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Forest Service Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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All JobsForest Service JobsForest Service Jobs in Riverside, CA

Forest Service information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$34.4K

$73K

$123.6K

How much do forest service jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for forest service in Riverside, CA is $72,998.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,200.00 and $84,000.00 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 popular job titles related to Forest Service jobs in Riverside, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Forest Service jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Forest Service jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Forest Service jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Forest Service job openings:

Forest Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forest Service job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,998 per year, or $35.1 per hour.

Wildland Firefighter (Air Tactical Group Supervisor ATGS)

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service

San Bernardino, CA

$67K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

These positions will be located at a USDA Forest Service Unit.
The incumbent serves as an Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS) for an Air Attack platform covering most interagency lands in and adjacent to the National Forest.
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.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements.
For the GW-08: You must have one year specialized experience at least equivalent to the GW-07 in the Federal service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Assisted with the direction of air tactical operations for wildland fires suppression by evaluating aircraft needs to perform tactical missions, establishing target identification and/or navigation requirements; Assisted with the inspection of aviation activities, notifying ground crew of tactics, and/or ordering additional air resources as needed; Participated in aviation activities to support contract management, aviation training, and/or safety programs.
For the GW-09: You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-08 in the Federal service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Assisted with the direction of air tactical operations for wildland fires suppression by providing aerial supervision and/or establishing priorities for initial and extended attacks; Evaluated aircraft needs to perform tactical missions, establishing target identification and navigation requirements; Performed contract management, aviation training, and safety program support activities for an aviation program.
Selective Placement Factors:
Successful completion of the NWCG Core Requirement of Division/Group Supervisor (DIVS) OR Incident Commander Type 3 (ICT3).
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.
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 position covered under the special retirement provisions of 5 USC 8336(c) for the Civil Service Retirement System and of 5 USC 8412(d) for the Federal Employees Retirement System.
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

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