Become an Engineering Equipment Operator with the USDA Forest Service

Are you looking for a career that takes you off the beaten path and into the heart of America’s most scenic wilderness? The USDA Forest Service is looking for skilled Engineering Equipment Operators to join our fire management crews. This is more than just a job; it is a critical role that protects our communities and preserves our precious natural resources.

Job Responsibilities

As an Engineering Equipment Operator, your primary duty is to operate heavy machinery in support of fire suppression. Key tasks include:

Operating dozers and other heavy equipment to construct fire lines.
Managing fuel loads by clearing brush, rocks, and tree stumps.
Transporting heavy equipment safely to various work sites.
Performing mechanical maintenance to ensure equipment reliability.
Collaborating with fire management teams to analyze fire behavior and terrain.

Requirements

You must be prepared for the physical and technical demands of this role. Candidates must:

Hold a valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
Pass the Moderate Work Capacity Test (2-mile hike in under 30 minutes with a 25lb pack).
Submit to pre-employment and random drug testing as part of the DOT/Forest Service testing program.
Meet Federal Wildland Firefighter medical standards.

Feature	Requirement Detail
CDL Requirement	Class A or Class B
Fitness Test	Moderate (2 miles/30 mins/25 lbs)
Drug Screening	Pre-employment & Random
Travel	Occasional overnight required

Salary Overview

The position offers a competitive starting rate of $33.37 per hour. Please note that pay rates can fluctuate depending on your specific duty location. Always consult the OPM pay scales for your region.

Benefits and Growth

While this is a temporary appointment, it offers invaluable experience for those looking to build a career in land management, fire science, or heavy equipment operation. You will gain exposure to diverse landscapes and build a professional network within the federal government.

Application Tips

Keep it Concise: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. Omit unnecessary information and focus on your equipment operation experience.
Documentation Matters: Ensure your transcripts and licenses are attached and legible.
Early Submission: Don't wait until the last minute. Technical glitches can happen; get your application in early.

If you have the skills, the grit, and the passion for conservation, this role offers a rewarding opportunity to serve the public. We encourage all qualified applicants to review the requirements and submit their applications for this upcoming season.

Why This Engineering Equipment Operator Job Matters

Take control of the landscape and protect our national forests. Join the USDA Forest Service as an Engineering Equipment Operator and power the front lines of wildland fire suppression.

Engineering Equipment Operator Job Overview

The USDA Forest Service is seeking skilled heavy equipment operators to serve as vital members of fire management crews. This temporary role focuses on using heavy machinery to construct fire lines, manage fuel loads, and support critical initial attack operations on wildland fires. You will work across diverse terrains and play a key role in safeguarding our nation's 193 million acres of forest land. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to environmental stewardship while operating in some of the most dynamic environments in the country.

Requirements for Engineering Equipment Operator

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must possess a valid Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
Must successfully pass a pre-employment drug test and participate in random testing as a Test Designated Position (TDP).
Must pass the Work Capacity Test (WCT) at the Moderate level (two-mile hike with a 25-pound pack in under 30 minutes).
Must meet the Federal Wildland Firefighter Medical Qualification Standards.
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must undergo a background investigation and fingerprint check.

Preferred Qualifications for Engineering Equipment Operator

Proven experience in operating heavy equipment to push, pull, or load materials like sand, earth, and gravel.
Demonstrated ability to perform preventative maintenance and minor repairs on mechanical equipment.
Prior knowledge of fire behavior, fuels, topography, and weather patterns.
Experience working effectively in both team-based and independent fire suppression settings.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly compensation.
✓Hands-on experience in public land management.
✓Contribution to national conservation and wildfire mitigation efforts.
✓Exposure to diverse geographic regions across the United States.
✓Training in federal wildland fire safety protocols.

💡 How to Apply Engineering Equipment Operator Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Engineering Equipment Operator Job

Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, highlighting relevant experience and skills.
Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online Assessment Questionnaire.
Upload all required documentation, including transcripts if applicable.
Submit your complete application package electronically before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit to avoid disqualification.
Double-check that all uploaded documents are in accepted formats (PDF, TXT, DOC, etc.) and under 5MB.
Verify that all relevant experience (paid or volunteer) is clearly described with hours worked per week.
Check your email notifications and monitor your USAJOBS account status regularly.
Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the physical requirement for this job?

You must pass the Work Capacity Test (WCT) at the 'Moderate' level, which requires completing a 2-mile hike with a 25-pound pack in 30 minutes or less.

Is this a permanent position?

No, this is a temporary appointment, typically lasting up to 6 months or NTE (Not-to-Exceed) 1 year, with potential for extension based on needs and funding.

Do I need a specific driver's license?

Yes, you must hold a Class A or Class B Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to operate the required equipment and transport it to job sites.

Job from Forest Service

The USDA Forest Service manages over 193 million acres of public land. From fire research to silviculture and recreation management, the agency is dedicated to sustaining the health, diversity, and productivity of our nation's forests. As part of a fire crew, you will be on the front lines, utilizing your technical expertise to support initial attack operations and long-term land health.