County Ranger

**Description of Work**:
The North Carolina Forest Service is designated as an emergency response Division and is a team of professionals who provide forest protection, resource management and environmental education to the residents and landowners of North Carolina through a variety of programs. The NC Forest Service provides services to the 100 counties in North Carolina.

The County Ranger is the lead for NCFS services provided in assigned work area. Position requires:

- Promote the protection of the State’s natural resources through development of wildfire suppression planning
- Respond in times of emergency such as wildland fires and natural disasters as an initial attack incident commander and/or in other ICS positions
- Service landowner requests for forestry assistance which may be reforestation, forest health, prescribed burning, etc.
- Provide and promote forestry education through interaction with forestry partners, schools, civic groups and school organizations such as Tree Farm, National Wild Turkey Federation, FFA and 4-H
- Assist the District Forester with development, management, and accountability of budget for the work unit

Work hours are typically 8-5 M-F. Extended times of readiness will involve evening, holiday, and/or weekend work. Must be available after working hours during fire danger periods and times of emergency response. Overnight travel will be required.
Residency requirements discussed at time of interview.
Duty Station Location: 366 Banner Farm Rd., Mills River, NC 28759
This position requires the successful completion of employer provided Ranger Training.
The N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services provide services that promote and improve agriculture, agribusiness and forests; protect consumers and businesses; and conserve farmland and natural resources for the prosperity of all North Carolinians. The Department employs approximately 2,000 employees.

**Knowledge, Skills and Abilities / Competencies**:

- Knowledge of forest management or wildfire suppression
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to organize and prioritize tasks to accomplish goals
- Must be self-motivated, a team player, and able to remain clam under stress

**MANAGEMENT PREFERENCES**:

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

**Minimum Education and Experience Requirements**:
**_You may qualify by an equivalent combination of education and experience, either through years of education or years of directly related experience, or a combination of both._**

Associate s degree in forest management or an environmental or natural science curriculum from an appropriately accredited institution and three years of related experience in providing forestry services;
or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

**Necessary Special Qualification**
Possession of a valid North Carolina driver s license required within 90 days of hire.

**Supplemental and Contact Information**:
Questions regarding this posting? Contact 919-707-3201.