Forest Fire Equipment Operator

North Carolina; Lexington (NC); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading state agency is seeking a Forest Fire Equipment Operator to maintain and operate heavy equipment for wildland fire suppression and forest management. The role requires effective communication and teamwork, with responsibilities including emergency response and equipment maintenance. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and relevant experience. Official uniforms provided, and pre-employment drug testing is mandatory.

Benefits

Official uniforms provided

Qualifications

• Two years of heavy equipment operation experience required.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and operate heavy equipment for wildland fire suppression.
• Respond to emergencies like wildfires and participate in incident management.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Self-motivation

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Bulldozers

Motor Graders

Excavators

Job description

Join to apply for the Forest Fire Equipment Operator role at State of North Carolina.

The North Carolina Forest Service (NCFS) is an emergency response division providing forest protection, resource management, and environmental education across all 100 counties of North Carolina.

This position involves maintaining and operating heavy equipment such as bulldozers, hauling units, and others used in wildland fire suppression, pre-suppression, prescribed burning, and forestation. Responsibilities include minor equipment repairs, assisting with major repairs, and supporting various forest management activities. The role also involves responding to emergencies like wildfires and natural disasters, participating in incident management teams, and possibly engaging in educational programs.

Work hours are typically 8-5, Monday through Friday, with extended hours during fire danger periods, including evenings, holidays, and weekends. Overnight travel may be required. Residency requirements will be discussed during the interview.

Duty Station: 700 Newsome Lane, Denton, NC 27239. Official uniforms are provided. A driving evaluation and crawler proficiency test will be administered on the interview day. Pre-employment drug testing is mandatory.

Applicants must meet the following minimum qualifications:

1. Ability to operate heavy equipment such as bulldozers, motor graders, or excavators.
2. Ability to operate a truck tractor with a low boy trailer in various conditions.
3. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
4. Self-motivated, service-oriented, and cooperative.
5. Effective communication skills.

Preferred qualifications include skills in minor equipment repairs and experience in wildland firefighting. Candidates may qualify through a combination of education and experience, with a high school diploma or GED and two years of heavy equipment operation experience required.

Special requirements include:

• Completion of NC FFEO training within two years of hire.
• Possession of a valid North Carolina Commercial Driver's License or Learner's Permit with the ability to obtain the license within 90 days.
• Passing a drug screening and obtaining a Medical Examiner's Certification (Medical Card).

To apply, follow the online application instructions carefully, ensuring all relevant education and experience are included. Resumes are not accepted in lieu of a complete application. Veterans/National Guard applicants should submit appropriate documentation.

Positions are subject to pre-employment drug testing and DMV physicals if a CDL is required. A USDOT medical certificate must be obtained prior to employment.

For questions, contact 919-707-3201.