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Full Time Fire Lookout information

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$13

$23

$36

How much do full time fire lookout jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time fire lookout in the United States is $23.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $26.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Fire Lookout, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Fire Lookout, you need strong observational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to identify early signs of wildfire, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with radio communication systems, topographic maps, GPS devices, and fire reporting protocols is typically required. Reliability, self-motivation, and effective communication are essential soft skills for working independently in remote locations and relaying accurate information. These abilities are crucial to ensure early fire detection, safeguard natural resources, and support coordinated emergency response efforts.

Is Firewatch a good paying job?

Firewatch positions, such as full-time fire lookouts, typically offer modest pay that may include seasonal or part-time wages, often supplemented by housing or stipends. These jobs are generally considered low to moderate paying compared to other firefighting roles, with compensation varying by location and experience. Skills in observation, communication, and safety protocols are important for success in this role.

How do I get a job at a fire lookout tower?

To become a fire lookout, applicants typically need to meet minimum age and physical requirements, pass a background check, and have good observation skills. Relevant experience in forestry, outdoor work, or related fields can be beneficial, and some positions require certification in first aid or firefighting. Job openings are often posted by government agencies or forest services, and applying through their official channels is essential.

What are full time fire lookouts?

Full time fire lookouts are individuals employed to monitor forests and wilderness areas for signs of wildfires. They typically work in remote lookout towers or observation points, where they scan the landscape for smoke, flames, or other indicators of fire. Their main duties include reporting fires promptly, keeping detailed logs of weather conditions, and sometimes assisting with communication and coordination during fire incidents. Full time fire lookouts play a crucial role in early wildfire detection, which helps protect natural resources, wildlife, and communities. This position often requires long periods of solitude and keen observational skills.

Is it hard to get a job as a fire lookout?

Getting a job as a fire lookout can be competitive due to limited positions and specific requirements such as good observation skills, physical fitness, and often a willingness to work in remote locations. Applicants typically need to pass a background check and may require training or certification in fire detection and safety procedures.

How much do Firewatch lookouts get paid?

Firewatch lookouts typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and agency. Salaries can also include benefits such as housing or stipends, especially in remote areas, and the position often requires seasonal or temporary work with a focus on observation skills and safety protocols.

What is the difference between Full Time Fire Lookout vs Part Time Fire Lookout?

AspectFull Time Fire LookoutPart Time Fire Lookout
Work ScheduleTypically 40 hours/week, year-roundLess than 20 hours/week, seasonal or as needed
CertificationsRequired fire safety and communication certificationsOften same certifications, but less frequently required
Work EnvironmentRemote, often in towers or remote stationsSimilar environment, but shorter shifts
Employer UsageState or federal agencies managing fire preventionSame agencies, with flexible staffing needs

Full Time Fire Lookouts work year-round with consistent hours, focusing on fire detection and prevention. Part Time Fire Lookouts work seasonal or flexible hours, often supplementing staff during peak fire seasons. Both roles require similar certifications and operate in remote environments, but full-time positions offer more stability and benefits.

What does a typical day look like for a Full Time Fire Lookout, and how does the role interact with other firefighting teams?

A typical day for a Full Time Fire Lookout involves long periods of visual scanning from a watchtower or remote station, using binoculars and maps to spot smoke or signs of wildfire. Lookouts maintain detailed logs, report weather conditions, and promptly communicate any potential fire activity to dispatch centers via radio. While the role is often solitary, fire lookouts play a critical part in the early warning system and collaborate closely with firefighting teams by providing accurate, real-time information that guides response efforts. This timely communication helps ground crews and aerial teams respond more effectively to emerging threats.
Infographic showing various Full Time Fire Lookout job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,371 per year, or $23.3 per hour.
Trimmer C - Union

Trimmer C - Union

Asplundh Tree Expert, LLC

Saint Albans, WV

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago

Asplundh Tree Expert rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 226 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 18 rated forestry and logging companies

Job description

Trimmer/Climber

**We are hiring Entry-level and Skilled Trimmers and Climbers** On-the-job training is provided.  The perfect opportunity to build a career in the Line Clearance industry.   If you enjoy the great outdoors, this position is tailor-made for you.   

Our team of tree trimmers and climbers is on the lookout for bold individuals who love to work in all-weather elements. Wind, rain, sunshine, or snow - we tackle them all! If you want to experience the world from a tree's perspective, this is the job for you.   Our crews trim, top, and reshape trees to remove low-hanging, dead, and excess branches, providing clearance for utility powerlines.  

Job Type: 

  • Full-Time +, Non-Exempt

Pay: 

  • Competitive, Hourly

Benefits:

  • Company-sponsored Retirement Plan
  • Health Insurance (Medical/Dental/Vision)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Life, long-term/short-term disability insurance

Essential Functions & Responsibilities:

  • Trims and/or removes trees, branches, trunk sections.
  • Operate and service all required tools/equipment.
  • Cuts and splits large debris into manageable pieces.
  • Sprays areas with equipment to prevent further growth.
  • Loads/unloads trucks.
  • Feeds brush & debris into a woodchipper.
  • Repairs minor job-related damage to lawns, fences, and walkways.
  • Services gasoline, air, and hand-powered tools and other equipment.
  • Relays hand signals, directs traffic, drives, and operates trucks and equipment, as assigned.
  • Keeps trucks and work areas clear and orderly.
  • Safeguards employees and the public from hazards in and around the work area.
  • Cooperates with customers, police, and fire departments when blocking streets or driveways.
  • Sets up barriers, warning signs, flags, markers, etc. to protect employees and the public.
  • Trained to perform tree and bucket rescue.
  • Assists in training new employees.
  • Assumes responsibility for the inspection and proper working conditions of tools, trucks, and other work equipment.
  • Requests repair or replacement, when necessary.
  • Maintains good housekeeping on trucks and at work locations.
  • Performs other related work, as assigned by superiors.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Must be able to work with hands above head for extended periods of time.
  • Must be able to walk, climb, and work from ladders, or at various heights, on uneven and slippery surfaces, performing mentally/physically demanding work under unfavorable weather conditions while handling equipment or material.
  • No fear of heights.
  • Must have good hand-to-eye coordination.

Education & Experience:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
  • Entry-level position, no experience required.
  • Previous experience is a plus.

Pre-Screen:

  • Upon offer, employees may be required to complete and pass a pre-employment drug screen, background, and/or MVR check.

License & Certifications:

  • A Driver's License is Preferred, but not required.

Physical Requirements:

  • RARE (less than 10%): Sitting, Kneeling, Crawling, Color Vision, Climbing Stairs
  • OCCASIONAL (up to 33%): Stooping, Squatting, Climbing On/Off Truck, Climbing Ladders, Pushing, Reading,
  • FREQUENT (up to 66%): Carrying, Pulling, lifting up to 50 lbs., Balancing, body-twisting, Hearing/Speech Range, Lifting, lifting up to 10 lbs., Manual Dexterity, Speaking Clearly, Walking
  • CONTINUOUS (up to 100%): Standing, Sense of Touch, Gripping, Seeing Distant, Reaching, range-of-motion, Depth Perception, lifting over 10 lbs. to 50 lbs., Climbing Poles, Sense of Touch

Individuals with a disability who desire a reasonable accommodation can contact the ADA Coordinator by calling 1-833-222-3066. We partner with the Department of Homeland Security/U.S. Customs and Immigration Service to e-Verify all newly hired employees.

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