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Temporary Forest Fire Watch Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Building Grounds Support

Grayling, MI ยท On-site

$16.50/hr

Providing fire watch and confined space duties as needed * Working closely with Maintenance as ... temporary role, tentatively planned: Monday-Friday 6:00AM-2:30PM, Mid May - Mid August ...

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 ยท 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

MS ยท 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 ...

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Watch Commander

Spartanburg, SC ยท On-site

$17 - $21/hr

Coordinate the initial reception and integration of law enforcement, fire, EMS, HAZMAT, and other ... Support Executive Protection and security assignments on a temporary-duty basis when required ...

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Temporary Forest Fire Watch information

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

As of Aug 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.

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 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 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 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.
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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. 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.

RANGE AND FORESTRY MONITORING SPECIALIST

Department of Forestry & Fire Protection

West Sacramento, CA โ€ข On-site

$7.8K - $10K/mo

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Please Note: Due to postal service delays, electronic submission of application is recommended.
Please see the Duty Statement link, found in the Additional Documents section, for more information.
Applicants are highly encouraged to complete a Recruitment Questionnaire, located at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HLYSH8V
Effective July 1, 2025, state employees are subject to temporary salary reductions ranging from 2% to 4.62% in exchange for Personal Leave Program (PLP) hours. Please note that the salary ranges listed in this Job Control may not reflect these reductions associated with the 2025 Personal Leave Program. Please follow the link for more information regarding the 2025 Personal Leave program: http://hrmanual.calhr.ca.gov/Home/ManualItem/1/2113.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
โ€ข This position will be headquartered in Sacramento, if you are interested in applying for the position in Sacramento please see JC - 525039.
โ€ข Duties involve field work requiring physical performance calling for above-average ability, endurance, and superior condition, including occasional demand for extraordinarily strenuous activities in emergencies, under adverse environmental conditions, and over extended periods of time; requires running, walking difficult climbing, jumping, twisting, bending, and lifting over 25 pounds; and the pace of work is typically set by the emergency.
โ€ข Hybrid Telework: This position is eligible for a hybrid telework option, in accordance with CAL FIRE's telework policy, and will be required to report to the office as needed/required. The successful candidate must reside in California upon appointment.
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST (SPECIALIST)
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-525039
Position #(s):
541-001-0765-904
Working Title:
RANGE AND FORESTRY MONITORING SPECIALIST
Classification:
SENIOR ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST (SPECIALIST) $7,820.00 - $10,732.00
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
1
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
12 Month Limited Term - Full Time
Facility:
Sacramento HQ
Department Information The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) is California's fire department and resource management agency. The organization is comprised of nearly 14,000 permanent and seasonal employees. The mission of the Department is to serve and safeguard the people and protect the property and resources of California.
When you join CAL FIRE, you join a family of employees that function as a team. You will build trust and friendship with your co-workers, as together you respond to emergencies and challenging situations. CAL FIRE provides employees with a variety of career choices and opportunities. CAL FIRE offers well-paying careers and opportunities for advancement. We hope that you will consider a rewarding and challenging career with CAL FIRE!
Special Requirements If using education to meet Minimum Qualification, please attach your degree or transcripts.
All job applicants must provide their employment history on the application form (State Application STD 678) rather than attaching a resume to the form, otherwise the application may be considered incomplete.
1. Do NOT include ANY confidential information on any documents you submit for a job vacancy, such as your State application, resume, or educational transcripts. Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents includes, but is not limited to, your Social Security Number (SSN), birthdate, student identification number, driver's license number (unless required), basis of eligibility examination results, LEAP status, marital status, and age. Confidential information on the first page of applications submitted electronically online, such as Easy ID number, SSN, examination related information, and driver's license number will automatically be redacted upon submission.
2. Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are meeting Minimum Qualifications with education, you must include your unofficial transcripts/diploma for verification. Official transcripts may be required upon appointment. If it is determined a candidate does not meet the Minimum Qualifications, the candidate will be withheld from the eligibility list, rendering them inactive and ineligible to be hired for the position. Candidates who have been withheld may file an appeal with the State Personnel Board.
The minimum qualifications can be found in the Senior Environmental Scientist (Specialist) classification specifications.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 8/15/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Forestry & Fire Protection
N/A
Attn: Classification and Hiring Unit - Attn: A. Roberson
710 Riverpoint Court, Suite 250
West Sacramento , CA 95605
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Forestry & Fire Protection
N/A
Classification and Hiring Unit - Attn: A. Roberson
710 Riverpoint Court, Suite 250
West Sacramento , CA 95605
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is required and must be included.
  • Degree and/or School Transcripts
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Benefits Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Contact Information
The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Hiring Unit Contact:
Alexandra La Plante
(000) -
Alexandra.LaPlante@fire.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Reasonable Accommodation Coordinator
(916) 767-8359
ReasonableAccommodations@fire.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Filing a job application "within the time" shall mean: applications must be postmarked by the United States Postal Service (USPS) or depositing with a parcel delivery or courier service no later than the final filing date specified by the job vacancy announcement, provided that the parcel contains proof of a timely deposit with the parcel delivery or courier service or
- Date stamped at the appropriate office of the appointing power no later than the final filing date specified by the job vacancy announcement
or
- Electronically transmitted no later than 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time on the final filing date specified on the job vacancy announcement.
For the purposes of determining whether an application has been filed within the time as set forth above, any dates printed on mobile barcodes or equivalent mobile print technology shall not be considered postmarks and, as such, are not acceptable proof of the date the application was filed.
โ€ข This is a 12-month limited-term position that may be extended to 24 months with the possibility of becoming permanent.
ADDITIONAL APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
A completed State Application (STD. 678), a Resume, and any other relevant documents (e.g. transcript copies, copies of degree(s), cover letter, etc.) should be submitted electronically via your CalCareer Account, by U.S. mail, or by dropping your application package off. Both addresses are listed in this Job Advertisement.
Please reference Job Control 525039 and indicate the basis of your eligibility in the Examination(s) or Job Title(s) section on the STD. 678. SROA and surplus candidates should submit a copy of their letter with their application. Please note you can only apply for one Job Control per application submission.
Candidate may be selected by Resume Review.
Temporary Appointments (TAU) may be considered if conditions warrant. TAU may be made to anyone regardless of eligibility. TAU may not exceed 9 months and will require eligibility to be obtained through an examination process in order to transition to a permanent or limited-term appointment.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.