after photos, and partner reports
  • Uphold SCA risk management protocols, including twice daily checkins
  • Complete endofseason reporting and project wrap up

Marginal Duties

These tasks support the role but are not essential functions:

  • Support budget tracking and purchasing
  • Coordinate with other SCA teams or partners as needed
  • Assist with emergency response or incident reporting
  • Drive crew vehicle and trailer

Required Qualifications

  • Must be 21 or older by the start date
  • US work authorization
  • Valid driver's license for 3+ years and MVR that meets SCA standards
  • Experience leading teams in outdoor, conservation, or service settings
  • Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
  • Perform manual labor for up to 10 hours/day, lift 40+ lbs, and hike 3-5 miles/day
  • Work in challenging outdoor conditions, including:High heat (90-105F),Santa Ana winds, dust, cement exposure, and rocky soils

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous SCA leadership experience or similar conservation leadership role
  • Experience with construction, fencing, trail work, or restoration projects
  • Familiarity with GPS mapping
  • Experience coordinating with agency partners
  • Wilderness First Responder or higher (WFR provided as part of training program)
  • Trailer towing experience

Hours

This crew follows a Monday-Thursday, 10hour/day schedule during the field season.

Preseason and postseason schedules vary based on planning, partner meetings, and derig needs.

Living Accommodations

The crew will camp for the duration of the program, primarily at Castaic Lake State Recreation Area or a comparable site. Amenities may include:

  • Restrooms
  • Potable water
  • Showers (availability varies)

Expect limited access to electricity and cell service.

SCA provides group gear (tents, stoves, water filters, etc.); leaders bring personal items (sleeping bag, pad, clothing, mess kit).

A crew vehicle and trailer are provided for transportation and storage.

Compensation

  • $850 weekly living allowance (leader rate)
  • $1,000 travel allowance ( paid in first paycheck, paid in last paycheck)
  • Meals provided during fieldwork
  • $1000 Retention Bonus (for eligible returning leaders)
  • $200 Uniform Credit (for eligible returning leaders)
  • All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

Personal Vehicle Information

A personal vehicle is not required for this position. Project Leaders are responsible for the SCAissued crew vehicle, including picking it up from the SCA program hub at the start of the season, ensuring it is properly maintained throughout the program, and returning it to the hub at the end of the season.

Leaders may bring a personal vehicle for offtime use;SCA is not responsible for fuel, parking, maintenance, or security of personal vehicles.

Additional Benefits

  • Wilderness First Responder certification
  • Conservation Work Skills training
  • Defensive driver training and trailer training
  • Uniform package including daypack, work shirts, water bladder, and more
  • Group gear provided (tents, stoves, water filters, etc.)

Equal Opportunity Statement

SCA is an equal opportunity employer. Selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and performance, without unlawful discrimination.

Apply