Educational State Forest Ranger

State of North Carolina; Smithfield (NC); On-site; USD 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The North Carolina Forest Service seeks an Educational State Forest Ranger to deliver educational programs, assist in wildfire suppression, and manage forest resources. Candidates should possess strong communication skills and knowledge of forest management. A valid NC driver’s license is required within 90 days of hire.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of forest management, wildfire suppression, or GPS/GIS software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Presenting forestry and environmental education programs.
• Assisting in wildfire suppression efforts.
• Developing and implementing the forest's management plan.

Skills

Knowledge of forest management

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Ability to organize and prioritize tasks

Self-motivated

Team-oriented

Calm under stress

Education

Associate degree in forest management

High school diploma/GED

Tools

GPS/GIS software

Job description

Note: If there are no qualified candidates remaining in the applicant pool who meet the minimum education and experience or knowledge, skills, and abilities required for the position, then an applicant who does not meet the minimum requirements may be considered for hire as a trainee. The salary for a trainee may be set lower than the classification salary range and recruitment range listed in the posting. The salary is adjusted as the trainee obtains additional education and experience to fully meet the position qualifications as outlined in the classification specification.

About the North Carolina Forest Service

The North Carolina Forest Service is a team of professionals providing forest protection, emergency response, resource management, and environmental education to residents and landowners across North Carolina through various programs, serving all 100 counties in the state.

Educational State Forest Ranger Duties

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

1. Presenting forestry and environmental education programs to schools, civic groups, and the general public.
2. Assisting in designing and developing educational programs.
3. Working with volunteers, community service workers, and prison inmates.
4. Designing, laying out, and maintaining forest trails, picnic areas, buildings, and exhibits, including routine janitorial duties.
5. Enforcing rules and regulations applicable to the forest.
6. Assisting in wildfire suppression efforts and participating in Incident Management Teams.
7. Developing and implementing the forest's management plan, including prescribed burning, timber harvesting oversight, site preparation, reforestation, timber stand improvement, water quality, and wildlife management.
8. Participating in district and out-of-district projects as assigned.

Work Schedule and Travel

Work hours are typically 8-5, Monday through Friday. Extended hours, including evenings, holidays, and weekends, may be required during fire danger periods and emergencies. Overnight travel may also be necessary.

Position Details

Duty Station: 2256 Old US 70 West, Clayton, NC

This position requires successful completion of employer-provided Ranger Training. The official NC Forest Service uniform and a state-owned vehicle will be provided.

Additional Information

For more about state employee benefits, Click Here.

The Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services employs about 2,000 staff, promoting agriculture, forestry, protecting consumers, and conserving resources.

To learn how to apply, Click Here to watch the application tutorial.

Qualifications and Requirements

Applicants must document on the application that they possess all the listed knowledge, skills, and abilities, including:

• Knowledge of forest management, wildfire suppression, or GPS/GIS software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to organize and prioritize tasks.
• Self-motivated, team-oriented, and able to remain calm under stress.

Preferred qualifications include environmental education experience or training.

Qualifications can be met through an equivalent combination of education and experience, such as an associate degree in forest management or related fields, or a high school diploma/GED with two years of related experience.

A valid North Carolina driver’s license is required within 90 days of hire.

Additional Notes

Employment offers may be less than the maximum salary range due to salary equity considerations. All applications must be complete, including all relevant education and experience; resumes alone are not accepted.

Veterans/National Guard applicants should submit appropriate documentation.

Some positions are subject to pre-employment drug testing, DMV physicals, and obtaining a USDOT medical certificate. A CDL may be required if listed as a preference or at the time of hire.

Application Instructions

Please follow the online application instructions carefully. Ensure your application includes all relevant education and experience. For questions, contact 919-707-3201.