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Hand Crew Firefighter Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

Hand Crew Firefighter information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$27.4K

$57.2K

$96K

How much do hand crew firefighter jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for hand crew firefighter in Baton Rouge, LA is $57,236.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,700.00 and $66,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hand crew firefighter?

Hand Crew Firefighters are specially trained wildland firefighters who work in teams to suppress wildfires. They use hand tools, such as shovels, axes, and chainsaws, to create firebreaks, remove fuel, and control the spread of fires, often in rugged and remote terrain. Hand crews are essential for containing wildfires, as they perform physically demanding tasks under challenging conditions, sometimes for long hours. Their work is critical in protecting lives, property, and natural resources from fire damage.

What are some common challenges faced by hand crew firefighters during wildfire assignments?

Hand Crew Firefighters often work in physically demanding and rapidly changing environments, which can present challenges such as long shifts, exposure to extreme weather, and rugged terrain. Team members must remain alert and adaptable as fire behavior can change quickly, requiring constant communication and coordination. Additionally, they may need to hike long distances carrying heavy gear, and manage fatigue while maintaining safety protocols. These challenges make teamwork, resilience, and strong situational awareness essential for success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hand crew firefighter, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hand Crew Firefighter, you need strong physical fitness, knowledge of wildfire suppression techniques, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools like chainsaws, shovels, and fire shelters, as well as certifications such as the Wildland Firefighter Type 2 (FFT2), are typically required. Teamwork, resilience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are crucial soft skills in this high-stress environment. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure safety, effective coordination, and successful wildfire containment in hazardous conditions.

What is the difference between Hand Crew Firefighter vs Wildland Firefighter?

AspectHand Crew FirefighterWildland Firefighter
CertificationsFirefighter 1, S-130, S-190, First Aid/CPRFirefighter 1, S-130, S-190, First Aid/CPR
Work EnvironmentTeam-based, on-the-ground fire suppression, often in remote areasSimilar, involved in fire suppression in wildland areas
Employer & IndustryFederal, state, or local fire agencies; wildfire suppressionFederal, state, or local agencies; wildfire response

Both Hand Crew Firefighters and Wildland Firefighters share similar certifications, work environments, and industry usage. The main difference is that Hand Crew Firefighters typically work as part of specialized hand crews focused on fire line construction, suppression, and containment, whereas Wildland Firefighters may have broader roles including initial attack and support tasks. Both roles are essential in wildfire management and require similar training and qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Hand Crew Firefighter jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

For Hand Crew Firefighter jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hand Crew Firefighter jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Hand Crew Firefighter jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

Forestry Crew Specialist 1-2 - Wildland Firefighter

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site


State of Louisiana
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 50 rated states

People enjoy working here

Recommended by parents

Respectful managers


$1.7K/wk

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

About this Job Job #FOR-50674191-8.17.26-TW This position is located within the Office of Forestry in Natchitoches Parish. The Office of Forestry's primary responsibilities include suppressing timberland wildfires; promoting sound forest management practices; disseminating information; facilitating educational programs; producing reforestation seedlings; enforcing timber-related laws; investigating timber theft; and assisting community urban forestry programs. The incumbent of this position is responsible for performing duties related to fire prevention and suppression of wildfires in the forestlands of Louisiana

Supervision for this position is received from the Forestry Parish Supervisor. Ready to make a difference in protecting Louisiana's forests. Join the Louisiana Department of Agriculture & Forestry as a Forestry Crew Specialist.

Play a vital role in wildfire prevention and suppression, promote sound forest management, enforce timber laws, and support community forestry programs. Advance your career with leadership opportunities and CDL options. This position offers eligibility for the Hazardous Duty Services Retirement Plan at all levels of the CPG.

Why Join Us. Work in breathtaking natural settings Enjoy competitive pay and great benefits Make a real impact on the environment Be part of a passionate, supportive team LDAF cares about the well-being of its employees. We offer a fully employer-funded Employee Assistance Program (EAP), providing valuable support and resources to help you and your household members thrive at work and at home.

The EAP is also free for all members of your household. If you're ready to step up, stand out, and help safeguard our forests, apply today and start your next adventure. Get excited about this wonderful opportunity.

Watch this video to see what employees in the Forestry division have to share: https://youtu.be/kmSGeMV7peo. Minimum Qualifications Possession of a high school diploma or equivalent. NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: Possession of a current Louisiana driver's license

Job Specification The official job specifications for this role, as defined by the State Civil Service, can be found here. Job Duties and Other Information Job Duties: The incumbent of this position will perform duties related to fire prevention and suppression of wildfires in the forestlands of Louisiana for the Office of Forestry within the Louisiana Department of Agriculture & Forestry. In this role, you will: Responsible for making reports of forest fires, including gathering data such as location and number of acres involved.

Assists the Forestry Crew Specialist Leader in the performance of forest management activities, including cruising, detecting, and controlling forest insects and diseases. Participates in Information & Education programs related to all forestry fields as required. Responsible for monitoring and/or performing the repair and maintenance of transport trucks, dozer tractors, various fire suppression equipment, and a variety of hand and power tools.

Performs other duties as may be assigned. Functional Requirements: Moderate light lifting, 30 pounds, with occasional lifting of up to 50+ pounds Reaching above the shoulders and carrying specialist equipment needed to perform duties Occasional demands may be required for moderately strenuous activities in emergencies over long periods of time Climbing on and off the transport and tractor Environmental Factors: Working indoors and outdoors Excessive smoke, heat, humidity, cold, wet, and extreme dry conditions Walking on irregular ground for long distances Working around neighborhood/residential and wild land hazards Will be required to wear appropriate safety protection/clothing Position-Specific Details: Appointment Type: Full-time, Probational Career Progression: This position may be filled as a Forestry Crew Specialist 1 or 2, depending on the level of experience of the selected applicant(s). Compensation: *This position has a Special Entrance Rate at each level of the Career Progression Group* Forestry Crew Specialist 1 has an SER of $1,616.00 Bi-weekly

Forestry Crew Specialist 2 has an SER of $1,728.80 Bi-weekly. Other Benefits: This position is eligible to receive on-call compensation ($1.00/hour) when the employee is required to be available for work status at times outside of the regular work schedule. Work schedules and on-call rotations are determined by the Ag/Forestry Regional Administrator

Additionally, the incumbent of this position will receive hazardous duty pay ($1.73/hour) for all hours worked in addition to their base salary. Incumbent will also receive longevity based premium pay for all hours worked based on your years of service with LDAF. *LDAF - Longevity-Based Premium Pay Schedule* (*per hour for hours worked) 0-2 Years - $2.00

2-4 Years - $3.00. 4-6 Years - $4.00. 6-8 Years - $5.00

8+ Years - $6.00. Location: This position is located within the Office of Forestry in Natchitoches Parish. Other Important Information Candidates who hold a current Louisiana Class A or B CDL are encouraged to apply

New hires selected for these positions will have one year from their hire date to obtain a Louisiana Class B or higher CDL. The Department will provide training before the required testing date. Once a CDL is obtained, employees must remain with LDAF for at least one additional year or reimburse the Department for any CDL-related expenses incurred.

Louisiana is a State as a Model Employer (SAME) that supports the recruitment, hiring, and retention of individuals with disabilities. How To Apply: No Civil Service test score is required in order to be considered for this vacancy. To apply for this vacancy, click on the "Apply" link above and complete an electronic application, which can be used for this vacancy as well as future job opportunities.

Applicants are responsible for checking the status of their application to determine where they are in the recruitment process. Further status message information is located under the Information section of the Current Job Opportunities page. *Information to support your eligibility for this job title must be included in the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education)

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completed education and experience sections on your application. Applications may be rejected if incomplete. The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry strictly prohibits workplace harassment and discrimination on the on the basis of race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, religion, national origin, military service, sickle cell trait, protected genetic information or other non-merit factor.

LDAF also strictly prohibits employment decisions based upon or influenced by such factors. All candidates for hire must undergo drug screening. This agency participates in the E-Verify system for verification of citizenship and employment authorization.

For further information about this vacancy, contact: Tiffany Waddell -HR Analyst Louisiana Department of Agriculture & Forestry 5825 Florida Blvd., Suite 1001 Baton Rouge, LA 70806 twaddell@ldaf.state.la.us


State of Louisiana logo

About State of Louisiana

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Louisiana, based in Baton Rouge, LA, US, is not a traditional company per se, but a government body that oversees the administration of the state. As revealed on its official website, louisiana.gov, its wide range of services falls within public administration industry, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, environment conservation, and law enforcement. Founded in 1806, the State of Louisiana’s mission is to ensure a high quality of life for its residents by effectively managing public resources, enforcing laws, and fostering economic growth. Its most notable achievements include the successful implementation of its Coastal Master Plan, aimed at conserving Louisiana's extensive coastline, and the dramatic overhaul of its public education system.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Baton Rouge, LA, US

Year founded

1812

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