FOREST RANGER I (B102C)

Arkansas.gov; Kensett (AR); On-site; USD 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dedicated Forest Ranger I to join their team. This role involves critical responsibilities such as forest propagation, fire prevention, and timber management, ensuring the safety and sustainability of Arkansas's natural resources. The ideal candidate will be proactive in wildfire suppression, operate essential machinery, and engage with the community through educational programs. This position offers an opportunity to make a significant impact on local forestry practices while working in diverse and challenging environments. If you are passionate about nature and public service, this role is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; 6 months experience in tractor/truck operations.
• Must obtain CDL and pass annual physical standards.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for forest propagation, fire prevention, and timber management.
• Operates dozers and plows for fire line construction and maintenance.

Skills

Knowledge of fire laws and regulations

Ability to operate truck and tractors

Vehicle and equipment maintenance and repair

Ability to read maps and follow directions

Ability to compile and complete reports

Ability to use GPS and forestry equipment

Oral and written communication skills

Education

High school diploma

Tools

GPS equipment

Fire suppression equipment

Job description

Position Number: 22088434
County: White
Posting End Date: Open Until Filled
Anticipated Starting Salary: $32,405
Forestry Division

Hiring Authority:

101 East Searcy Street

Kensett, AR 72082

Phone: [phone]

Email: [e-mail]

As the largest industry in Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture is dedicated to the development and implementation of policies and programs for Arkansas agriculture and forestry to keep its farmers and ranchers competitive in national and international markets while ensuring safe food, fiber, and forest products for the citizens of the state and nation. The Department is organized into five Divisions: Forestry Division, Livestock and Poultry Division, Natural Resources Division, Plant Industries Division, and Shared Services Division.

Position Information

Class Code: B102C

Grade: GS04

FLSA Status: NON-EXEMPT

Salary Range: $32,405.00 - $51,686.00

Summary

The Forest Ranger I is responsible for forest propagation, fire prevention and suppression, and timber management. This position is governed by state and federal laws and agency/institution policy.

Functions

1. Locates fire sites following legal land description or directions.
2. Performs wildfire suppression activities, including construction of fire lines, and inspects and secures fire lines by removing limbs, snags, and brush, as needed.
3. Operates dozers and plows to construct fire lines.
4. Collects information to determine timber/soil type, seedling planting rate, seedling survival rate, property boundaries, and insect and disease infestation.
5. Performs preventative maintenance and repair of agency vehicles, fire suppression equipment, tools, and facilities.
6. Presents fire prevention programs to elementary schools, civic groups, and rural volunteer fire departments utilizing audio-visual aids and costumes.
7. Collects geographic information system data for forest management programs utilizing global position system (GPS) and handheld data equipment.
8. Performs other duties as assigned.

Dimensions

Exposure to extreme weather conditions, rough terrain, and potentially hazardous and/or dangerous conditions and in-state travel is required. May be required to work under extended subject-to-call status and extended work hours. Must reside within assigned area as a condition of employment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

1. Knowledge of fire laws and regulations.
2. Knowledge of and ability to operate truck and tractors.
3. Ability to perform and coordinate vehicle and equipment maintenance and repair.
4. Ability to read maps and follow directions.
5. Ability to compile and complete reports.
6. Ability to use GPS, data recorders and other forestry equipment.
7. Ability to communicate orally and in writing.

Minimum Qualifications

The formal education equivalent of a high school diploma; plus six months of experience in tractor/truck operations and maintenance. Must obtain a commercial driver license (CDL), must be 21 years of age, and pass an annual physical standard and job retention training as a condition of employment. Additional requirements determined by the agency for recruiting purposes require review and approval by the Office of Personnel Management. OTHER JOB-RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.

Licenses

None

Preferred Qualifications:

• Forestry Division Residency policy: Forest Rangers and Foresters must reside within the county of their work station/counties of responsibility, or reside within a distance that will allow for the employees to arrive at the work station and be in route to the emergency within a thirty minute time period.
• Required to meet emergency response time standards during fire season.
• Frequent exposure to wooded areas and the weather is required.
• Exposure to smoke, fire, and debris while performing fire suppression duties is required.
• General computer skills preferred.

The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.