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National Forest Service Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Forester

Hayward, WI ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... National Deer Association (NDA) in the region. This position will require candidates to oversee ... States Forest Service (USFS). In addition to forestry-related tasks, this position will include ...

Customer Service Representative

Asheville, NC ยท On-site

$15.87 - $20.80/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking a Customer Service Representative to provide customer Service duties at the National Forests in North Carolina Supervisors Office in support of disaster recovery efforts from Hurricane ...

FOREST RANGER - 42003097

Venice, FL ยท On-site

$46K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Career Service Position Number: 42003097 Salary: $46,990.84 - $55,005.08 Posting Closing Date: 08 ... Such examination may include, but need not be limited to, provisions of the National Fire ...

FOREST RANGER - 42003097

Venice, FL

$46K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Career Service Position Number: 42003097 Salary: $46,990.84 - $55,005.08 Posting Closing Date: 08 ... Such examination may include, but need not be limited to, provisions of the National Fire ...

FOREST RANGER - 42002426

Sanderson, FL ยท On-site

$46K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Career Service Position Number: 42002426 Salary: $46,990.84 - $55,005.08 Posting Closing Date: 08 ... Such examination may include, but need not be limited to, provisions of the National Fire ...

FOREST RANGER - 42002426

Sanderson, FL ยท On-site

$46K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Career Service Position Number: 42002426 Salary: $46,990.84 - $55,005.08 Posting Closing Date: 08 ... Such examination may include, but need not be limited to, provisions of the National Fire ...

FOREST RANGER - 42003251

Groveland, FL ยท On-site

$46K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Career Service Position Number: 42003251 Salary: $46,990.84 - $55,005.08 Posting Closing Date: 08 ... Such examination may include, but need not be limited to, provisions of the National Fire ...

FOREST RANGER - 42003097

Venice, FL

$46K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Career Service Position Number: 42003097 Salary: $46,990.84 - $55,005.08 Posting Closing Date: 08 ... Such examination may include, but need not be limited to, provisions of the National Fire ...

FOREST RANGER - 42002772

Glen Saint Mary, FL ยท On-site

$46K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Career Service Position Number: 42002772 Salary: $46,990.84 - $55,005.08 Posting Closing Date: 08 ... Such examination may include, but need not be limited to, provisions of the National Fire ...

FOREST RANGER - 42002772

Glen Saint Mary, FL

$46K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Career Service Position Number: 42002772 Salary: $46,990.84 - $55,005.08 Posting Closing Date: 08 ... Such examination may include, but need not be limited to, provisions of the National Fire ...

Showing results 41-60

National Forest Service information

See salary details

$29.5K

$79.1K

$129.5K

How much do national forest service jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for national forest service in the United States is $79,083.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $95,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the National Forest Service?

The National Forest Service, officially known as the United States Forest Service (USFS), is an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture that manages public lands in national forests and grasslands. Their mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of these lands to meet the needs of present and future generations. They are responsible for activities such as protecting wildlife habitats, managing recreational opportunities, overseeing timber harvests, and fighting wildfires. The agency also works on conservation efforts and collaborates with local communities to ensure sustainable use of forest resources.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a National Forest Service role?

To succeed in a National Forest Service position, you generally need a background in forestry, environmental science, or natural resource management, often supported by a relevant degree or specialized training. Proficiency with GIS mapping software, field data collection tools, and knowledge of federal land management policies is typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills help individuals collaborate effectively and respond to challenges in outdoor settings. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring the responsible stewardship, safety, and sustainability of national forests and public lands.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working for the National Forest Service, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Employees at the National Forest Service often face challenges such as working in remote or rugged outdoor environments, adapting to variable weather, and managing multiple priorities like conservation, recreation, and wildfire prevention. New hires can prepare by developing strong problem-solving skills, staying physically fit, and familiarizing themselves with outdoor safety protocols. Additionally, effective communication and teamwork are vital, as staff regularly collaborate with other agencies, local communities, and volunteers to achieve conservation goals.

What is the difference between National Forest Service vs Forest Ranger?

AspectNational Forest ServiceForest Ranger
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in forestry, environmental science, or related fields; certifications in firefighting and first aidRequires similar degrees and certifications; often involves specialized training in law enforcement and firefighting
Work EnvironmentGovernment agency managing national forests, working outdoors in various terrainsFieldwork in forests, parks, and wilderness areas, often performing patrols, rescues, and conservation tasks
Employer & IndustryU.S. Forest Service, part of the U.S. Department of AgricultureU.S. Forest Service or state agencies, often employed as law enforcement or conservation officers

While both roles involve working in forested environments and require similar qualifications, the National Forest Service is the federal agency overseeing forest management, whereas a Forest Ranger is a job title for personnel working within or for the agency, focusing on conservation, law enforcement, and public safety tasks.

