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Forestry Firefighter Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Environmental Protection, Forestry, State Lands, State Parks, Water Resources, Outdoor Recreation ... The Nevada Division of Forestry (NDF) is recruiting for one Firefighter 2 position located at the ...

Firefighter/Paramedic

Lake Forest, IL · On-site

$81K - $117K/yr

Description NOW HIRING - THE NEXT GENERATION OF LAKE FOREST FIREFIGHTERS *IMMEDIATE OPENINGS AVAILABLE* Applications will be processed as they are received NTN Testing Deadline: Due at time of ...

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Forestry Firefighter information

See salary details

$31K

$48.9K

$69K

How much do forestry firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for forestry firefighter in the United States is $48,932.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some of the most common challenges Forestry Firefighters face during wildfire season?

Forestry Firefighters often encounter unpredictable weather, rapidly changing fire behavior, and rugged terrain during wildfire season. These challenges require quick decision-making and effective teamwork to ensure both safety and successful fire suppression. Additionally, long hours, physical exertion, and exposure to smoke and heat are common, making stamina and mental resilience crucial for the role. Collaboration with other agencies and clear communication are also vital to coordinate large-scale responses effectively.

Is it worth it to become a wildland firefighter?

A forestry firefighter, or wildland firefighter, plays a critical role in wildfire suppression and prevention, often working in challenging outdoor environments with physical demands and safety risks. The job offers opportunities for seasonal work, skill development, and certifications such as S-130 and S-190, but it also involves irregular hours and exposure to hazards. Whether it is worth it depends on personal interest in firefighting, outdoor work, and willingness to accept the physical and safety challenges involved.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forestry Firefighter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forestry Firefighter, you need strong physical fitness, knowledge of fire behavior, and basic emergency medical training, typically supported by a high school diploma and completion of specialized wildfire training programs. Familiarity with firefighting tools, chainsaws, GPS navigation systems, and certifications such as S-130/S-190 are common requirements. Teamwork, resilience under pressure, and effective communication are vital soft skills for success in high-risk, rapidly changing environments. These competencies are crucial for ensuring crew safety, effective wildfire suppression, and the protection of natural resources and communities.

What is the highest paying wildland firefighter job?

The highest paying wildland firefighter jobs are typically supervisory roles such as Fire Management Officers or Incident Commanders, who oversee large-scale fire operations and may earn higher salaries due to increased responsibilities and experience. These positions often require advanced certifications, leadership skills, and extensive field experience, and they can be stationed in high-cost-of-living areas or assigned to federal agencies like the U.S. Forest Service or BLM.

Is 40 too old to be a wildland firefighter?

Forestry firefighters can be of various ages, and many departments value experience and physical fitness over age. While the job requires good physical condition, individuals up to their 40s and beyond often successfully serve, provided they meet fitness and certification requirements such as wildfire suppression training and CPR. Age alone is not a strict barrier to becoming a wildland firefighter.

Do wildfire fighters make good money?

Wildfire fighters, including forestry firefighters, typically earn an hourly wage that varies by experience, location, and agency, with seasonal and overtime pay often included. Entry-level positions may start around minimum wage, while experienced firefighters with certifications and specialized skills can earn higher salaries, sometimes supplemented by hazard pay or overtime. Overall, the pay is generally considered moderate compared to other emergency services, but it can increase with experience and additional responsibilities.

What is the difference between Forestry Firefighter vs Wildland Firefighter?

AspectForestry FirefighterWildland Firefighter
Required CertificationsFirefighter certification, basic wildland firefighting trainingFirefighter certification, advanced wildland firefighting training
Work EnvironmentForests, national parks, rural areasWildland areas, forests, grasslands
Employer & IndustryForestry agencies, national parks, conservation organizationsFederal, state, and local fire agencies, conservation districts

Forestry Firefighters and Wildland Firefighters share similar roles in combating forest fires, often requiring comparable certifications and working in outdoor, rural environments. However, Forestry Firefighters typically focus on forest management and fire prevention within designated forestry areas, while Wildland Firefighters may respond to a broader range of wildfires across various terrains. Both roles are vital in protecting natural resources and communities from fire hazards.

What are forestry firefighters?

