Launch Your Career: Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) with the U.S. Forest Service
Are you looking for a career that combines technical logistics with the high-stakes world of wildland fire suppression? The USDA Forest Service is currently seeking qualified applicants for the Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) role. This position is ideal for individuals who thrive in fast-paced environments and want to play an essential role in protecting our nation's natural resources.
Job Responsibilities
As a Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch), you serve as the central hub of communication and coordination. Your daily tasks will include:
- Resource Management: Receiving and tracking complex requests for fire crews, aircraft, and equipment.
- Emergency Communication: Monitoring radio systems and maintaining detailed logs of all field activities.
- Data Reporting: Processing incident reports, managing smoke permits, and inputting data into automated fire dispatch systems.
- Meteorological Support: Tracking weather data, including lightning strikes and fuel moisture levels, to inform preparedness levels.
Requirements
This position is rigorous and requires a high level of accountability. Candidates must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, and pass an arduous duty medical screening. Previous wildland firefighting experience is mandatory. You will also be subject to a thorough background investigation and must be willing to participate in a mandatory drug-testing program.
Comparison: Standard Forestry Technician vs. Fire Dispatch
| Feature | Standard Forestry Tech | Fire Dispatch Tech |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Land/Field Maintenance | Incident Logistics/Dispatch |
| Work Environment | Primarily Outdoors | Primarily Office/Communications Center |
| Key Skills | Mechanical/Physical Labor | Coordination/Multi-tasking |
| Communication | Direct/Face-to-Face | Radio/Data Systems |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a base pay of $23.20 per hour. As a federal employee, you may gain access to government-wide resources and training programs that are unmatched in the private sector. Note that locality pay may vary based on your final duty station.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of selection:
- Respect the Page Limit: Your resume MUST be two pages or fewer.
- Be Specific: Quantify your experience in fire dispatch or emergency logistics.
- Follow Formatting Rules: Ensure your uploaded documents are not encrypted and follow the allowed file types (.pdf, .txt, .docx).
Serving as a Fire Dispatcher is more than just a job; it is a critical contribution to the safety of wildland firefighters and the protection of our public lands. If you possess the experience and drive required, apply today to join the U.S. Forest Service for the 2027 season.
Why This Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) Job Matters
Join the front lines of wildland fire management and turn your passion for emergency logistics into a meaningful career with the U.S. Forest Service.
Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) Job Overview
The U.S. Forest Service is seeking dedicated individuals to serve as Forestry Technicians (Fire Dispatch) for the upcoming 2027 fire season. In this vital role, you will act as the backbone of fire suppression efforts, coordinating emergency responses, managing logistics, and facilitating communications between crews on the ground and incident support teams. This is a temporary, high-impact position that places you at the heart of natural resource protection across the country.
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 possess prior wildland firefighting experience.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment and random drug screening as this is a Testing Designated Position (TDP).
- Must meet Federal Wildland Firefighter Medical Standards for arduous duty.
- Must pass the Work Capacity Test for Wildland Firefighters.
- Must complete a background investigation and fingerprint check.
Preferred Qualifications for Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch)
- Experience in receiving and processing resource requests for emergency incidents.
- Familiarity with dispatching software, fire reporting systems, and telecommunications operations.
- Prior experience working with incident qualification records or automated dispatch systems.
- Current or former participants in Job Corps fire-certified training programs.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Exposure to federal natural resource management operations.
- ✓Valuable training in wildland fire and aviation dispatch systems.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development in emergency service management.
- ✓Potential for extension based on operational needs.
💡 How to Apply Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Forestry Technician (Fire Dispatch) Job
- Register for a USAJOBS account if you have not already.
- Review the full announcement details and verify your eligibility.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed the two-page limit.
- Complete the online Assessment Questionnaire via the application portal.
- Upload all required supporting documentation, such as transcripts or proof of federal status.
- Submit your application package electronically before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise and focused; it must not exceed two pages or you will be disqualified.
- Clearly highlight your specific experience with fire or emergency dispatching in your work history.
- Ensure all uploaded documents are in a standard format (PDF, TXT, DOC) and under 5MB.
- Use the 'Apply' button to transfer your information to the Forest Service's internal staffing system.
- Double-check your email notifications to ensure you receive status updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
No, this is a temporary appointment intended for the 2027 fire season. It has a 'not-to-exceed' date, though extensions may be possible depending on funding and work requirements.
Am I required to take a drug test?
Yes. This position is a Testing Designated Position (TDP), meaning you will be subject to both pre-employment and random drug testing throughout your appointment.
Can I apply if I don't have direct firefighting experience?
This specific role requires prior wildland firefighting experience to ensure all personnel are prepared for the demands of the environment.
Job from Forest Service
The U.S. Forest Service is a world-renowned land management agency dedicated to the stewardship of over 193 million acres of National Forest and Grassland. Beyond fire management, the agency conducts cutting-edge research and provides technical assistance to private forest owners. Working for the Forest Service means joining a team committed to excellence, safety, and the long-term health of our nation's wildlands.