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National Forest Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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National Forest information

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$29.5K

$79.1K

$129.5K

How much do national forest jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for national forest 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 are national forests?

National Forests are federally managed lands in the United States designated for the purpose of conserving natural resources, providing recreation, and supporting sustainable resource use. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, these lands are open to the public for activities such as camping, hiking, and wildlife observation. National Forests also play a critical role in preserving biodiversity, protecting watersheds, and supporting local economies through timber and other resource management. They differ from National Parks in that they allow for multiple uses, including regulated logging and grazing.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a national forest manager?

To thrive as a National Forest Manager, you need expertise in forestry, natural resource management, and environmental science, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience in land management. Familiarity with GIS mapping software, forest inventory systems, and regulatory compliance tools is important for effective oversight. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help in coordinating teams and engaging with the public. These skills and qualities are vital for sustainably managing forest resources, ensuring ecosystem health, and balancing multiple stakeholder interests.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working in national forest management, and how can these be addressed?

Professionals working in National Forest management often encounter challenges such as balancing conservation goals with public recreation, managing wildfire risks, and responding to pest infestations. Navigating these complexities requires strong collaboration with scientists, local communities, and government agencies. Developing adaptive management plans and staying current with best practices in forestry and environmental policy can help address these challenges. Continuous learning and stakeholder engagement are key to finding effective, sustainable solutions.

What is the difference between National Forest vs Forest Technician?

AspectNational ForestForest Technician
Primary RoleManagement and conservation of forest lands, overseeing policies and programsAssisting with forest management tasks, data collection, and fieldwork
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in forestry, environmental science, or related fieldHigh school diploma or associate degree, with some positions requiring forestry coursework
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, fieldwork in forests, and public engagementPrimarily outdoor fieldwork, working in forested areas under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageFederal agencies like the U.S. Forest Service, managing national forestsGovernment agencies, state forestry departments, or private contractors supporting forest management

In summary, a National Forest refers to the land area managed for conservation and public use, while a Forest Technician is a role within that environment, supporting fieldwork and data collection to assist in forest management efforts.

More about National Forest jobs
What cities are hiring for National Forest jobs? Cities with the most National Forest job openings:
What states have the most National Forest jobs? States with the most job openings for National Forest jobs include:
Infographic showing various National Forest 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 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,083 per year, or $38 per hour.

$19.52/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


USDA Forest Service rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

157th of 290 rated public sector bodies


Job description

This position is located within a National Forest. The incumbent is responsible for providing technical support to the unit recreation and snow ranger programs. As a Snow Ranger duties are to monitor winter recreation activities from December through April on National Forest Lands.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.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.
GS-05: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GS-4 grade level; OR a bachelor's degree or 4 years of successfully completed education above high school (120 semester/180 quarter hours) with major study in forestry, range management, agriculture, or a subject-matter field directly related to the position, or that included at least 24 semester hours in any combination of courses such as forestry, agriculture, crop or plant science, range management or conservation, wildlife management, watershed management, soil science, natural resources, outdoor recreation management, civil or forest engineering, or wildland fire science (no more than 6 semester hours in mathematics is creditable); OR combinations of successfully completed post-high school education (in excess of the first 60 semester/90 quarter hours) and specialized experience. The education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university.
Examples of specialized experience include: Working as a Forest Protection Officer (FPO) or similar position writing incident reports or violation notices as needed; providing technical support to the recreation program on the unit performing winter patrols of wilderness boundaries to assure compliance with winter recreation regulations and winter travel plans; providing information on resource management practices and recreation regulations, opportunities, and restrictions; ensuring recreation areas and trails were maintained in accordance with standards; and performing crew-based forestry related support work, such as for recreation or trail maintenance projects.
Selective Placement Factors
  • Incumbent must meet the Minimum Level I American Avalanche Association or equivalent certification.
  • First Aid and CPR certification is required to perform duties.
  • A valid driver's license is required to drive motor vehicles.
  • Use of snowshoes, skis, ATV's, and snowmobiles is required, with the ability to safely move and reposition snowmobiles in deep snow, load/unload snowmobiles from trailers, etc.
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.
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:Employment Type: OTHER

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