Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists Salary 2025: $56,870 Median, 15% Job Growth
Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists earn a median salary of $56,870 per year, according to the latest BLS data. The top 10% pull in over $105,460, while entry-level positions start around $35,420. With only 2,780 jobs nationwide, this is a small but critical occupation—and it's growing fast.
How much Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists earn
The national average salary for this role is $66,640, or about $27 per hour. Half of all workers earn between $42,120 and $79,760 (the middle 50%). The lowest-paid 10% make $35,420 or less, often in entry-level or rural positions.
Pay varies significantly by experience, employer type, and location. Federal government jobs (the largest employer) tend to pay higher than state or local agencies. Overtime and hazard pay can boost annual earnings, especially during wildfire season.
Pay by state
California leads with an average salary of $97,370, nearly 50% above the national mean. Utah ($90,020) and Louisiana ($75,480) also offer strong pay. Oregon ($73,530) and Maine ($68,310) round out the top five.
On the lower end, Mississippi pays an average of just $31,720—less than half the national mean. Alabama ($37,430) and Arkansas ($43,310) also lag well behind. If you're willing to relocate for the highest wages, the West and Northeast are your best bets.
How to become Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialist
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent, though some prefer an associate's or bachelor's degree in forestry, fire science, or natural resources. Relevant work experience—such as being a firefighter or forestry technician—is often required.
Key steps: 1) Gain firefighting or forestry experience (often 1-3 years). 2) Obtain certifications like the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) qualifications (e.g., Firefighter Type 1, Incident Commander). 3) Pass a physical fitness test and background check. 4) Apply for positions with the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, or state forestry agencies. On-the-job training is common.
- High school diploma minimum; associate's or bachelor's preferred
- Prior firefighting or forestry experience is typical
- Certifications from NWCG or similar bodies
- Physical fitness test and background check required
Job outlook
Employment for Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists is projected to grow 14.6% from 2024 to 2034—much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 300 job openings each year, largely due to replacement needs and increasing wildfire risks linked to climate change.
Despite the small base of 2,780 jobs, the growth rate is strong. Competition for positions may be moderate, but those with relevant experience and certifications will have the best prospects. Federal agencies, especially in western states, are the biggest employers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists in 2025?
The median salary is $56,870 per year, with a typical range from $35,420 (10th percentile) to $105,460 (90th percentile). The average hourly wage is about $27.
How do I become a Forest Fire Inspector and Prevention Specialist?
You'll need at least a high school diploma, but many employers prefer an associate's or bachelor's degree in fire science or forestry. Prior experience as a firefighter or forestry technician is usually required, along with NWCG certifications and a physical fitness test.
What is the job growth for this career?
Employment is expected to grow 14.6% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average. About 300 openings per year are projected, driven by increased wildfire activity and retirements.
Which states pay the most for this job?
California ($97,370), Utah ($90,020), Louisiana ($75,480), Oregon ($73,530), and Maine ($68,310) offer the highest average salaries. Mississippi ($31,720), Alabama ($37,430), and Arkansas ($43,310) are the lowest.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Forest Fire Inspectors and Prevention Specialists data.