Forest Maintenance Worker (Semi Skilled Laborer) - Buchanan Forest District, Bedford County

THE POSITION

If you find enjoyment in outdoor endeavors and thrive in a hands-on role, the Buchanan Forest District within the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) invites you to explore a rewarding career with our team as a seasonal Forest Maintenance Worker. Here, you will take part in vital tasks involving the upkeep of our grounds, trails, and facilities, all while embracing the gratifying essence of public service. Do not miss this opportunity to contribute to the conservation, preservation, and enhancement of our natural landscapes, ensuring they remain pristine for future generations. This position not only provides you with a sense of personal achievement but also a pathway for professional growth and advancement. We look forward to meeting you!

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

This position performs semi-skilled maintenance work and assists with forest operations across Buchanan Forest District. Within this role, you will participate in facility upkeep, equipment use, forest protection, and general outdoor maintenance. As a Forest Maintenance Worker, you will perform the following duties:

• Facility Maintenance: Carry out janitorial duties and maintain buildings, tools, picnic areas, and recreation sites
• Road Work: Assist with culvert repair, surface work, ditch maintenance, and other state forest road tasks
• Equipment Operation: Use trucks, ATVs, chainsaws, pumps, generators, and other equipment after receiving required training
• Fire Support: Serve on the forest fire crew to help suppress wildfires after completing necessary safety training
• Repair Tasks: Perform minor repairs, paint boundary lines, fix signs, remove snow, and complete general maintenance
• Resource Stewardship: Plant trees, maintain fences, and support conservation projects throughout the forest district

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Seasonal, full-time employment with no health care benefits. There is not an option to buy into health care benefits. The season runs from approximately March 2026 until November 2026 at which time the employee will be placed on leave without pay. The employee will automatically be returned to employment in March 2027.
• Work hours are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute unpaid lunch.
• Overtime may be required in emergency situations such as wildfire suppression.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• One year of experience in laboring work including the use of tools and equipment used in maintenance or construction; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training.

Condition of Employment:

• This position requires possession of a valid PA non-commercial Class C driver's license or equivalent.

Other Requirements:

• You must meet the PA residency requirement. For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link and click on Residency Guidelines.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
• All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers