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Independent Contractor Forest Fire Equipment Operator Jobs

Handyman Connection

Independent Contractor

PA · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

To work with us as an independent contractor, you'll need to have the following in place: - General ... Each Handyman Connection franchise is locally owned and operated, backed by the company that helped ...

Handyman Connection

Independent Contractor

Coraopolis, PA · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

To work with us as an independent contractor, you'll need to have the following in place: - General ... Each Handyman Connection franchise is locally owned and operated, backed by the company that helped ...

Binderholz

Heavy Equipment Operator

Live Oak, FL · On-site

About Company: In 1957, Franz Binder, sr. founded the since then existing independent family ... The Heavy Equipment Operator plays a critical role in the agriculture, forestry, fishing, and ...

City of Durham

Fire Equipment Mechanic

Durham, NC

$58K - $90K/yr

... operating equipment; performing tests and inspections; performing preventative maintenance; enter data into maintenance management system; and performing field and emergency calls. Incumbents ...

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Independent Contractor Forest Fire Equipment Operator information

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$22

$31

How much do independent contractor forest fire equipment operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor forest fire equipment operator in the United States is $22.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Forest Fire Equipment Operator vs Firefighter?

AspectIndependent Contractor Forest Fire Equipment OperatorFirefighter
CredentialsCertifications in equipment operation, safety trainingFirefighter certification, EMT training
Work EnvironmentRural, forested areas, often seasonalFire stations, emergency scenes, various locations
Employer & IndustryContracted by forestry agencies or private companiesGovernment agencies, fire departments

While both roles involve fire management, Independent Contractor Forest Fire Equipment Operators focus on operating specialized equipment in forested areas, often on a contractual basis. Firefighters perform direct fire suppression and rescue in various environments. The key differences lie in certifications, work settings, and employment structure.

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Independent Contractor Forest Fire Equipment Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Forest Fire Equipment Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,279 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Forestry Equipment Operator - Mastication

Markit! Forestry Management LLC

Jackson, CA • On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 hours ago

Job description

Forestry Equipment Operator - Mastication
Job Description: This position will help Markit! execute various forestry projects and be responsible for assisting in the proper maintenance, preparation and operation of all tools and equipment including hand tools, chainsaws, chippers, and heavy machinery. This position will report to and work closely with the Project Foreman and Superintendent.
Location: Projects may be located throughout the State of California and surrounding states.
Travel: 50-75% but may be up to 100% depending on the project assignment.
Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Operate Markit!'s heavy forestry equipment (e.g. Masticator, Skidder, Feller Buncher, Log Loader, Harvester, Delimber, Dozer, Excavator, Chipper) as appropriate for each project.
  • Perform chainsaw felling operations, including directional felling, limbing, and bucking.
  • Manage slash operations, including lop-and-scatter, chipping, and hauling.
  • Perform road work, excavation, lifting work, site clean-up, etc.
  • Control erosion by contour felling and LEB creation and installation.
  • Responsible for completing and submitting proper daily inspections and maintenance on assigned machine(s), requesting any necessary repairs/maintenance from the Fleet Department.
  • Adhere to Markit!'s safety standards and promote safety culture among crew members, including the proper use of machinery and equipment and resolve problems when they arise.
  • Participate in weekly job site maintenance training conducted by the Foreman.
  • Perform equipment repairs/maintenance.
  • Prepare to spend multiple overnights at project sites, as necessary.
  • General forestry labor, as necessary and appropriate.
Requirements:
  • Minimum 1- 3 years of experience in forestry industry operating heavy machinery, mastication experience is strongly preferred.
  • 18 years of age or older.
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and a clean driving record.
  • Must pass pre-employment background check.
  • Ability to work in a team and independently.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Have the ability and desire to perform strenuous outdoor work on rough terrain in a variety of inclement weather conditions.
  • Quick and able learner with strong leadership skills and a keen eye for details and good decision-making and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work under pressure and stress and handle emergency situations.
  • Effectively complete work projects on time.
  • Ability to utilize safety procedures.
  • Physical ability to bend, squat, lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
  • Technical skills and ability to use a smart phone and/or tablet.
  • Must have reliable transportation to, from and while working on the job site.
Language:
  • English required.
  • Bi-lingual (English/Spanish) is a plus.
Job Type:
  • Full-time, year-round work with minimal down days.
Benefits:
  • Competitive wages.
  • Annual reviews.
  • Health insurance including medical, dental and vision.
  • Supplementary insurance including life, short and long term insurance.
  • Paid holidays, vacation and personal time.
  • Retirement with company match.
  • Company provided training for career advancement.
Compensation: $25.00 - 40.00 hourly, dependent on qualifications and experience.
Markit! Forestry is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

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