Mendocino National Forest announces seasonal hiring for upcoming field season

By Elizabeth Larson | Feb. 15, 2026

MENDOCINO NATIONAL FOREST, Calif. – The Mendocino National Forest is hiring seasonal employees for the upcoming field season and is encouraging local residents to apply.

Application periods, qualifications and start dates may vary by position, and announcements will be open on USAJOBS.gov as soon as Feb. 20.

“We are excited to share job opportunities that offer meaningful work, hands-on experience, and the chance to support public lands close to home,” said Wade McMaster, Mendocino National Forest supervisor.

The Mendocino National Forest is recruiting the following seasonal positions to support recreation and forestry: 

Forestry Technician, Recreation – Duty locations in Chico, Covelo, Upper Lake and Willows.
Forestry Technician, Timber – Duty location in Willows.

These positions are in addition to seasonal fire hire events, already underway. Bringing on seasonal employees will help improve trails, campgrounds and facilities for safer, reliable and enjoyable recreation experiences for all.

“Seasonal jobs can be a first step into a natural resources career, a way to build experience, or simply a chance to spend the summer working outside,” added McMaster. “We encourage anyone interested to apply.”

How to apply

Applicants will be able view open job announcements and submit applications through USAJOBS.gov

Announcements are anticipated to open Feb. 20. Applicants are encouraged to use this time to develop their resumes, cover letters, and other material.

People interested in applying will need to establish accounts on USAJOBS, and prepare a resume that meets requirements. 

USAJOBS to help applicants get started at https://help.usajobs.gov/get-started

Potential applicants must be 18 years old by their first day of work.

Working for the Forest Service

To learn more about Forest Service careers, benefits and upcoming hiring events, visit fs.usda.gov/working-with-us/careers

To learn more about the Mendocino National Forest, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/r05/mendocino