Launch Your Career: Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) at the USDA Forest Service

Are you looking for a career that combines logistics, communication, and environmental stewardship? The USDA Forest Service is currently recruiting for Forestry Technicians (Fire Dispatch) for the 2027 season. This role is essential to our mission of protecting our nation's wildlands and supporting the personnel on the front lines.

Job Responsibilities

In this high-pressure, rewarding role, you will be the "nerve center" of fire operations. Your daily tasks will include:

Resource Management: Receiving and tracking requests for equipment, personnel, and supplies.
Communication: Managing telecommunications during emergency incidents.
Data Accuracy: Processing and inputting critical incident data into automated dispatch systems.
Reporting: Handling smoke permits, spot weather forecasts, and fire incident reports.

Requirements & Qualifications

To succeed, you must meet basic eligibility standards for federal employment, including U.S. citizenship and registration with the Selective Service.

Qualification Type	Minimum Requirement
Experience	6 months general + 6 months specialized experience
Education	2 years of college (12+ credits in natural resources)
Physical	Must meet arduous duty physical standards

Salary & Benefits

This position offers a competitive starting wage of $23.20 per hour. As a federal employee, you will also have access to comprehensive benefits including health insurance, federal retirement planning, and life insurance.

How to Apply

Register: Create an account on the official federal hiring portal.
Documents: Have your resume (2-page limit) and transcripts ready.
Assessment: Answer the questionnaire honestly.
Submission: Submit your package electronically before the closing deadline.

Becoming a Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) is more than just a job; it is a critical contribution to American wildfire safety. If you are detail-oriented and ready to work in a dynamic environment, we invite you to start your application today.

Why This Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) Job Matters

Launch your career in wildland fire management and become a critical lifeline for emergency operations across the nation.

Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) Job Overview

The USDA Forest Service is seeking dedicated, mission-driven individuals to serve as Forestry Technicians (Fire Dispatch). In this vital role, you will act as the communications hub for fire suppression and emergency response operations. You will support incident management by tracking personnel, equipment, and critical logistical data, ensuring that resources reach those who need them most during wildfire events. This is a unique opportunity to gain foundational experience in federal land management while working at the heart of wildland fire response.

Requirements for Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch)

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 pre-employment and random drug screening program.
Must undergo a background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
Must meet the Federal Wildland Firefighter Medical Standards for arduous duty.
Must successfully pass the Work Capacity Test for Wildland Firefighters.
Must hold or be eligible to obtain a valid state driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications for Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch)

Six months of general experience demonstrating the ability to perform basic tasks.
Six months of specialized experience in a dispatch or administrative office environment.
Successful completion of 2 years of education with at least 12 semester hours in forestry, agriculture, range management, or related natural resource sciences.
Experience handling resource requests and maintaining status tracking systems for emergency incidents.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal retirement benefits
✓Eligibility for health, dental, and vision insurance coverage
✓Life insurance options
✓Access to federal employee assistance programs
✓Opportunities for professional training and development in fire and aviation operations

💡 How to Apply Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) Job

Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS platform.
Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your experience as it relates to the major duties (limit to 2 pages).
Gather supporting documentation including unofficial college transcripts if using education to qualify.
Click the apply button on the job announcement page.
Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
Upload your resume and all required documents before the closing date.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise and strictly follow the two-page maximum rule.
Clearly define your work experience, including dates of employment and hours worked per week.
Ensure all uploaded documents are in an approved format like PDF or Word.
Apply well before the deadline to account for potential system delays.
Review the Forest Service tips guide for applicants before starting your submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for telework?

No, this position is not eligible for telework due to the operational nature of dispatch duties.

What is the expected start date for this role?

The expected start date is between April 18, 2027, and June 13, 2027, for the FY2027 season.

Do I need to be a wildland firefighter to apply?

While you must meet medical and physical standards for arduous duty, the primary role is dispatch/logistics, not active fire suppression.

Job from Forest Service

The USDA Forest Service manages 193 million acres of National Forests and Grasslands. We don't just manage timber; we facilitate research, protect watersheds, and support the courageous men and women who handle fire suppression. As a Forestry Technician, you are joining a vast network dedicated to conservation and public service.