Field Manager

USDA Forest Service; Cody (WY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

USDA Forest Service in Cody, Wyoming, seeks a Field Manager to oversee day-to-day field operations across forest and grassland areas. You will coordinate crews, schedules, data collection, and project implementation under federal regulations.

You will work with specialists on habitat management, wildfire prevention, and restoration initiatives, while training staff, ensuring safety, and engaging with partners and the public to advance conservation objectives.

Qualifications

• Experience coordinating field crews and managing on-the-ground projects.
• Knowledge of conservation practices and ecosystem management fundamentals.
• Strong organizational and planning skills for changing field conditions.
• Ability to lead, coach, and support diverse field staff in a safety-focused environment.
• Effective written and verbal communication for reports and stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day field operations within designated forest and grassland areas.
• Coordinate field crews, schedules, and project execution.
• Monitor field conditions and report data for habitat management and restoration efforts.
• Collaborate with specialists on wildfire prevention, trail and facility upkeep, and restoration work.
• Prepare reports and support planning processes; engage with local partners and the public.

Skills

Field operations

Team leadership

Safety compliance

Data collection

Written communication

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in forestry or natural resources

Tools

GPS

Mapping devices

GIS software

Office software

Job description

Company Description

The United States Forest Service, an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, administers 154 national forests and 20 national grasslands across 193 million acres. As the lead federal agency for natural resource conservation, it focuses on protecting, managing, and sustainably using the nation’s forest, rangeland, and aquatic ecosystems. Its mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of these lands to meet the needs of present and future generations, guided by the motto “Caring for the land and serving people.” The agency uses an ecosystem-based management approach that integrates ecological, economic, and social factors to improve environmental quality. Through land and resource management plans, the Forest Service supports recreation, clean water, timber, minerals, fish and wildlife, wilderness, and aesthetic values for communities nationwide.

Role Description

The Field Manager is a full-time, on-site role located in Cody, WY, responsible for overseeing day-to-day field operations within designated forest and grassland areas. This position coordinates field crews, schedules activities, and ensures safe, efficient implementation of resource management, conservation, and maintenance projects. The Field Manager monitors field conditions, gathers and reports data, and collaborates with specialists on initiatives related to habitat management, trail and facility upkeep, wildfire prevention, and restoration work. The role includes training and guiding staff, ensuring compliance with federal regulations and Forest Service policies, and engaging with local partners and community stakeholders as needed. The Field Manager also prepares reports, supports planning processes, and helps align field activities with broader land and resource management objectives.

Qualifications

• Experience in field operations, natural resource management, or forestry, including coordinating crews and implementing on-the-ground projects.
• Knowledge of conservation practices, ecosystem management principles, and basic environmental regulations relevant to forest and grassland stewardship.
• Strong organizational and planning skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage schedules, and meet project deadlines in variable field conditions.
• Ability to lead, coach, and support diverse field staff, fostering a culture of safety, respect, and collaboration.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for documenting field activities, preparing reports, and working with colleagues, partners, and the public.
• Commitment to workplace safety, including familiarity with field safety protocols, risk assessment, and incident reporting.
• Competence in using basic field tools, GPS or mapping devices, and standard office software for data entry and reporting.
• Relevant education such as a degree or coursework in forestry, natural resources, environmental science, biology, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather and terrain, and meet any physical