County Ranger

State of North Carolina • Cherokee, NC

405d • $36,682 - $64,194

About The Position

The County Ranger serves as the lead for the North Carolina Forest Service (NCFS) in the assigned work area, focusing on forest protection, resource management, and environmental education. This role involves emergency response to wildfires and natural disasters, providing forestry assistance to landowners, and promoting forestry education through community engagement. The position requires readiness for extended hours during emergencies and involves overnight travel.

Requirements

• Knowledge of forest management or wildfire suppression.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to organize and prioritize tasks to accomplish goals.
• Self-motivated, team player, and able to remain calm under stress.
• Associate's degree in forest management or an environmental or natural science curriculum and three years of related experience.

Nice To Haves

• Single Resource Boss qualified under National Wildfire Coordinating Group standards.
• Experience dealing with non-industrial private landowners.
• Experience in public speaking.
• Experience providing instruction in a classroom setting.

Responsibilities

• Promote the protection of the State's natural resources through wildfire suppression planning.
• Respond to emergencies such as wildland fires and natural disasters as an initial attack incident commander.
• Service landowner requests for forestry assistance, including reforestation and prescribed burning.
• Provide and promote forestry education through interaction with forestry partners and community organizations.
• Assist the District Forester with budget development and management for the work unit.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees