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Temporary Forest Fire Watch Jobs in Riverside, CA

... Forestry, which is recognized as one of the largest home builders in the United States. Why work ... poles, fire extinguishers, mailboxes, temporary door locks etc. * Coordinate trash dumpster ...

Temporary Forest Fire Watch information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$12

$19

$31

How much do temporary forest fire watch jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary forest fire watch in Riverside, CA is $19.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $22.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a temporary forest fire watch?

Temporary Forest Fire Watch positions are seasonal jobs where individuals are hired to monitor forests and wildlands for signs of wildfires. These workers often patrol assigned areas, report smoke or fires, and help with early detection to prevent the spread of forest fires. They may use lookout towers, patrol vehicles, or even walk through forests to spot potential dangers. The role is crucial during periods of high fire risk, such as dry summer months, and may involve working long hours outdoors in various weather conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary forest fire watch?

To thrive as a Temporary Forest Fire Watch, you need strong observational skills, physical stamina, and a basic understanding of fire behavior, often supported by completion of safety training or wildfire awareness courses. Familiarity with two-way radios, GPS devices, and incident reporting systems is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure prompt detection and reporting of fire hazards, contributing to effective prevention and rapid response efforts in forested areas.

What are some common challenges faced by temporary forest fire watch personnel during a typical assignment?

Temporary Forest Fire Watch personnel often encounter challenges such as working in remote and rugged outdoor environments, sometimes for extended periods without immediate access to amenities. They must remain highly alert for long hours, monitoring for signs of fire or smoke, which can be physically and mentally demanding. Adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions and communicating effectively with firefighting teams are also essential aspects of the role. Successful candidates typically have strong observation skills and the ability to stay calm and focused under pressure.

What is the difference between Temporary Forest Fire Watch vs Forest Fire Fighter?

AspectTemporary Forest Fire WatchForest Fire Fighter
CertificationsBasic fire watch training, CPR/First AidAdvanced firefighting certifications, EMT training
Work EnvironmentRemote outdoor areas, monitoring for fire hazardsActive fire suppression, on-the-ground firefighting
Employer & Industry UsageForestry companies, fire prevention agenciesFire departments, federal agencies, forestry services

Temporary Forest Fire Watch roles focus on monitoring and preventing fires, requiring basic safety certifications. Forest Fire Fighters engage in active fire suppression, often with advanced training. While both work outdoors in similar environments, their responsibilities and certifications differ significantly.

How hard is it to get a job as a temporary forest fire watch?

Securing a position as a temporary forest fire watch typically requires basic outdoor skills, attention to detail, and sometimes a valid certification such as wildfire safety training. The job can be competitive during peak fire season, but availability depends on regional demand and staffing needs. Prior experience in forestry or firefighting can improve chances of hiring.

What are the most commonly searched types of Forest Fire Watch jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Forest Fire Watch jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Temporary Forest Fire Watch jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Temporary Forest Fire Watch jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Temporary Forest Fire Watch jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Temporary Forest Fire Watch jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Temporary Forest Fire Watch jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Temporary Forest Fire Watch job openings:

Infographic showing various Temporary Forest Fire Watch job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,367 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Helitack)

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service

San Bernardino, CA

$62K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

These positions are located on a USDA Forest Service Unit.
The incumbent serves as first line supervisor of a crew of helitack personnel/firefighters that are established to provide fast initial attack, and large fire support and utilizes helicopters in support of all types of incidents.
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.
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.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-07 level: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-06) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Oversaw helicopter service contract and enforced contract provisions; Conducted training in the techniques of aviation, fire suppression, prescribed burning and fuels reduction methods; Performed many technical specializations such as helicopter rappelling, long line, felling, saw repair or water handling used in fire suppression and prescribed burning independently; Communicated critical information pertaining to incident objectives, situations and tactics to pilot(s), crews and dispatchers.
For the GW-08 level: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-07) in the Federal Service. Examples of specialized experience may include: Planned and coordinated complex fire and aviation operations at a temporary or fixed base work location; determined helicopter load limits, takeoff and landing sites, and estimated time requirements; analyzed fire conditions and determined attack methods and resources required; conducted hands-on training pertaining to program and personnel needs related to fire and aviation.
Selective Placement Factors
Successful completion of the Primary NWCG Core Requirement of Helicopter Manager, Single Resource (HMGB) and Incident Commander Type 4 (ICT4). In addition, successful completion of the Secondary NWCG Core Requirements of Helibase Manager Trainee (HEBM(t)).
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.
In order to be considered for this position, copies of your Incident Qualification and Certification System (IQCS) Master Record (or equivalent training documents) which contain documented proof of the certification or attainment of the IFPM Selective Placement Factor for this position MUST be attached to your application. Red cards are not acceptable documentation. Currency Requirement: Required to maintain currency once hired into the position. Currency of NWCG qualifications is not required for selection. If not currently qualified, the applicant must provide documented evidence that they have been fully qualified in the past, and are able to regain currency within one year of being hired. Failure to provide this documentation will result in disqualification.
Primary firefighter positions include the following age requirements: Under age 37 -OR- less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service worked in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position -OR- a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and is requesting a waiver to the maximum age requirement -OR-currently occupy a permanent position with primary fire fighter retirement coverage.
For those who do not currently occupy a permanent Federal position covered under primary fire fighter retirement, you must be under age 37; less than age 37 after subtracting the months of Permanent Federal Service in a primary or secondary firefighter/law enforcement position; or a veteran preference eligible, older than age 37 and requesting a waiver to the requirement.
This position has been identified as (HIGH) or (MODERATE) or (LOW) Complexity under the Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) or Forest Service Fire Program Management (FS-FPM) and is subject to selective placement factor requirements contained in the Interagency Fire Program Management (IFPM) Standard and Guide when filling this vacancy. IFPM or FS-FPM selective placement factors are made up of a primary and secondary National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) core Incident Management Qualifications and Required Training. The applicant must possess these qualifications at the applicable complexity level to be considered eligible for this position.
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 primary/rigorous 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.
WORK CAPACITY TEST (WCT) for Wildland Firefighters: This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the ARDUOUS, MODERATE, or LIGHT level is a condition of employment.
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