Embark on an Adventure: Careers as an Animal Packer with the U.S. Forest Service
Do you have a passion for the great outdoors, a deep respect for working animals, and a desire to contribute to the preservation of our nation's forests? The U.S. Forest Service is currently seeking motivated individuals for Animal Packer positions. This role is more than just a job; it is a vital part of the logistical backbone that sustains wilderness research and conservation efforts. If you are ready for a career that takes you off the beaten path, this may be your perfect opportunity.
Job Responsibilities
As an Animal Packer, your daily duties are critical to remote operations. Responsibilities include:
- Logistics: Safely packing, balancing, and rigging equipment onto pack animals for transport to remote backcountry sites.
- Animal Care: Grooming, feeding, and providing medical attention to horses and mules.
- Maintenance: Upkeep of pack tack, saddles, and supporting infrastructure like fences and corrals.
- Trail Work: Assisting in manual labor for trail construction and maintenance.
- Safety: Navigating rugged mountainous terrain and ensuring the well-being of the stock, self, and equipment.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet several baseline requirements:
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must successfully complete a background investigation.
- Must register for Selective Service (if applicable).
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen/National |
| Resume Limit | Maximum 2 Pages |
| Age Requirement | 18+ Years old |
| Travel | Expected (Remote Locations) |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive wage ranging from $21.18 to $26.68 per hour. Pay rates may be adjusted based on your specific duty location, as the cost of living varies significantly across the country. Working for the Forest Service offers the unique reward of working in some of the most breathtaking environments in the United States.
How to Apply
Applying to a federal position requires precision. Follow these tips to maximize your chances:
- Format Your Resume: Stick strictly to the two-page limit.
- Documentation: Ensure all documents are clear, legible, and in a compatible format (PDF is highly recommended).
- Deadlines: Applications must be received by the closing date. Given the volume of applicants, we encourage you to apply early.
Serving as an Animal Packer is a challenging and highly rewarding way to spend your season. You will gain invaluable experience, develop unique skills in animal husbandry and wilderness logistics, and make a tangible difference in the health of our national forests. If you are ready to take on this challenge, start your application today.
Why This Animal Packer Job Matters
Turn your love for the outdoors into a vital career—help manage our nation’s backcountry by becoming an Animal Packer with the U.S. Forest Service.
Animal Packer Job Overview
The U.S. Forest Service is seeking dedicated individuals to join our team as Animal Packers. In this rugged and rewarding role, you will be responsible for transporting essential supplies, tools, and equipment into remote backcountry locations using horses and mules. This position is ideal for those who are passionate about wilderness preservation, possess strong animal handling skills, and are comfortable working in challenging, unpredictable outdoor environments.
Requirements for Animal Packer
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Willingness to live and work in remote, rugged, and unpredictable backcountry conditions.
- Resumes must not exceed two pages; excess length will result in disqualification.
Preferred Qualifications for Animal Packer
- Proven experience in packing and balancing loads on pack animals.
- Demonstrated ability to handle, groom, and provide basic medical care for horses and mules.
- Proficiency in maintaining tack, saddles, and related packing equipment.
- Skill in operating heavy-duty trucks and towing trailers safely.
- Experience in trail maintenance and manual labor in outdoor settings.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Opportunity to work in America's most iconic natural landscapes.
- ✓Competitive hourly wage with locality adjustments.
- ✓Valuable experience within the federal land management system.
- ✓Contribution to national conservation and sustainability efforts.
💡 How to Apply Animal Packer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Animal Packer Job
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your relevant experience and work schedule.
- Gather necessary documentation, including transcripts if applicable, and ensure all files are under 5MB.
- Log into the official application portal via the provided link.
- Complete the online Assessment Questionnaire accurately.
- Submit your application and all required documents before the closing date of November 12, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the major duties listed in the job announcement.
- Proofread your application carefully; inflated qualifications may negatively impact your rating.
- If you require a reasonable accommodation for the application process, contact the Agency representative immediately.
- Use standard document formats such as PDF or Word, and avoid Adobe Portfolios.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of an Animal Packer?
An Animal Packer is responsible for transporting equipment and supplies to remote backcountry areas using pack animals, alongside maintaining stock and trail facilities.
Is government housing provided?
Availability of government housing varies significantly by location and is not guaranteed for every position.
Are there strict formatting requirements for my resume?
Yes. Your resume must not exceed two pages. Resumes exceeding this limit will be automatically removed from consideration.
Job from Forest Service
The U.S. Forest Service, an agency of the Department of Agriculture, manages 193 million acres of National Forest and Grassland. From scientific research to providing technical assistance to state foresters, the agency is tasked with the awesome responsibility of protecting our natural resources. Employees join a team dedicated to stewardship, sustainability, and public service.