Launch Your Career as a Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch)
Are you looking for a career that combines emergency management, logistics, and environmental stewardship? The USDA Forest Service is currently hiring for the position of Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch). This role is essential to the safety and success of wildland fire suppression efforts across the country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Fire Dispatcher, your primary duty is to ensure the smooth flow of information and resources during fire incidents. Key tasks include:
- Resource Management: Receiving, filling, and tracking requests for equipment, personnel, and supplies.
- Incident Reporting: Collating and submitting fire reports, weather data, and smoke permits.
- Communication: Operating complex telecommunications systems to maintain contact with field crews.
- Data Integration: Inputting and assessing data within fire-related computer applications.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet specific standards:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Experience: Prior wildland firefighting experience is required.
- Physical/Medical: May require a physical or medical examination.
- Drug Testing: As a Testing Designated Position (TDP), you will undergo pre-employment and random drug testing.
Salary and Comparison
Pay for this position is set at a rate of $23.20 per hour. Below is a comparison of typical temporary federal entry-level positions:
| Position Title | Base Pay (Hourly) | Key Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Forestry Technician (Fire) | $23.20 | Fire Experience |
| Administrative Support | Varies | Clerical Experience |
| Biological Aid | Varies | Science Background |
Application Tips
- Watch the Length: Your resume must not exceed two pages. Overly long resumes will cause your application to be rejected.
- Documentation: Ensure all transcripts are included if you are using education to meet qualification requirements.
- Formatting: Use standard formats like PDF or Word. Avoid Adobe Portfolios or encrypted files.
Being a Fire Dispatcher is more than just a job; it is a critical support role for those on the front lines of wildland fire suppression. If you are organized, calm under pressure, and ready to serve, apply to the USDA Forest Service today.
Why This Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) Job Matters
Become the heartbeat of emergency response: Join the Forest Service as a Forestry Technician and play a critical role in wildland fire dispatch operations across the nation.
Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) Job Overview
The USDA Forest Service is seeking dedicated individuals to serve as Forestry Technicians (Fire Dispatch) to support essential wildland fire suppression and emergency response efforts. In this pivotal role, you will act as a vital communication link, managing resource requests, tracking fire suppression teams, and processing critical weather and incident data. This position is perfect for detail-oriented individuals who thrive in fast-paced environments and want to contribute to the management and safety of our nation's public lands.
Requirements for Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must successfully pass an E-Verify employment check.
- Must be willing to live and work in remote, unpredictable locations.
- Subject to pre-employment and ongoing random drug testing.
- Prior wildland firefighting experience is required.
- Must undergo a background investigation and fingerprint check.
Preferred Qualifications for Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch)
- Experience in a dispatching office handling equipment and personnel requests.
- Background in fire suppression or emergency incident operations.
- Familiarity with data entry for incident qualification or reporting systems.
- Demonstrated ability to follow complex procedures under high-pressure situations.
- Education in forestry, natural resources, wildland fire science, or related agricultural fields.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary with locality pay adjustments.
- ✓Opportunities for professional training in aviation and fire dispatch.
- ✓Contribution to public land stewardship and environmental conservation.
- ✓Stable federal employment pathways.
💡 How to Apply Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) Job
- Review the full job announcement and requirements.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your relevant experience.
- Ensure all education transcripts are ready if using education to qualify.
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Apply online before 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date.
- Submit all required documents electronically in accepted formats (PDF, TXT, DOC, etc.).
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly addresses both general and specialized experience as requested.
- Double-check that your resume is exactly two pages or fewer; longer resumes will be disqualified.
- Verify that your uploaded documents are legible and not password-protected or encrypted.
- Check your USAJOBS application status regularly for updates.
- Turn on email notifications in your profile to stay informed about your application status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of this position?
You will serve as a fire dispatcher, handling logistics, communication, and resource tracking for wildland fire and emergency incidents.
Is travel required for this job?
Yes, the position may require occasional overnight travel for fire suppression or other fire-related assignments.
Can I apply if I don't have a degree?
Yes, you can qualify through a combination of relevant experience and education, or through direct experience alone.
Is this a permanent position?
No, this is a temporary position with a potential duration of up to 6 to 12 months, though extensions may be possible depending on business needs.
Job from Forest Service
The USDA Forest Service manages over 193 million acres of national forests and grasslands. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of these lands for present and future generations. By joining our team, you contribute to a legacy of conservation and emergency management that touches every corner of the United States.