Forest Ecologist Jobs
Forest Ecologist jobs are open across government agencies, conservation nonprofits, consulting firms, and research universities, at every level from field technician to senior scientist and program director, with specializations in forest inventory, wildfire ecology, and carbon monitoring. Find a role that fits from the openings below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 712+ Forest Ecologist jobs
Description
Forest Crew Supervisor - Correctional Facility
Recruitment #2026-6-7799
Full-time, Permanent, Represented position (WPEA)
Location: South Puget Sound Region - Littlerock, WA
Relocation Compensation may be available and considered
Salary: $4,093.00 - $5,501.00 Monthly
Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 06/11/26. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.
Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our South Puget Sound Region. We are currently seeking a highly motivated individual to fill a vacancy for our Forest Crew Supervisor - Corrections Facility position at Cedar Creek Correction Center, located in Littlerock, WA. While highly demanding, this position is also highly rewarding for those who want to truly make a difference within a diverse and unique work group. Duties of this position include supervision of up to ten incarcerated adults who engage in a variety of forest crafts, including wildland fire suppression, vegetation management, and habitat enhancement. The primary emphasis will be on providing leadership, safety oversight, and training for a forestry crew. Travel is required during fire season and other emergency responses. Cedar Creek crews have a commitment to hard work in arduous conditions on wildland fires and in various forest health operations.
Duties
Responsibilities:
The primary responsibilities of this position are the training, productivity, and safety of incarcerated individuals who engage in wildland firefighting and forest crafts operations. During fire season, the position will require assignments to remote fire camps for extended periods. During fire season, applicants can expect workdays that routinely exceed the standard 10 hours per day and may include weekend and holiday assignments. The successful applicant will be trusted to primarily recruit, mentor, and train incarcerated individuals in forest craft skills while supervising a 10-person adult male offender crew. These skills will be used to help protect communities, manage DNR State lands assets, and help incarcerated offenders develop job skills that can be used when they are released from incarceration. The successful applicant will be trusted to foster and maintain an interactive relationship with the DOC in order to ensure that incarcerated individuals are effectively managed across both state agencies according to the WACs, RCWs, and interagency agreements. The key to this position will be the applicant’s ability to communicate, problem solve, manage, and lead cooperatively with peers and supervisors.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
You must meet all the Required Qualifications and Competencies to be considered for this position. There are multiple pathways to meet qualifications, such as education, volunteer work, life skills, and experience. It is important that you clearly communicate in your application material that your skills align with the position and qualifications.
- Experience in some or all of the following forest crafts, which include: forest seedling planting, forest plantation, vegetation management, pre-commercial thinning, recreation trail and facilities construction and maintenance, chainsaw use and maintenance, hand tool use and maintenance, and wildland fire suppression.
OR technical/professional forestry knowledge and skills which are acquired through the completion of a 2-year or 4-year degree in forest management or a closely related field, program, or study. - Six months' supervisory experience either in an adult/juvenile correctional environment or a professional production-based business.
- Supervisory experience in a diverse work setting that is centered on safety and security.
- Possess the ability to communicate well both verbally and in writing using common technology.
Required Competencies:
- Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.
- Perform assigned duties in a manner consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and public records retention and requests are followed.
- DNR Core Competencies:
- Personal Accountability
- Value Others
- Compassionate Communication
- Inspire Others
- Commitment to Excellence
Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:
- Due to the sensitive and confidential nature of this position, an NCIC Background Investigation will be conducted on the successful candidate.
- During the first year of employment, successful candidates must attain the level of FF2 by passing guard school, in which S-130, S-190, S-212, and L-180 are taught.
- During the second year of employment, employees must attend and pass the S-131 FF1 class and work towards completion of the FF1 task book.
- Upon Completion of the FF1 task book, employees are expected to work towards IC5 certification and Single Resource-Crew Boss certification.
- Must pass the arduous work capacity test annually, which consists of carrying a 45-pound pack three miles in under forty-five minutes.
- Maintains a valid First-AID, CPR, and AED card.
Attend any offered trainings, pass trailer towing training, and maintain or stay current with all requirements of this position. FCSs typically work in various outdoor settings such as forested areas, wildland urban interface areas, desert basalt, and scabland settings. Must have the physical ability to traverse all uneven terrain. Must be able to work in all weather conditions. Must be able to work in and on DOC institutional grounds. Must be able to abide by all DNR and DOC policies.