Forestry firefighters, also known as wildland firefighters, are professionals trained to prevent, control, and extinguish fires in forests, grasslands, and other natural areas. They use specialized equipment and techniques to contain wildfires, protect wildlife habitats, and ensure public safety. Their work often involves physically demanding tasks, long hours, and responding to emergencies in remote locations. Forestry firefighters also participate in fire prevention, education, and rehabilitation of burned areas.
What cities are hiring for Forestry Firefighter jobs? Cities with the most Forestry Firefighter job openings:
What states have the most Forestry Firefighter jobs? States with the most job openings for Forestry Firefighter jobs include:
Wildland Firefighter Medford OR Base

Wildland Firefighter Medford OR Base

Grayback Forestry

White City, OR • On-site

$17.75 - $28.73/hr

Temporary

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Description
Must be 18 years of age to apply
Position: Wildland Firefighter/ Forest Technician
Department: White City, OR Base
Reports To: Supervisor (Crew Foreman)
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Summary
Be physically and mentally prepared to safely perform general forestry projects, Wildland fire suppression and other emergency services as an integral part of a team that will endure long hours in adverse conditions. Work can be performed anywhere in the United States.
Key Character Traits for this Position:
Alertness
Teamwork
Effectiveness
Initiative
Positive Attitude
Diligence
Dependability
Flexibility
Reliability
Endurance
Skill Sets:
* Technical Skills - Proper and safe use of hand tools, chainsaw and flammables.
* Problem Solving - Utilize personal knowledge to resolve issues. Able to discern when to seek assistance for efficient and effective resolutions.
* Customer Service - Respond to requests and assist with an attitude to serve rather than be served.
* Communication - Listen with the intent to provide constructive feedback. Speak in a manner that promotes respect and dignity in positive as well as negative situations.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
*Promote and uphold Grayback Forestry's Mission Statement, Company Vision and Core Values at all times.
* Maintain a safe, productive and positive work environment. Maintain and clean all equipment issued.
* Comply with all state and federal regulations.
* Use of power tools - pumps and chain saws; hand tools - Mcleods, Pulaskis, shovels, hazel hoes, and drip torches.
* Cut, clear and pile brush and trees in a forest environment. Tree planting, staking and tubing.
* Extinguish flames and embers to suppress forest fires using hand tools. Construct fire lines and ignite slash for controlled burns. Set up of water tanks, pumps, hoses to fight wildfire and prescribe burns. * Other duties as assigned by supervisor.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.
Education and/or Experience:
To become an entry level wildland firefighter (FF-2), a basic firefighting course that meets the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (PMS 310-1) standards is required. Basic training is a 5-day course that consists of a fitness capacity test, classroom training and a field examination day (40 hours minimum). This class is comprised of the S-130, S-190, L-180, and Field Evaluation. There are two additional required online self-study courses that everyone needs to complete order to become eligible to be a wildland firefighter. The IS-700 and I-100 courses are required by FEMA for all emergency response workers, including wildland firefighters.
This Basic Firefighting Course can be obtained from any NWCG certified training provider (Federal and State Agencies, Universities and Community Colleges, NWSA Certified Instructors, etc.) or free of charge from Grayback Forestry but unpaid. Upon completion of course, you will receive a certificate as a firefighter 2 that will be recognized by other private companies, State and Federal agencies, allowing you to be eligible to work for any of them. California agencies may have additional requirements.
In addition, individuals must pass an Agency required "Pack Test", which consists of completing a three-mile, controlled course walk within 45 minutes while carrying 45 pounds on your back. Grayback will administer and document pass or fail free of charge or you can take the test from any NWCG certified training provider (Federal and State Agencies, Universities and Community Colleges, NWSA Certified Instructors, etc.)
Physical Demands:
Possess ability to perform hard manual labor on steep terrain, using chain saws and hand tools and to lift and carry 50 pounds or more. You may be required to walk ten miles or more per day.
* Walking/Climbing - Surfaces can be any of the following; forest turf and duff, rocks, gravel, or pavement. Terrain may be flat to steep.
* Carry - 10-50 pounds continuously, 50-100 pounds occasionally. Wear personal backpack while working.
* Pushing/Pulling - 20-30 pounds of force, pushing hand tools into dirt and pulling away topsoil several inches below surface and pulling to scrape to mineral soil continuously.
* Bending/Twisting - From waist and knees to assume position when digging fire line.
* Lifting/Reaching/Handling/Grasping when digging fire line or utilizing other equipment.
Work Environment:
Working conditions include working in a crew (team) environment, outside in varying weather conditions. May be required to work in an environment where there are fumes, smoke, noise, chemicals, dirt, and dust. May be on duty 16 hours or more a day, including travel time from the base to work site and back. May involve extended time away from home and depending on the fire location, you may work 21 days straight before a day off.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.
EOE: minority/female/disabled/veteran
Equal Opportunity Employer: minority/female/disabled/veteran
Request Assistance: If you are a qualified individual or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to access job openings or apply for a job on this site as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by contacting Human Resources at 541-476-0033.