1

Temporary Forest Fire Watch Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Security

Hernando, MS

$15 - $18.50/hr

... fire watch duties as needed. Physically capable of performing repetitive tasks for long hours such ... We're a global leader in low-carbon forest products like lumber, pulp, paper, wood pellets, and ...

Laborer FM

Donaldsonville, LA · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Oversee and manage a crew primarily consisting of Laborer and Fire watch personnel ... temporary structures. - Load, unload, and identify building materials, machinery, and tools, and ...

Fire Watchman

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Watch over the welding structural framework to prevent and address any potential hazards ... If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical ...

Laborer FM

Donaldsonville, LA

$15.75 - $20/hr

Oversee and manage a crew primarily consisting of Laborer and Fire watch personnel ... temporary structures. - Load, unload, and identify building materials, machinery, and tools, and ...

Security

Hermanville, MS

$13 - $15.75/hr

... fire watch duties as needed. What makes you a great fit: * Physically capable of performing ... Why Canfor? We're a global leader in low-carbon forest products like lumber, pulp, paper, wood ...

Security

Hermanville, MS

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

... fire watch duties as needed. What makes you a great fit: * Physically capable of performing ... Why Canfor? We're a global leader in low-carbon forest products like lumber, pulp, paper, wood ...

Security

MS · On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

... fire watch duties as needed. What makes you a great fit: * Physically capable of performing ... Why Canfor? We're a global leader in low-carbon forest products like lumber, pulp, paper, wood ...

Security

Hermanville, MS · On-site

$13.25 - $16.25/hr

... fire watch duties as needed. What makes you a great fit: * Physically capable of performing ... Why Canfor? We're a global leader in low-carbon forest products like lumber, pulp, paper, wood ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Temporary Forest Fire Watch information

See salary details

$11

$18

$30

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

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary forest fire watch in the United States is $18.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How hard is it to get a job as a firewatch?

Getting a job as a temporary forest fire watch typically requires basic outdoor skills, good observation abilities, and sometimes a certification in wildfire safety. The position often has minimal formal education requirements but may be competitive depending on the location and season, with some employers preferring prior experience or relevant training. Physical fitness and the ability to work in remote, outdoor environments are also important factors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Temporary Forest Fire Watch, and why are they important?

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 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.

What are Temporary Forest Fire Watch positions?

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.

How to become a forest fire watcher?

To become a forest fire watcher, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should have good observation skills and physical fitness. Training is often provided on the job, covering fire detection, safety procedures, and use of communication tools. Some positions may require certification in wildfire safety or first aid, and work often involves outdoor conditions during fire season.

Do Firewatch jobs still exist?

Yes, firewatch jobs still exist and are commonly available during wildfire seasons. These positions typically involve monitoring forested areas for fire hazards, often requiring skills in observation and communication, and may require certifications such as wildfire safety training. They are usually temporary and seasonal roles focused on fire prevention and early detection.

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.

How much does a forest firewatch make?

A forest fire watch typically earns between $12 and $20 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to $40,000 depending on experience, location, and employer. The role often requires outdoor work, vigilance, and sometimes certification in fire safety or first aid.
More about Temporary Forest Fire Watch jobs
What cities are hiring for Temporary Forest Fire Watch jobs? Cities with the most Temporary Forest Fire Watch job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Forest Fire Watch jobs? The most popular types of Forest Fire Watch jobs are:
What states have the most Temporary Forest Fire Watch jobs? States with the most job openings for Temporary Forest Fire Watch jobs include:
Infographic showing various Temporary Forest Fire Watch job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 44% Full Time, 48% Part Time, 2% Contract, 3% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,693 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Supervisory Wildland Firefighter (Helitack)

Recruitment and Hiring | US Forest Service

Richfield, UT • On-site

$62K/yr

Other

Retirement

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

These positions are located at 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.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GW-07: 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: 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). 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 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 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