Become a Key Part of Our Team: Packer Positions with the USDA Forest Service

Are you looking for a hands-on career that directly supports the stewardship of our nation's lands? The USDA Forest Service is currently hiring for Packer positions to support our critical logistics and supply operations. This role is perfect for detail-oriented individuals who thrive in a fast-paced environment and want to contribute to the important work of maintaining our National Forests.

Job Responsibilities

As a Packer, your daily tasks will be diverse and impactful. You won't just be boxing items; you will be managing the logistics chain that keeps the Forest Service operational. Responsibilities include:

Kit Assembly: Collating and building specialized kits according to National Fire Equipment System (NFES) standards.
Inventory Management: Inspecting items for accuracy and maintaining records of equipment issued.
Technical Packing: Utilizing heat sealers, shrink-wrap machines, and specialized crating for items of varying fragility and weight.
Equipment Maintenance: Cleaning, testing, and refurbishing equipment to ensure it remains in peak working condition.
Safety Compliance: Handling hazardous materials according to federal and international shipping regulations.

Comparison Table: Packer Duties

Task Type	Focus Area	Goal
Assembly	Kit Building	Efficiency & Accuracy
Maintenance	Refurbishment	Extending Equipment Life
Safety	Hazardous Materials	Regulatory Compliance

Requirements

To be considered for this position, you must meet several federal employment criteria:

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
Compliance: If applicable, you must be registered with the Selective Service.
Verification: Must pass E-Verify and background adjudication.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive hourly rate of $28.60. Please note that rates may vary based on your specific duty location. This is a temporary appointment intended to support the FY2027 hiring season, with a duration of up to six months or one year.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides unique benefits, including:

Hands-on experience with national supply systems.
Networking opportunities within the Department of Agriculture.
Contribution to significant environmental and emergency response missions.

Application Tips

Resume Length: Stick to the two-page limit strictly. Exceeding this will remove you from consideration.
Clarity: Ensure your resume highlights your experience with tools, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols.
Formatting: Use common file types like PDF or DOC. Do not upload Adobe Portfolios as they are often incompatible with federal systems.

If you are ready to apply your technical skills to a role that truly matters, the USDA Forest Service is waiting for you. This Packer role offers a rare opportunity to see the results of your labor in action as you support teams protecting our most valuable natural resources.

Why This Packer Job Matters

Join the USDA Forest Service as a dedicated Packer and play a vital role in maintaining the essential logistics that support our nation's forests and emergency response teams.

Packer Job Overview

The USDA Forest Service is seeking hardworking individuals to serve as Packers. In this role, you will be responsible for the assembly, inventory, and refurbishment of mission-critical kits, including specialized equipment for fire suppression and field operations. Your work ensures that teams in the field have the reliable supplies they need, when they need them, to manage and protect our natural resources.

Requirements for Packer

Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service or be exempt.
Ability to pass a background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
Willingness to receive salary via direct deposit.
Successfully pass an E-Verify employment check.

Preferred Qualifications for Packer

Demonstrated ability to perform manual tasks with precision and minimal supervision.
Experience using technical tools, measuring instruments, and packaging equipment.
Understanding of safety protocols related to handling hazardous and non-hazardous materials.
Ability to interpret complex specifications and follow detailed packing configurations.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal hourly pay ($28.60/hr)
✓Opportunity to contribute to national conservation and fire protection efforts
✓Hands-on technical training and professional development
✓Gain federal work experience with the Department of Agriculture

💡 How to Apply Packer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Packer Job

Review the full vacancy announcement in detail.
Prepare a concise resume (must be 2 pages or less).
Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online Assessment Questionnaire.
Upload all required documentation (transcripts, SF-50 if applicable).
Submit your application by the closing date of November 12, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly details your relevant experience, including hours worked per week and specific dates.
Keep your resume strictly under the two-page limit to avoid automatic disqualification.
Double-check that all uploaded files are in acceptable formats (PDF, TXT, DOC, etc.) and are under 5MB.
Apply early to ensure all documents are received before the midnight Eastern Time deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the expected start date for this position?

The temporary hiring season for this role typically runs between April 18, 2027, and June 13, 2027.

Can I work remotely or telework?

No, this position is not eligible for telework; duties must be performed on-site at the designated facility.

Is the salary negotiable?

The hourly rate is set at $28.60. However, local cost-of-living adjustments may apply based on the final duty location.

How many hours a week will I work?

*A: This is a full-time temporary position; standard work schedules will be discussed during the interview process.*

Is there potential for permanent employment?

*A: This is a temporary position; however, it is a great way to gain experience and potentially network for future opportunities within the agency.*

Job from Forest Service

The Forest Service, under the Department of Agriculture, manages over 193 million acres of public land. From research and development to fire suppression and recreation management, the agency works tirelessly to ensure the sustainability of our natural resources. As a Packer, you will be part of the team that ensures field units have the equipment necessary to perform their duties safely and effectively.