- Must be able to operate a 12-person dual, four-wheel drive vehicle on improved roadways and off-road settings. Drive time may exceed 1 hour each way, with occasional drive times up to 10 hours required during emergency response. Must be able to tow trailers that vary in length from 12’ up to 16’.
- A current, valid driver’s license and two years of driving experience. Additionally, DNR requires state drivers to possess a license that is not suspended, revoked, or restricted (for example, Occupational/Restricted Driver Licenses or requiring ignition interlock devices). This position requires driving as an essential function. Finalists and/or interview candidates will be asked to provide a driving record from all states in which they have held a license during the past three years.
Desired Qualifications:
These qualifications are not required. However, it can help you stand out as a candidate and should be highlighted in your application material.
Knowledge of:
- Wildland fire suppression
- Forest data collection
- Natural resource management methods, practices, and techniques
- Use of equipment and tools
- Maintaining safe working conditions in outdoor work environments
Experience in:
- Supervision of adult incarcerated individuals
- Work experience that demonstrates:
- Leadership skills
- Conflict resolution
- Interpersonal communication skills
- Professionalism
- Wildland fire suppression
- Silvicultural work (tree planting, vegetation management, and pre-commercial thinning)
- Recreation trail and facilities construction and maintenance
- Operating a vehicle on forest roads
- Microsoft Suite
Technical / Professional knowledge, skills, and licenses:
- Current pesticide applicator license in Washington State, including Laws and Safety, Right of Way, Agricultural Weed, and Aquatics endorsements (or the ability to obtain)
- Red Card Qualification of any Single Resource Boss (preferably Crew Boss)
- A 2 or 4-year college-level course of study in natural resources, fire science, or other applicable field
At DNR, we value diversity and inclusion and are committed to hiring the best candidate for the job. Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position. If you have any questions about the qualifications, please email us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.
Supplemental Information
Application Requirements: Failure to provide the listed documents may result in disqualification. If you have questions or difficulty attaching these documents, please contact DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.
- Apply online: at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).
- Letter of interest: describing your specific qualifications for the position and the position required, desired, and special requirements.
- Resume: that details your experience and qualifications.
- References: References are optional at the time your application is submitted. Finalists will be asked to provide a list of at least 3 professional references with current telephone numbers, including your current or most recent supervisor.
- Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (Social Security number, year of birth, etc.).
- Complete all supplemental questions.
- Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at info@governmentjobs.com with interview information/scheduling instructions. Please monitor the email listed in your application materials and check your junk email folder to ensure you receive those communications.
Questions? Please contact Shane Calvert at shane.calvert@dnr.wa.gov/360-359-4053 or Dave Gufler at dave.gufler@dnr.wa.gov/360-359-4051 or email us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.
Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
At DNR, we approach our work through the lens of making Washington a better place environmentally and are dedicated to serving Washington’s lands and communities through diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Our Vision – Our actions ensure a future where Washington’s lands, waters, and communities thrive.
Our Mission – Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington’s lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Our Core Values:
- Safety and Well-Being — Our top priority is the safety of the public and our employees.
- Public Service — We value and respect the public we serve, and we value and respect the people of the Department of Natural Resources who step up to serve.
- Innovation and Creative Problem-Solving — We solve our state’s most pressing challenges through innovative thinking, dedication, and bold and creative vision.
- Leadership and Teamwork — We are committed to building leaders at all levels and building teams for success.
DNR provides excellent benefits, a few of which include:
- Commitment to organizational health and wellness
- Work/life balance
- DNR Employee Resource Groups (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, Women’s Employee Resource Group, Veterans Employee Resource Group, etc.)
- Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups, visit here to learn more
- Leadership that empowers and supports employees
- Professional development opportunities
- Educational and career development aid
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility
- Opportunities to participate in wildland fire suppression assignments
- A comprehensive benefits package includes employer contributions toward health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, sick leave, and vacation days. Visit http://careers.wa.gov/benefits.html for more information.
Additional Information:
This recruitment may be extended and used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.
DNR does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.
Veterans wishing to claim Veteran’s preference, please attach a copy of your DD-214, NGB-22, or other verification of military service. Please black out your Social Security number before attaching it. We thank you and are grateful for your service!
Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Natural Resources is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
Once you submit your online application, you can check your status by logging into your account. If you experience technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, call 360-664-1960 or 1-877-664-1960 or email CareersHelp@des.wa.gov.
Check us out on: DNR’s website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | WordPress
Description
Forest Crew Supervisor - Correctional Facility
Recruitment #2026-6-7799
Full-time, Permanent, Represented position (WPEA)
Location: South Puget Sound Region - Littlerock, WA
Relocation Compensation may be available and considered
Salary: $4,093.00 - $5,501.00 Monthly
Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 06/11/26. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.
Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our South Puget Sound Region. We are currently seeking a highly motivated individual to fill a vacancy for our Forest Crew Supervisor - Corrections Facility position at Cedar Creek Correction Center, located in Littlerock, WA. While highly demanding, this position is also highly rewarding for those who want to truly make a difference within a diverse and unique work group. Duties of this position include supervision of up to ten incarcerated adults who engage in a variety of forest crafts, including wildland fire suppression, vegetation management, and habitat enhancement. The primary emphasis will be on providing leadership, safety oversight, and training for a forestry crew. Travel is required during fire season and other emergency responses. Cedar Creek crews have a commitment to hard work in arduous conditions on wildland fires and in various forest health operations.
Duties
Responsibilities:
The primary responsibilities of this position are the training, productivity, and safety of incarcerated individuals who engage in wildland firefighting and forest crafts operations. During fire season, the position will require assignments to remote fire camps for extended periods. During fire season, applicants can expect workdays that routinely exceed the standard 10 hours per day and may include weekend and holiday assignments. The successful applicant will be trusted to primarily recruit, mentor, and train incarcerated individuals in forest craft skills while supervising a 10-person adult male offender crew. These skills will be used to help protect communities, manage DNR State lands assets, and help incarcerated offenders develop job skills that can be used when they are released from incarceration. The successful applicant will be trusted to foster and maintain an interactive relationship with the DOC in order to ensure that incarcerated individuals are effectively managed across both state agencies according to the WACs, RCWs, and interagency agreements. The key to this position will be the applicant’s ability to communicate, problem solve, manage, and lead cooperatively with peers and supervisors.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
You must meet all the Required Qualifications and Competencies to be considered for this position. There are multiple pathways to meet qualifications, such as education, volunteer work, life skills, and experience. It is important that you clearly communicate in your application material that your skills align with the position and qualifications.
- Experience in some or all of the following forest crafts, which include: forest seedling planting, forest plantation, vegetation management, pre-commercial thinning, recreation trail and facilities construction and maintenance, chainsaw use and maintenance, hand tool use and maintenance, and wildland fire suppression.
OR technical/professional forestry knowledge and skills which are acquired through the completion of a 2-year or 4-year degree in forest management or a closely related field, program, or study. - Six months' supervisory experience either in an adult/juvenile correctional environment or a professional production-based business.
- Supervisory experience in a diverse work setting that is centered on safety and security.
- Possess the ability to communicate well both verbally and in writing using common technology.
Required Competencies:
- Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.
- Perform assigned duties in a manner consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and public records retention and requests are followed.
- DNR Core Competencies:
- Personal Accountability
- Value Others
- Compassionate Communication
- Inspire Others
- Commitment to Excellence
Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:
- Due to the sensitive and confidential nature of this position, an NCIC Background Investigation will be conducted on the successful candidate.
- During the first year of employment, successful candidates must attain the level of FF2 by passing guard school, in which S-130, S-190, S-212, and L-180 are taught.
- During the second year of employment, employees must attend and pass the S-131 FF1 class and work towards completion of the FF1 task book.
- Upon Completion of the FF1 task book, employees are expected to work towards IC5 certification and Single Resource-Crew Boss certification.
- Must pass the arduous work capacity test annually, which consists of carrying a 45-pound pack three miles in under forty-five minutes.
- Maintains a valid First-AID, CPR, and AED card.
Attend any offered trainings, pass trailer towing training, and maintain or stay current with all requirements of this position. FCSs typically work in various outdoor settings such as forested areas, wildland urban interface areas, desert basalt, and scabland settings. Must have the physical ability to traverse all uneven terrain. Must be able to work in all weather conditions. Must be able to work in and on DOC institutional grounds. Must be able to abide by all DNR and DOC policies.
