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National Forest Service Jobs (NOW HIRING)

National Forest Foundation

CA · On-site

$75K - $86K/yr

As the official national partner to the US Forest Service (USFS), the National Forest Foundation was chartered by Congress in 1990. Today, the NFF advances forest resiliency, healthy watersheds and ...

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National Forest Service information

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$29.5K

$79.1K

$129.5K

How much do national forest service jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 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?

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What states have the most National Forest Service jobs?

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

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The top searched job categories for National Forest Service jobs are:

National Forest Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various National Forest Service job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,083 per year, or $38 per hour.

Wildland Firefighter (Air Tactical Group Supervisor ATGS)

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service

Coeur D Alene, ID • On-site

$67K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

These positions will be located at a USDA Forest Service Unit.
The incumbent serves as an Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS) for an Air Attack platform covering most interagency lands in and adjacent to the National Forest.
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.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements.
For the GW-08: You must have one year specialized experience at least equivalent to the GW-07 in the Federal service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Assisted with the direction of air tactical operations for wildland fires suppression by evaluating aircraft needs to perform tactical missions, establishing target identification and/or navigation requirements; Assisted with the inspection of aviation activities, notifying ground crew of tactics, and/or ordering additional air resources as needed; Participated in aviation activities to support contract management, aviation training, and/or safety programs.
For the GW-09: You must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GW-08 in the Federal service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Assisted with the direction of air tactical operations for wildland fires suppression by providing aerial supervision and/or establishing priorities for initial and extended attacks; Evaluated aircraft needs to perform tactical missions, establishing target identification and navigation requirements; Performed contract management, aviation training, and safety program support activities for an aviation program.
Selective Placement Factors:
Successful completion of the NWCG Core Requirement of Division/Group Supervisor (DIVS) OR Incident Commander Type 3 (ICT3).
Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) and Forest Service - Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) qualifications must be met by the time of selection. Most recent IQCS master record and/or signed Agency Certified task book must be attached to your application. If you are selected, you may be required to submit an updated IQCS master record or signed Agency Certified task book as proof of attainment of IFPM requirements prior to a final verbal offer.
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.
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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