Tree Faller (Seasonal)

National Park Service; California; On-site; USD 33,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

The National Park Service in California seeks a forestry technician to perform tree felling, rigging, and equipment operation across Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Yosemite areas. The role emphasizes safety, protection of resources, and working in rugged environments.

Expect seasonal variability and weather-related changes, with a tentative entry on duty in April 2027 and application windows that may close after 180 applicants or on 2026-10-26.

Responsibilities

• Use chainsaws to fell trees of moderate difficulty and complexity in various terrains.
• Install and use rigging equipment to lower or maneuver tree sections.
• Drive medium duty trucks and operate aerial lifts and related equipment.
• Ensure public safety and protect property and surroundings in potentially hazardous conditions.
• Work in diverse weather and terrain while supporting forest management activities.

Job description

• Schedule: Work Schedule dependent on the location

The typical season is April through November but can be variable during these months due to weather conditions, project needs, or funding. Anticipated Entry on Duty: April 2027. Open to the first 180 applicants or until 10/26/2026 whichever comes first.

Key Responsibilities

Some of the major duties you will perform include but are not limited to the following: Use chainsaws to fell trees of moderate difficulty and complexity with accuracy in developed and non-developed areas. Recognizes tree species, defects, wood characteristics and environmental hazards that may alter desired felling results.

Works in potentially hazardous conditions while being exposed to inclement weather, steep terrain, and associated risks related to forest and timber industries. Provides for public safety, protects property and surrounding environment to minimize impact.

Installs and utilizes rigging equipment such as ropes/cables, nylon slings, pulleys, friction devices and attachment hardware to hold, lower or maneuver tree sections when working in limited spaces above or adjacent to buildings or other valued property. May be assigned to assist in prescribed and suppression fire activities. Government Housing may be available.

Drives medium duty trucks (up to 14,000 pounds) while towing equipment on narrow, winding, steep roads in all weather conditions. Operates aerial lift trucks, brush chippers, stump grinders, portable winches, portable blowers, etc. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks represent an extraordinary continuum of ecosystems (96% designated wilderness) arrayed along the greatest vertical relief (1,370 to 14,505 feet elevation) of any protected area in the lower 48 states.

They are the highest, most rugged reaches of the Sierra Nevada Mountains (including Mount Whitney at 14,500 feet elevation) and feature the world's largest trees - Giant Sequoias. Sequoia National Park is the nation's second oldest national park (established September 25, 1890) and encompasses 404,863 acres. Kings Canyon was established on March 4, 1940 and encompasses 458,847 acres.

Both parks provide a wealth of recreational opportunities via 835 miles of trails, wild and scenic rivers, alpine lakes, and caves, along with a full range of overnight lodging prospects to choose from that include 14 campgrounds. For area information visit: https://www.nps.gov/seki/getinvolved/workwithus.htm. Yosemite National Park, California, known worldwide for its spectacular natural beauty is the backdrop for this position.

Sitting astride the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the park covers 1,182 square miles of varied wilderness ecosystems, from river valleys to alpine meadows to lofty 13,000 foot high peaks. Yosemite Valley is located 208 miles from San Francisco, 81 miles from Merced, and 94 miles from Fresno. Shopping, medical, postal and laundry services are available in the park. Elevation at the Valley floor is approximately 4,000 feet and 2,200 feet in El Portal.

The park is open year-round with the majority of activities occurring during the busy season March through October.

Requirements & Education

There is no substitution of education for experience for Federal Wage System (FWS) positions.

Which agency is hiring for this position?

This position is with National Park Service, Department of the Interior.

What is the salary for this position?

The posted pay range is $23.89 – $27.87/hr.

What is the application deadline?

Applications close on 2026-10-26.

What is the work schedule?

This is a Work Schedule dependent on the location position.

Who is eligible to apply?

This position is open under the 'Fed Transition' hiring path.