- Must be able to operate a 12-person dual, four-wheel drive vehicle on improved roadways and off-road settings. Drive time may exceed 1 hour each way, with occasional drive times up to 10 hours required during emergency response. Must be able to tow trailers that vary in length from 12’ up to 16’.
- A current, valid driver’s license and two years of driving experience. Additionally, DNR requires state drivers to possess a license that is not suspended, revoked, or restricted (for example, Occupational/Restricted Driver Licenses or requiring ignition interlock devices). This position requires driving as an essential function. Finalists and/or interview candidates will be asked to provide a driving record from all states in which they have held a license during the past three years.
Desired Qualifications:
These qualifications are not required. However, it can help you stand out as a candidate and should be highlighted in your application material.
Knowledge of:
- Wildland fire suppression
- Forest data collection
- Natural resource management methods, practices, and techniques
- Use of equipment and tools
- Maintaining safe working conditions in outdoor work environments
Experience in:
- Supervision of adult incarcerated individuals
- Work experience that demonstrates:
- Leadership skills
- Conflict resolution
- Interpersonal communication skills
- Professionalism
- Wildland fire suppression
- Silvicultural work (tree planting, vegetation management, and pre-commercial thinning)
- Recreation trail and facilities construction and maintenance
- Operating a vehicle on forest roads
- Microsoft Suite
Technical / Professional knowledge, skills, and licenses:
- Current pesticide applicator license in Washington State, including Laws and Safety, Right of Way, Agricultural Weed, and Aquatics endorsements (or the ability to obtain)
- Red Card Qualification of any Single Resource Boss (preferably Crew Boss)
- A 2 or 4-year college-level course of study in natural resources, fire science, or other applicable field
At DNR, we value diversity and inclusion and are committed to hiring the best candidate for the job. Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position. If you have any questions about the qualifications, please email us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.
Supplemental Information
Application Requirements: Failure to provide the listed documents may result in disqualification. If you have questions or difficulty attaching these documents, please contact DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.
- Apply online: at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).
- Letter of interest: describing your specific qualifications for the position and the position required, desired, and special requirements.
- Resume: that details your experience and qualifications.
- References: References are optional at the time your application is submitted. Finalists will be asked to provide a list of at least 3 professional references with current telephone numbers, including your current or most recent supervisor.
- Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (Social Security number, year of birth, etc.).
- Complete all supplemental questions.
- Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at info@governmentjobs.com with interview information/scheduling instructions. Please monitor the email listed in your application materials and check your junk email folder to ensure you receive those communications.
Questions? Please contact Shane Calvert at shane.calvert@dnr.wa.gov/360-359-4053 or Dave Gufler at dave.gufler@dnr.wa.gov/360-359-4051 or email us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.
Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
At DNR, we approach our work through the lens of making Washington a better place environmentally and are dedicated to serving Washington’s lands and communities through diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Our Vision – Our actions ensure a future where Washington’s lands, waters, and communities thrive.
Our Mission – Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington’s lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Our Core Values:
- Safety and Well-Being — Our top priority is the safety of the public and our employees.
- Public Service — We value and respect the public we serve, and we value and respect the people of the Department of Natural Resources who step up to serve.
- Innovation and Creative Problem-Solving — We solve our state’s most pressing challenges through innovative thinking, dedication, and bold and creative vision.
- Leadership and Teamwork — We are committed to building leaders at all levels and building teams for success.
DNR provides excellent benefits, a few of which include:
- Commitment to organizational health and wellness
- Work/life balance
- DNR Employee Resource Groups (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, Women’s Employee Resource Group, Veterans Employee Resource Group, etc.)
- Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups, visit here to learn more
- Leadership that empowers and supports employees
- Professional development opportunities
- Educational and career development aid
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility
- Opportunities to participate in wildland fire suppression assignments
- A comprehensive benefits package includes employer contributions toward health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, sick leave, and vacation days. Visit http://careers.wa.gov/benefits.html for more information.
Additional Information:
This recruitment may be extended and used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.
DNR does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.
Veterans wishing to claim Veteran’s preference, please attach a copy of your DD-214, NGB-22, or other verification of military service. Please black out your Social Security number before attaching it. We thank you and are grateful for your service!
Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Natural Resources is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.
Once you submit your online application, you can check your status by logging into your account. If you experience technical difficulties creating, accessing, or completing your application, call 360-664-1960 or 1-877-664-1960 or email CareersHelp@des.wa.gov.