Is it hard to become a National Forest Service officer?

Becoming a National Forest Service officer typically requires a bachelor's degree, relevant work experience, and passing a series of exams and background checks. The process can be competitive and may involve physical fitness tests and specialized training, such as completing the Forest Service Academy.
More about National Forest Service jobs

What cities are hiring for National Forest Service jobs?

Cities with the most National Forest Service job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Forest Service jobs?

The most popular types of Forest Service jobs are:

What states have the most National Forest Service jobs?

States with the most job openings for National Forest Service jobs include:

Infographic showing various National Forest Service job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,083 per year, or $38 per hour.

Forester

Wiregrass Ecological Associates

Hayward, WI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Location: Northern Wisconsin/Western Upper Peninsula (exact location negotiable) 
Application Deadline: April 1, 2026, or until filled - tentative starting date is April 20, 2026

Wiregrass Ecological Associates (WEA) is seeking qualified candidates for a full-time forester position in Northern Wisconsin or the Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan. This position will implement forestry and ecology work, manage clients, projects, contractors, and manage the shared stewardship goals of our partner National Deer Association (NDA) in the region.  This position will require candidates to oversee existing projects through their life cycle while coordinating with various stakeholders and landowners, especially the United States Forest Service (USFS).  In addition to forestry-related tasks, this position will include assisting fellow team members in other projects including urban tree management, red-cockaded woodpecker (RCW) management, gopher tortoise relocation, and other threatened and endangered species management as time allows.  We are looking for candidates who possess a high level of intrinsic motivation and demonstrate excellent analytical skills. An ideal applicant should be flexible and adaptive to changing conditions and challenges in the field. The ability to work effectively within a team-oriented environment is essential for success in this position, as collaboration and communication are key to achieving our conservation goals. If you are passionate about forest management, conservation, and ecosystem restoration and have the qualifications we seek, we encourage you to apply.
Primary Duties:
  • Perform and oversee timber inventory/cruising, marking, and layout for appraisals, timber sales, and USFS Common Stand Exams (CSEs). 
  • Provide administrative oversight to contractors (timber sales, hand crews, road work, site preparations)
  • Conduct herbicide treatments of invasive/undesirable species, aiming to promote the health of the forest and reduce competition.
  • Assist in identifying and developing the scope for stewardship and conservation projects on the Chequamegon Nicolet National Forest and other projects which occur across various land ownerships and land uses. 
  • Assist biologists in various management activities associated with Threatened and Endangered species.
  • Flexibility to travel (sometimes extended or frequent) to other parts of the US to assist foresters and biologists in the completion of their projects, cross-training skill development, and information exchanges within a team-oriented group.  
  • Ensure accurate records and reports.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in forestry and/or wildlife science from an accredited university is preferred.
  • Minimum 3 years of practical forestry experience is preferred.
  • Preference will be given to candidates with experience in timber sale management including: 
  • Understand basic silvicultural practices and techniques.
  • Logging crew oversight.
  • Understanding/enforcing BMPs & SMZs.
  • Ability to visually determine timber products on the stump and loading deck.
  • Conducting forest surveys and tree measurements.
  • Timber marking.
  • Best Management Practices (BMP) compliance oversight.
  • Assessing potential environmental impacts of a harvest and identifying/addressing forest management challenges.
  • Demonstrated knowledge and experience with the flora, fauna, and forested ecosystems of the Midwest, is required. 
  • Preference will be given to applicants with demonstrated experience with technical writings such as NEPA reporting, biological diversity reports, or environmental impact assessments.
  • Applicants must be self-motivated, responsible, and have the ability to solve problems. The position requires excellent organizational skills, the capability to work independently with little direct supervision, networking and communication skills, and project management experience.
  • Applicant must have a valid driver's license and experience using and operating common forestry field equipment and ATVs.  
  • Candidates must be able to work in challenging field conditions, including workable hard weather conditions, insects, wildlife, and dense brush.

Salary/Benefits: Salary commensurate with experience. Benefits include Personally Assigned Vehicle, Health Insurance, Paid Holidays, Vacation Time, Sick Leave, Parental Leave, Bonus-eligible, Retirement, and Training. 
To Apply: Please send a cover letter, resume, and 3 references in a single document (PDF preferred) to jobs@wiregrasseco.com with the subject line: “Application for WI Forester”.