Forest Fire Equipment Operator

State of North Carolina; North Carolina; On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated heavy equipment operator to join their team. This role involves maintaining and operating bulldozers and other heavy machinery for critical tasks like wildland fire suppression and forest management. The ideal candidate will possess strong mechanical skills and a commitment to safety, as they will respond to emergencies and participate in incident management teams. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to environmental protection while working in a dynamic and supportive environment. If you are a self-starter with a passion for service and teamwork, this role is perfect for you.

Benefits

Official uniforms provided

Overnight travel opportunities

Emergency response training

Qualifications

• Ability to maintain and operate heavy equipment like bulldozers and graders.
• Effective oral and written communication skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and operate heavy equipment for fire suppression and forestation.
• Respond to emergencies such as wildland fires and natural disasters.

Skills

Heavy equipment maintenance

Truck tractor operation

Teamwork

Effective communication

Education

High school diploma or GED

2 years of heavy equipment operation experience

Tools

Bulldozer

Motor grader

Excavator

Job description

This is a readvertisement. Previous applicants MUST reapply to be considered.

The North Carolina Forest Service (NCFS) is designated as an emergency response Division and is a team of professionals who provide forest protection, resource management and environmental education to the residents and landowners of North Carolina through a variety of programs. The NCFS provides services to all 100 counties in North Carolina.

This position is responsible for the maintenance and operation of a bulldozer, hauling unit, and other heavy equipment used in wildland fire suppression, pre-suppression, prescribed burning, and forestation. Performs minor equipment repairs and assists district mechanic with major repairs. May assist with information and education programs, a variety of forest management activities or other tasks. Responds in times of emergency such as wildland fires and natural disasters. Participates on incident management teams as assigned.

Work hours are typically 8-5 M-F. Extended times of readiness will involve evening, holiday, and/or weekend work. Must be available after working hours during fire danger periods and times of emergency response. Overnight travel will be required. Residency requirements discussed at time of interview.

Duty Station Location: Carteret County Headquarters, 2721 Hwy 101, Beaufort, NC 28516

Official NCFS uniforms provided by employer.

Pre-employment mandatory drug testing required.

The Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities listed below, along with the Minimum Education and Experience requirements, are REQUIRED to qualify for this position. We will not review resumes in lieu of the Experience and Education listed on the application.

To qualify for this position, applicants must document on the application that they possess ALL of the following:

• Ability to maintain heavy equipment such as bulldozer, motor grader, or excavator.
• Ability to operate a truck tractor with low boy trailer over the road in a variety of driving conditions.
• Ability to work independently or as a team player.
• Must be a self-starter, service oriented and work cooperatively with others.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.

MANAGEMENT PREFERENCES:

• Skilled in performing minor equipment repairs.
• Experience and training in wildland firefighting.

You may qualify by an equivalent combination of education and experience, either through years of education or years of directly related experience, or a combination of both.

High school or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) and two years of heavy equipment operation experience.

Necessary Special Requirement
Completion of NC FFEO training schedule within two years of hire.
Possession of a current North Carolina Commercial Driver's License on hire date; OR possession of the North Carolina Commercial Driver Learner's Permit and obtain the NC Commercial Driver's License within 90 days of the hire date.
Job applicants must pass a drug screening test and possess a Medical Examiner's Certification (Medical Card) as a condition of a job offer and employment.

Applicants seeking veteran's/National Guard preference should submit a copy of their Form DD-214, NGB 23A (RPAS), DD256 or NGB 22.

All Law Enforcement positions, aviation safety-sensitive positions, and positions requiring a Pilot's License or a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) shall be subject to pre-employment drug testing. All positions requiring a Commercial Driver's License shall also be subject to pre-employment DMV physicals. Selected applicants must obtain a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) medical certificate prior to employment.

*Note: When required, you must answer the question(s) for this position, or your application will be considered incomplete.*

Questions regarding this posting? Contact 919-707-3201.