Launch Your Career as a Forestry Technician (Dispatch) with the USDA Forest Service
Are you looking to play a critical role in protecting our nation's natural resources? The USDA Forest Service is currently recruiting for Forestry Technician (Dispatch) positions. This is an exciting opportunity for individuals with experience in wildland fire and emergency management to serve in a vital capacity.
Job Responsibilities
As a Forestry Technician (Dispatch), you will handle complex, high-pressure logistics. Your key duties include:
- Implementing standard procedures for the mobilization and demobilization of firefighting assets.
- Coordinating ground and air transportation for resources.
- Monitoring daily fire situations and keeping leadership apprised of resource availability.
- Maintaining accurate records of equipment, supplies, and personnel status.
- Supporting the implementation of Geographic Area Mobilization Guides.
Requirements
This position requires specific physical and professional qualifications. Candidates must:
- Hold U.S. Citizenship.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Meet the Federal Wildland Firefighter Medical Standards.
- Pass a Work Capacity Test (WCT).
- Submit to pre-employment and random drug testing.
Salary and Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Level | GS-07 |
| Base Pay Rate | $29.98 per hour |
| Schedule | Full-time/Temporary |
| Job Type | Wildland Fire/Dispatch |
Benefits
Working for the Forest Service offers more than just a paycheck. You gain valuable experience in one of the most respected land management agencies in the world, contributing to the safety of our communities and the preservation of our forests.
Application Tips
To ensure your application is successful, keep your resume concise (under two pages) and detail-oriented. Clearly map your experience to the duties described in the job announcement. Double-check that all uploaded files are in a readable, non-encrypted format like PDF or Word.
If you have a background in wildland fire or logistics, this dispatch position is a rewarding way to serve your country. Prepare your materials carefully and apply by the November 12, 2026, deadline to be considered for this critical role.
Why This Forestry Technician (Dispatch) Job Matters
Join the front lines of wildland fire management and become a critical link in the nation's emergency response network.
Forestry Technician (Dispatch) Job Overview
The USDA Forest Service is seeking dedicated individuals for Forestry Technician (Dispatch) roles. These positions are essential to fire management operations, functioning within Geographic Area Coordination Centers (GACC) to oversee the mobilization, tracking, and demobilization of firefighting resources. As a key member of the team, you will facilitate the movement of personnel, aircraft, and equipment to handle wildland fires and all-hazard emergencies across the country.
Requirements for Forestry Technician (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 successfully pass an E-Verify employment check.
- Must be able to pass a pre-employment and random drug screening as a Testing Designated Position.
- Must meet Federal Wildland Firefighter Medical Standards for arduous duty.
- Must pass the appropriate level of the Work Capacity Test (WCT).
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-6 level, or appropriate graduate-level education.
Preferred Qualifications for Forestry Technician (Dispatch)
- Prior hands-on experience in wildland fire suppression or dispatch.
- Proficiency in coordinating inter-agency resource movement.
- Experience working with complex mobilization and demobilization plans.
- Knowledge of aviation operations and government-contracted aircraft procedures.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Opportunity to participate in Federal Retirement systems (FERS/CSRS).
- ✓Potential for career growth within the USDA Forest Service.
- ✓Contribution to national environmental and community safety.
- ✓Experience in high-stakes, professional emergency management.
💡 How to Apply Forestry Technician (Dispatch) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Forestry Technician (Dispatch) Job
- Review the full USAJOBS announcement and confirm eligibility.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed the mandatory two-page limit.
- Gather college transcripts if using education to qualify.
- Log in to your USAJOBS account to complete the assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation in an accepted format (PDF, DOC, etc.).
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 p.m. ET deadline on November 12, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Ensure your work experience section clearly highlights your specific duties and hours worked per week.
- Verify your uploaded documents in the agency's staffing system after submission.
- Start your application early to allow time for technical troubleshooting.
- Focus on describing your experience in mobilizing resources, equipment, and aircraft.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Forestry Technician (Dispatch)?
Dispatchers serve as the communications and logistics hub for fire management. They track the availability of resources like crews, aircraft, and equipment and mobilize them to fire incidents nationwide.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this position is not eligible for telework and requires on-site presence at a designated duty location.
What if I do not have a degree?
You may qualify through specialized experience equivalent to the GS-6 level. Education is not mandatory if you meet the professional experience requirements.
What is the expected start date?
The anticipated start window is between April 18, 2027, and June 13, 2027.
Is this a permanent position?
This is a temporary appointment, though extensions may be possible depending on agency needs.
Job from Forest Service
The USDA Forest Service manages 193 million acres of public land. Their mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation’s forests and grasslands. Dispatchers are the "eyes and ears" of these forests, ensuring that fire crews, aircraft, and equipment are exactly where they need to be to combat wildland fires and manage all-hazard emergencies.