Check us out on: DNR’s website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | WordPress
See All 712+ Forest Ecologist Jobs
Jump back to the full list of openings and apply to any forest ecologist role that fits.
Find Forest Ecologist JobsForest Ecologist Job Market
A snapshot from current openings nationwide, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Forest River62
- Northwestern Medicine29
- Tahoe Forest Health System24
- State Farm20
- Grainger19
Top Industries Hiring
- Healthcare & Medical Services165
- Retail97
- Education47
- Food & Beverage42
- Technology & Software39
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in forest ecologist jobs.
- Bachelor's or master's degree in ecology, forestry, or a closely related natural-resource science
- Proficiency in ArcGIS or equivalent GIS software for spatial analysis and mapping
- Experience designing and executing forest inventory or vegetation monitoring protocols
- Familiarity with statistical software such as R or Python for analyzing ecological datasets
- Physical ability to conduct fieldwork in rugged terrain under variable weather conditions
- Knowledge of federal or state environmental compliance frameworks such as NEPA or state forest practice acts
Tips for Your Forest Ecologist Job Search
Quantify your field data experience
Hiring managers want to see the scale of your fieldwork. Call out the acreage you surveyed, the number of permanent plots you established, or the years of long-term monitoring data you contributed to. Vague references to fieldwork get skipped.
List every GIS and remote-sensing tool
ArcGIS, R, Python, LiDAR processing, and Google Earth Engine appear constantly in forest ecologist postings. Put them in a dedicated technical skills section, not buried in job descriptions, so resume screeners and applicant tracking systems catch them immediately.
Tailor applications to the funding source
A role funded by a state forestry agency wants different language than one tied to a federal research grant or a carbon-market project. Match your resume's framing to the employer's mission, whether that's timber management, biodiversity conservation, or climate reporting.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists forest ecologist openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Prepare a species and methods portfolio
Before interviews, assemble a one-page summary of the tree species, forest types, and sampling methods you know best. Panels for forest ecologist roles often ask you to walk through a past study design, and a prepared summary keeps your answer precise.
Negotiate start dates around field season
If an offer arrives in late spring, ask whether a start date after peak field season is possible. Many agencies expect this conversation and will accommodate it, and raising it early signals you understand operational realities rather than creating friction at the offer stage.
Forest Ecologist Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most forest ecologists?
The companies hiring the most forest ecologists right now include Forest River, Northwestern Medicine, and Tahoe Forest Health System, with the largest share of openings in Illinois, North Carolina, and California, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. Federal agencies, state forestry departments, and environmental consulting firms consistently drive the highest volume of postings.
How many forest ecologist jobs are remote?
About 8% of forest ecologist openings are fully remote or hybrid as of June 2026, which is lower than most science disciplines because the role is fieldwork-intensive. Data analysis, report writing, and grant coordination roles within forest ecology are the sub-areas most likely to carry a remote or hybrid arrangement.
How do you become a forest ecologist?
Start with a bachelor's degree in ecology, forestry, or environmental science, then build field experience through internships, REU programs, or volunteer positions with land management agencies. A master's degree strengthens your candidacy for research and senior roles. Gain proficiency in GIS and statistical software, and pursue certifications in forest inventory methods or prescribed fire if your target sector values them.
How do you get hired as a forest ecologist with little experience?
Focus on roles titled field technician, biological science technician, or forestry aide, which are the entry points most agencies use before promoting into ecologist classifications. Volunteer for trail crews, invasive species removal projects, or citizen science programs to build documented field hours. A strong senior thesis or independent research project that demonstrates sampling design and data analysis can substitute for professional experience in early applications.
What does the forest ecologist interview process look like?
Most employers run a structured panel interview with two to four reviewers, often including a field supervisor and a program manager. Expect behavioral questions about past study designs, safety decision-making in remote terrain, and how you handled data quality issues. Some federal and state agencies add a written exercise or ask you to interpret a dataset or map on the spot before the panel conversation.
Where can I find and apply to forest ecologist jobs?
You can find and apply to forest ecologist jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers across the United States in one place. Search the listings, find roles that match your background and target location, and apply directly to each one that fits.
See All 712+ Forest Ecologist Jobs
Jump back to the full list of openings and apply to any forest ecologist role that fits.
Find Forest Ecologist Jobs