FOREST RANGER SUPERVISOR/EXPERT

Location: Waldron, AR (Scott County) • Department of Agriculture • Hiring Manager: Shane Booth (Shane.booth@arkansas.gov)

About the role

The Forest Ranger Supervisor/Expert oversees and directs forestry operations, wildfire prevention and suppression, and conservation efforts in Arkansas’ state forests and public lands. This position involves leading a team of rangers, coordinating emergency response efforts, and managing public education programs on forest conservation. Supervisory duties are assigned based on the hiring agency’s operational needs; non-supervisory roles serve as senior technical experts.

Responsibilities

• Direct and supervise a team of forest rangers and seasonal staff in wildfire suppression, conservation efforts, and other duties.
• Assign duties, monitor performance, and provide coaching and professional development opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with state forestry policies, safety regulations, and fire control procedures.
• Develop and implement wildfire prevention strategies, including controlled burns and firebreak construction.
• Oversee fire suppression operations, ensuring rapid response and coordination with local fire departments, emergency services, and federal agencies.
• Train personnel in firefighting techniques, use of specialized equipment, and safety protocols.
• Oversee reforestation programs, timber harvesting operations, and habitat restoration projects.
• Monitor and manage forest health issues, such as disease outbreaks and invasive species.
• Ensure sustainable use of state forest resources.
• Conduct inspections of logging operations to ensure compliance with state permits and conservation practices.
• Respond to public inquiries and provide expert guidance on forestry management and fire prevention.
• Work closely with law enforcement agencies to prosecute forestry-related offenses.
• Assist in disaster response and recovery efforts related to wildfires, storms, and other natural hazards affecting state forests.
• Coordinate with state and federal emergency management agencies to develop response plans.
• Supervise deployment of personnel and resources in emergency situations.
• Oversee and assist in preventative maintenance and repair of agency vehicles, equipment, tools, and facilities.
• Function as Incident Commander on emergency incidents.

Requirements

• At least three years of experience in forestry, fire suppression, land management, or a related field, including one year in a leadership capacity.
• Must reside within assigned area and pass an annual physical-fitness standard as a condition of employment.
• Must possess a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) within 1 year of hire.

Skills

• Strong ability to lead, train, and motivate a team of forestry personnel.
• Skilled in delegating tasks and making critical decisions in high-pressure environments.
• Experience in personnel management, performance evaluations, and conflict resolution.
• Knowledge of forest fire behavior, suppression techniques, and controlled burns.
• Proficiency in GPS mapping, forestry equipment operation, and land surveying.
• Understanding of Arkansas forestry laws, conservation practices, and land management.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for public education.
• Ability to de-escalate conflicts and maintain professional relationships with landowners, government officials, and emergency responders.
• Ability to assess emergency situations quickly and implement effective response plans.
• Critical thinking to develop innovative solutions for forestry management challenges.
• Knowledge of National Incident Management Systems.
• Ability to communicate ideas orally and in writing.
• Ability to plan, organize, and oversee the work of others.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to work under extreme weather conditions, rough terrain, and potentially hazardous and/or dangerous conditions.
• May be required to work under extended subject-to-call status and extended work hours.

Pay

Salary range: $57,351 – $84,879 • Anticipated starting salary: $57,351