Launch Your Career in Fire Management: Engineering Equipment Operator Helper

Are you looking for a physically demanding, high-impact career that allows you to protect our national forests? The USDA Forest Service is currently hiring Engineering Equipment Operator Helpers to provide critical support to fire management teams. This role is perfect for motivated individuals who want to gain experience in heavy equipment operation while contributing directly to fire suppression and land management.

Job Responsibilities

As an Engineering Equipment Operator Helper, your primary responsibility is to assist journeyman operators in the use of heavy machinery. Your daily tasks may include:

• Assisting in the operation of industrial tractors, loaders, backhoes, and dump trucks.
• Performing routine operator maintenance and minor mechanical adjustments.
• Supporting wildland fire suppression activities under close supervision.
• Installing infrastructure such as culverts, water sources, and pipelines.
• Maintaining specialized equipment to ensure readiness for emergency responses.

Comparison: Standard vs. Field-Based Duties

Task Type	Description	Physical Demand
Equipment Support	Assisting with heavy machinery operation	High
Maintenance	Minor repairs and servicing on site	Moderate
Fire Suppression	Supporting active fire crew operations	Extreme

Requirements

To be considered for this position, you must meet several key requirements:

• Eligibility: You must be a U.S. Citizen, 18 years or older, and have valid identification.
• Fitness: Successful candidates must pass the Arduous Work Capacity Test (Pack Test).
• Medical: You are subject to a medical screening and must meet Wildland Firefighter medical standards.
• Testing: This is a drug-tested position; you will be subject to pre-employment and random drug screening.
• Documentation: You must submit a resume that is strictly two pages or less.

Salary Overview

This position offers an hourly rate ranging from $23.30 to $23.44. Please note that base pay varies by geographic location, and applicants should verify the specific pay scale for their selected duty station via the Office of Personnel Management website.

Benefits

While this is a temporary appointment, the experience gained is invaluable. You will receive:

• Hands-on training in heavy equipment operations.
• Exposure to professional fire management practices.
• The opportunity to work in diverse landscapes across the United States.

Application Tips

1. Watch the Clock: Ensure your application is submitted before 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date.
2. Resume Check: The two-page limit is firm. If you submit a resume longer than two pages, you will be removed from consideration.
3. Physical Prep: Start training for the pack test immediately. Do not wait until the offer arrives.
4. Documents: Double-check that all transcripts and required documents are legible and in an accepted format (PDF, Word, TXT, etc.).

Can I work remotely?

No, this position is field-based and requires on-site presence at a designated Forest Service unit.

Is this a permanent job?

It is a temporary position with an expected duration of up to 6 to 12 months, though extensions may be possible based on operational needs.

If you have a strong work ethic, a passion for the outdoors, and the physical stamina to work in challenging environments, a career as an Engineering Equipment Operator Helper with the Forest Service is an excellent path forward. Prepare your application, focus on the requirements, and help us protect our nation's most magnificent lands.