Embark on a Career in Conservation: Forestry Aid Opportunities with the U.S. Forest Service
Are you looking for a career that takes you out of the office and into the heart of America’s most magnificent landscapes? The U.S. Forest Service is currently seeking motivated individuals to join our team as Forestry Aids (Recreation, Timber, and Range) for the 2027 season. This is an exceptional opportunity to gain foundational experience in federal land management while actively contributing to the health and sustainability of our national forests.
Role Overview
As a Forestry Aid, you will serve as a resource crew member, providing critical support to forest programs. You might find yourself measuring tree heights, restoring damaged campsites, or assisting in range management tasks.
Comparison Table: Potential Work Focus Areas
| Area | Key Activities |
|---|---|
| Timber | Cruising timber, recording growth data, marking trees |
| Recreation | Cleaning trails, monitoring campgrounds, educating public |
| Range/Nature | Resource monitoring, erosion control, vegetation restoration |
Job Responsibilities
Your day-to-day work will vary depending on your specific assignment, but you can expect to:
- Perform field measurements using compasses, chains, and clinometers.
- Maintain wilderness areas by clearing brush, repairing trails, and removing garbage.
- Assist in silviculture activities, including tree growth recording.
- Support "Leave No Trace" educational outreach for forest visitors.
- Collect and document data for inventory and monitoring reports.
Requirements
To be considered for these positions, applicants must:
- Be a U.S. Citizen.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Complete the required background and E-Verify checks.
- Be prepared for field work, which may involve physical labor in various environmental conditions.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage of $17.47. While temporary, the experience gained serves as a significant stepping stone for those pursuing long-term federal careers in natural resources.
How to Apply
- Prepare a high-impact, two-page resume highlighting your relevant work and volunteer history.
- Create your profile on USAJOBS.
- Complete the online application and assessment questionnaire before the October 5, 2026 deadline.
- Upload all required documents, including transcripts if you are qualifying based on education.
If you have a passion for the outdoors and a desire to serve your country by protecting our natural heritage, we encourage you to apply. The 2027 season promises to be an exciting time for our field teams, and we look forward to reviewing your application.
Why This Forestry Aid (Recreation, Timber, Range) Job Matters
Begin your journey into public land management by joining the Forest Service team for the 2027 season and protecting America's most iconic natural resources.
Forestry Aid (Recreation, Timber, Range) Job Overview
The USDA Forest Service is seeking dedicated individuals for temporary Forestry Aid positions. As a crew member, you will play a vital role in the stewardship of national forests, focusing on recreation, timber, and range resource programs. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field while contributing to the preservation and maintenance of our nation's wild places. Whether you are clearing trails, recording timber measurements, or ensuring campground sustainability, your work directly supports the agency's mission to manage and care for over 193 million acres of federal land.
Requirements for Forestry Aid (Recreation, Timber, Range)
- Must be a U.S. citizen or national.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service or exempt.
- Must pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Must undergo an E-Verify employment verification check.
- Must be able to receive salary via direct deposit.
Preferred Qualifications for Forestry Aid (Recreation, Timber, Range)
- Six months of general work experience demonstrating the ability to perform the duties of the position.
- Successful completion of one year of education above high school including at least 6 semester hours in relevant fields like forestry, agriculture, or biological sciences.
- Completion of a specialized technical, military, or government training program related to the work.
- Relevant volunteer experience in parks, conservation, or agricultural settings.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Opportunity to work in diverse ecosystems across the United States.
- ✓Professional training in resource management and field tools.
- ✓Exposure to federal land management policies and practices.
- ✓Access to various professional development networking opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Forestry Aid (Recreation, Timber, Range) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Forestry Aid (Recreation, Timber, Range) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit.
- Gather supporting documents such as transcripts if using education to qualify.
- Submit your application and all required documents electronically through the online portal.
- Monitor your status via your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise and ensure it does not exceed two pages; longer resumes will result in disqualification.
- Ensure all uploaded documents are under 5MB and in supported formats like PDF or TXT.
- Review your application for accuracy to prevent being flagged for inflated qualifications.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Turn on email notifications in your USAJOBS profile to receive updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the pay rate for this position?
The pay rate for this position is $17.47 per hour.
Is this a permanent position?
No, this is a temporary appointment, typically for up to six months or up to one year, with the possibility of extension depending on funding and project needs.
Can I apply to multiple locations?
Yes, by selecting 'Location Negotiable' or applying to this announcement, you are signaling interest in the duty locations listed.
What is the expected start date?
The start date is generally expected to fall between November 15, 2026, and December 27, 2026.
Is housing provided?
Availability of government housing varies significantly by location and is not guaranteed.
Is there promotion potential?
This specific position is currently designated as GS-3 with no promotion potential attached to this specific announcement.
Job from Forest Service
The U.S. Forest Service, an agency of the Department of Agriculture, manages over 193 million acres of public land. From conducting scientific research to maintaining wilderness trails and protecting natural habitats, our work is vast and critical. Employees at the Forest Service are stewards of the environment, ensuring that natural resources remain vibrant for future generations to enjoy.