5 Entry Level Forest Service Jobs To Start Your Conservation Career

There are many entry level Forest Service jobs that allow you to work in some of the most beautiful and ecologically diverse landscapes in the country. If you’re passionate about conservation and the great outdoors, these jobs might be your ideal career path. 

In this article, we’ll delve into 5 entry level Forest Service jobs that can kickstart your journey into the world of conservation.

Why Applying for Entry Level Forest Service Jobs Is Good?

The Forest Service is responsible for managing and protecting over 191 million acres of National Forest System land, making it one of the most significant conservation organizations in the country. The more you explore the Forest Service, the more you’ll understand why working for this agency is worth it.

Career Fields

The Forest Service has many different career options, so it’s a great choice if you have different interests and skills. Whether you like business, taking care of resources, helping visitors, working with fires and airplanes, or something else, the Forest Service has a job for you. This variety means you can try out different careers and find the one that matches what you’re passionate about and good at.

Benefits, Pay, And Environment

Working for the Forest Service has many great benefits that make it an attractive career choice. You get good pay, great benefits, and job security. The way you’re paid is set up to make sure you’re fairly rewarded for your hard work and dedication to conservation.

Plus, the Forest Service is all about diversity, inclusion, and personal growth. You’ll be part of a community where you’ll work with people who share your passion for protecting natural resources. This will make you feel fulfilled because it allows you to make a positive impact on the environment.

Entry Level Forest Service Jobs for Students and Recent Graduates

The Forest Service really wants young people to join conservation efforts. They have internships and job openings for people aged 15 to 30, which is great for students and recent grads. These programs let you get hands-on experience in different areas and make a real impact in your community.

5 Entry Level Forest Service Jobs – Hiring Now!

Now, let’s explore 5 entry level Forest Service jobs that are currently in demand and can provide an excellent starting point for your conservation career.

Forestry Aid And Technician

Do you want to help people have the best possible experience on National Forests and Grasslands? Apply to become a forestry aid or technician and learn how you can make a difference! The Forest Service is currently offering hundreds of entry level forestry jobs as aids and technicians in exciting and rewarding locations across the country.

These entry level forestry jobs offer opportunities for growth and a wide range of experiences in recreation and natural resource fields. As a forestry aid or technician, your job could include tasks like managing timber, conserving wildlife, protecting watersheds, studying plants, growing forests, and overseeing ranges, among other things. Your efforts will make a big difference by reducing wildfire risks, addressing tree diseases, controlling invasive plants, and enhancing wildlife habitats. Plus, your work can make national forests and grasslands more enjoyable for the public.

To qualify for a position as a forestry aid or technician (job series 0462), you need just 6 months of full time general work experience or at least 1 year of education beyond high school with relevant coursework. The General Schedule (GS) level you qualify for will vary based on your work experience and formal education. The GS level determines your position’s salary and duties.

These positions are currently open for applications from September 18 through 25, 2023, with specific locations to be determined. If you miss this window, rest assured that more opportunities will become available later in the year.

Wildland Firefighter

If you want an exciting and meaningful job that combines physical and mental challenges, think about becoming a Wildland Firefighter with the Forest Service. Wildland firefighters are in charge of putting out, handling, and managing wildfires. This job plays a crucial role in protecting our forests and communities.

The Forest Service is looking to hire people for wildland fire positions in Oregon, Washington, Arizona, and New Mexico. They have in-person recruitment events in New Mexico and Washington where you can meet the fire staff, get help with your application, and find out about the perks of working with the Forest Service.

The positions are open to U.S. citizens or nationals aged 18 and above. Veterans’ preference does not apply to these vacancies, as Direct Hire Authority will be used to fill them. These roles offer not only the chance to protect our natural landscapes but also the opportunity for career growth and advancement.

If you want to become a wildland firefighter, you can apply between August 31 and September 29, 2023. There are openings in different places, and they have different job levels. To learn more, read our article on becoming a US Forest Service firefighter. You should also check out the Careers in Wildland Fire page for all the benefits, qualifications, and info to help you find the right job for you.

Fisheries Biologist

As a Fisheries Biologist with the Forest Service, your job will involve working in diverse settings, such as offices, mountains, lakes, laboratories, and forests, including seashores. Your main role is to safeguard and enhance aquatic environments, which include 128,000 miles of streams and rivers, over 2.2 million acres of lakes and ponds for fishing, and 16,500 miles of coastline. These natural resources are spread across the 191 million acres of National Forest System land.

