The Forest Service offers positions for both permanent and temporary employees. Permanent positions are for full-time employees and provide a flexible range of Federal government benefits. Temporary positions are for part-time or seasonal employees and provide benefits that vary with the position and the location. Due to the seasonal nature of many of the responsibilities of the Forest Service, such as wildfire fighting and seasonal recreation programs, many temporary workers are required.
Temporary employees have a very special place within the Forest Service. After all, most Forest Service career employees started out in temporary positions. Seeking a temporary or seasonal job with the Forest Service is a great way to learn about different opportunities so you can make the best match. It's also a great way to meet people within the organization and hone your skills so you'll be well prepared for a permanent position, should you choose to pursue one.
Want to dig a site, spend your days in the backcountry, or host a campground in the mountains? Be a volunteer for the Forest Service.
There are many opportunities, everything from wilderness stewards and trail clearing to office work and campground hosts. Working alone or with a group, Forest Service volunteers enjoy work that matches their interests and calendar.
Some typical volunteer projects range from a single-day project to a long-term undertaking for several months. There are many types of volunteer opportunities suitable for your talents and skills. The U.S.Forest Service will match your skills with your work preference to give you an enjoyable experience and best fulfill the mission of the Forest Service.
Examples of opportunities are listed below. What captures your interest?
- Volunteer Management. They need managers to lead volunteer projects.
- Maintaining and hosting campgrounds. These volunteer positions generally require a minimum of two weeks.
- Answering phones, greeting visitors, and answering mail at Forest Service visitor centers and ranger stations.
- Monitoring wilderness use as a Wilderness Steward/Ranger.
- Join a group or work individually on trail maintenance and various building projets.
- Working with specialists in wildlife, botany, and fisheries/watershed research.
To find opportunities in your particular state, click http://www.volunteer.gov/gov/ and select your state from the image map on the left side of the page.
For additional information about becoming a Park Ranger, Park Guide, or Student Park Ranger, see:
Park Ranger
Park Guide
Student Park Ranger
