Forest Fire Equipment Operator

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

Job summary

The North Carolina Forest Service is seeking an entry-level position responsible for maintaining and operating heavy equipment used in wildland fire suppression and forest management. The role requires effective communication skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and two years of heavy equipment operation experience. The position involves responding to emergencies and may require overnight travel.

Benefits

Official uniforms provided

Qualifications

• Two years of heavy equipment operation experience required.
• Must possess a current NC CDL or learner's permit.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and operate heavy equipment for fire suppression and forest management.
• Respond to emergencies like wildfires and natural disasters.

Skills

Heavy Equipment Maintenance

Communication

Teamwork

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Bulldozers

Motor Graders

Excavators

Job description

3 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

• This is a readvertisement. All previous applicants MUST reapply to be considered. ***

Description of Work

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 heavy equipment such as bulldozers, hauling units, and others used in wildland fire suppression, pre-suppression, prescribed burning, and forestation. Performs minor repairs and assists district mechanics with major repairs. May also assist with educational programs, forest management activities, or other tasks. Responds during emergencies like wildfires and natural disasters.

Participates on incident management teams as assigned.

Work hours are typically 8-5, Monday to Friday. Extended hours, including evenings, holidays, and weekends, may be required during fire danger periods or emergencies. Must be available after hours during such times.

Overnight travel will be required. Residency requirements will be discussed at the time of the interview.

Duty Station Location: 1159 Green Swamp Road, Supply, NC 28462

Official NCFS uniforms are provided by the employer.

• 13-speed hauling unit driving evaluation will be given on the day of the interview.
• Crawler proficiency evaluation will be given on the day of the interview.

Pre-employment mandatory drug testing is required.

Learn more about State Employee Benefits here.

The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services promotes and improves agriculture, agribusiness, and forests; protects consumers and businesses; and conserves farmland and natural resources. The department employs approximately 2,000 employees.

Watch this video to learn how to apply: here.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities / Competencies

Applicants must demonstrate the following:

• Ability to maintain heavy equipment such as bulldozers, motor graders, or excavators.
• Ability to operate a truck tractor with low boy trailer over the road in various conditions.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.
• Must be a self-starter, service-oriented, and cooperative.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.

Management Preferences

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

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

High school diploma or GED and two years of heavy equipment operation experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Necessary Special Requirements

• Completion of NC FFEO training schedule within two years of hire.
• Possession of a current North Carolina Commercial Driver's License (CDL) at hire date, or a learner's permit with the ability to obtain it within 90 days.
• Pass a drug screening and possess a Medical Examiner's Certification (Medical Card).

Application Questions

1. Do you possess a current NC CDL or a learner's permit with the ability to obtain it within 90 days?
   
   • Yes
   • No
2. Do you understand that heavy equipment experience must be included in your work experience to qualify?
   
   • Yes
   • No
3. Have you ever been convicted of a law violation other than a minor traffic offense?
   
   • Yes
   • No
4. If yes, please explain the nature and date of conviction, or enter N/A if none.
5. Have you or your employer received any warnings, civil penalties, or violations from NC Department of Agriculture?
   
   • Yes
   • No
6. If yes, please explain.

Additional Information

• Seniority level: Entry level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Management and Manufacturing
• Industries: Government Administration

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