A fisheries biologist teams up with various experts in the agency to care for aquatic resources. They work with recreation, wildlife management, watershed management, engineering, and timber management specialists. The goal is to create and execute programs that improve fish habitats in national forests. These programs are crucial to meet the increasing need for fishing and aquatic education in public lands.

Fisheries biologists at the Forest Service also work with many partners, including conservation groups, state, federal, and tribal agencies, and special interest groups. They all work together to study and improve aquatic habitats and fish populations. This job depends on teamwork from various experts, ensuring that each project benefits from different perspectives and knowledge.

Becoming a fisheries biologist with the Forest Service involves different steps. Here’s a simplified breakdown:

• Starting Out: If you’re a recent college graduate, you can begin at either the GS-5 or GS-7 level. You’ll spend up to two years in training and developmental roles.

• Moving Up: After this initial period, you may be promoted noncompetitively to the GS-9 level. Some people might even start at higher grades if they meet specific education and experience requirements.

• Competitive Growth: Promotions to GS-11 and beyond can be competitive. However, the Forest Service is supportive of your career development. Over 35 percent of fisheries biologists are at the GS-11 level, and nearly 25 percent are at even higher grades.

Fire Management Specialist

Fire management specialists play a vital role in taking care of the country’s forests and grasslands. In this job, you’ll spend a lot of time outdoors, gathering important information, cutting and stacking trees and bushes, and assisting with controlled fires to get rid of extra flammable material. Your work helps lower the chances of devastating wildfires and supports the health of our ecosystems.

But there’s more to it – fire management specialists also help create long-term plans for dealing with flammable materials. This can mean using fire, machines, or chemicals to reduce fire dangers and keep nature in balance. Teamwork is crucial because you’ll team up with resource experts, stakeholders, and partners to figure out and put important tasks at the top of the list in your area.

By joining the Forest Service as a fire management specialist, you’ll be instrumental in returning our forests to a healthy state, safeguarding valuable resources and assets, and creating safer conditions for firefighters. Apply for this position from October 24 through November 1, 2023.

Natural Resource Intern

Are you someone who loves nature, cares about the environment, and wants to learn more? If so, consider becoming a Natural Resource Intern with the Forest Service. As a natural resource intern, you’ll receive hands-on training in the field of natural resources and biological sciences. This experience can open doors to long-term career opportunities within the agency.

This internship program covers a wide range of areas, including forestry, wildlife biology, range management, botany, recreation, and fish biology. As a natural resource intern, you’ll find yourself in a dynamic role with diverse responsibilities.

Your main job is to watch over and minimize the effects of people and the environment on the forest. You’ll be really important in taking care of places where lots of people like to have fun, like trails, campsites, and picnic spots, so they stay safe and fun for everyone.

Invasive species are a big problem for our ecosystems. As an intern, your job will be to help stop them from spreading. You’ll work on finding and using ways to fight invasive species, which will protect the native plants and animals.

Additionally, you may be responsible for issuing special permits for activities within the forest, such as research or special events. This role allows you to interact with a variety of stakeholders and ensure that these activities align with the Forest Service’s conservation objectives.

If you’re interested in becoming a Natural Resource Intern with the Forest Service, mark your calendar for the application period from October 24 through November 1, 2023. This is your chance to embark on a rewarding journey in conservation.

How To Apply For Entry Level Forest Service Jobs?

For most Forest Service jobs, the primary platform for applications is USAJOBS.gov. This federal job portal is where you’ll find listings for Forest Service positions across the country. To apply, you’ll need to create an account on the website, build your resume, and submit your application through the portal.

However, it’s important to note that for special programs, such as certain internships or for applicants with specific hiring authorities like veterans, the application process may differ. Be sure to carefully read the information provided for each job listing to understand any unique requirements or processes.

To make the application process smoother and more accessible, the Forest Service offers live webinars where you can get your questions answered by a Human Resources Specialist. These webinars are an excellent resource for applicants seeking guidance and clarification.

If you have specific questions about career opportunities with the Forest Service or need assistance with your applications, call 1-877-372-7248. When you call, select option 2 and follow the prompts. The Forest Service’s support group is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain Time, excluding Federal holidays.

A Step Closer To Nature

Working for the Forest Service isn’t just a job; it’s a calling for individuals dedicated to the preservation and management of our nation’s forests and grasslands. These jobs offer not only the chance to make a meaningful impact on the environment but also a pathway to a fulfilling and rewarding career in conservation. So, if you’re ready to take a step closer to nature, explore these entry level Forest Service jobs. Your journey to a fulfilling conservation career starts here!