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Forestry Ranger Jobs in Tempe, AZ (NOW HIRING)

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Forestry Ranger information

See Tempe, AZ salary details

$37.8K

$53.2K

$70.4K

How much do forestry ranger jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for forestry ranger in Tempe, AZ is $53,175.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $54,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a forestry ranger?

Forestry Rangers are professionals responsible for managing, protecting, and conserving forests and natural resources. They patrol forested areas to prevent illegal activities such as poaching and logging, respond to emergencies like wildfires, and educate the public about responsible land use. Forestry Rangers also collect data on wildlife and plant populations, assist in habitat restoration, and enforce environmental regulations to ensure the long-term health of forest ecosystems.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a forestry ranger?

To thrive as a Forestry Ranger, you need knowledge of environmental science, forest management practices, and relevant regulations, usually supported by a degree in forestry or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, GPS devices, and fire management certification is often required. Strong observation skills, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help in monitoring forest health and engaging with the public. These skills ensure the protection of natural resources, safety, and successful stewardship of forested lands.

What challenges do forestry rangers face in their day-to-day work?

Forestry Rangers often encounter challenges such as managing large areas of land with limited resources, responding quickly to emergencies like wildfires or illegal activities, and balancing conservation efforts with public access. They must adapt to varying weather conditions and rugged terrains, which can be physically demanding. Additionally, effective communication and collaboration with local communities, law enforcement, and other agencies are essential to successfully carrying out their responsibilities.

What is the difference between Forestry Ranger vs Conservation Officer?

AspectForestry RangerConservation Officer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certifications in forestry or natural resource managementHigh school diploma; certifications in environmental science or conservation
Work EnvironmentForests, parks, and outdoor natural areasWildlife reserves, parks, and conservation sites
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, parks departmentsEnvironmental agencies, conservation organizations

Forestry Rangers primarily focus on managing forest resources, enforcing regulations, and ensuring public safety in natural areas. Conservation Officers also work in natural settings but often have broader responsibilities including wildlife protection, habitat preservation, and law enforcement related to environmental laws. Both roles require similar certifications and work outdoors, but their specific duties and focus areas differ.

How do you become a forestry ranger?

To become a forestry ranger, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions requiring a bachelor's degree in forestry, environmental science, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of conservation practices, proficiency with tools and equipment, and often the completion of certification programs such as first aid or firefighting. Gaining experience through internships or seasonal work can also improve job prospects, and physical fitness is usually required due to outdoor work conditions.

What cities near Tempe, AZ are hiring for Forestry Ranger jobs?

Cities near Tempe, AZ with the most Forestry Ranger job openings:

Forestry Ranger jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forestry Ranger job openings in Tempe, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,175 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Prevention)

Mesa, AZ • On-site

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service
Public Administration • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Serviceexternal

$67K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist in the planning and execution of fire prevention, suppression, and education programs on a large land area.

  • Support the development and implementation of fire management plans, including fire prevention and detection activities.

  • Participate in wildland firefighting activities, including passing the arduous level Work Capacity Test (WCT).

USDA Forest Service rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

This position is located at a USDA Forest Service Unit.
Serves as the Assistant District Fire Management Officer (ADFMO) on a Ranger District of a National Forest. Primary responsibilities involve assisting in the planning and execution of the fire prevention, suppression, and education programs on a large, highly complex land area.
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:One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-07) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Assisted in directing safe initial and extended attack suppression actions, including determining incident needs, dispatch and deployment of personnel and equipment; Identified, collected, preserved and/or examined evidence in the determination of the probable cause of fire; Assisted in the development, implementation and presentation of the role of fire in ecosystems management educational programs.
For the GW-09: One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-08) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Assisted in developing and executing plans to solve complex problems involving fire preparedness, fuels management, fire prevention, and/or training; Assisted the management of fire prevention and detection programs, scheduling staffing, maintenance and/or training; Assisted the development of fire control plans and/or documentation relating to fire pre-suppression, prevention, detection, suppression tactics and/or strategies.
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. 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 ARDUOUS 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:There is no substitution of education for specialized experience.Employment Type: OTHER

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