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Forest and Conservation Workers

SOC 45-4011.00Job Zone 2 · Some Preparation

Under supervision, perform manual labor necessary to develop, maintain, or protect areas such as forests, forested areas, woodlands, wetlands, and rangelands through such activities as raising and transporting seedlings; combating insects, pests, and diseases harmful to plant life; and building structures to control water, erosion, and leaching of soil. Includes forester aides, seedling pullers, tree planters, and similar workers.

Context coveredPublic-land restoration crews, private-forestry operations, conservation corps, seedling nurseries; planting, brush control, prescribed-fire support, trail and erosion-control work.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Hand tools (planting bars, hoedads, hand saws) — use safely under a crew lead's direction on a planting unit.
  2. Personal protective equipment (hardhats, chaps, boots, eye-and-ear) — apply consistently in the woods.
  3. Daily safety briefings (terrain, weather, equipment, wildlife) — participate and apply on the unit.
  4. Standard planting patterns and spacing — execute per the contract or crew lead's call.
  5. Hand-saw and brush-tool work — perform on routine release or trail maintenance.
  6. Seedling handling (storage, transport, watering) — perform per the nursery's protocol.
  7. Daily-task records (acres planted, hours, materials) — maintain accurately for the lead.
  8. Crew communications — relay clearly with the lead and other crews on the radio.
  9. Wildland-fire safety basics (LCES, fuels, escape routes) — recognize and apply on prescribed-fire-support assignments.
  10. Stream-crossing and BMP rules — follow without prompting on assigned units.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Chainsaw work at the bucking and limbing level — operate safely with documented S-212 training.
  2. Brush-saw, weed-whip, and herbicide-application equipment — operate per the applicator's plan.
  3. Tree planting at production pace and quality — perform reliably across a season.
  4. Trail and erosion-control structures — build per design and BMPs.
  5. Prescribed-fire support tasks (firing, holding, mop-up) — execute under a burn boss's direction.
  6. Junior workers and new crews — train on safety, technique, and pace.
  7. Equipment maintenance (saws, vehicles, hand tools) — perform daily and weekly.
  8. Routine GPS-and-compass navigation — execute confidently on unfamiliar units.
  9. Wildlife and TES species protocols — follow per the unit's management plan.
  10. Customer-and-agency interactions — conduct on routine field visits.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Crew-boss leadership — supervise a 6–10-person crew across forestry and conservation contracts.
  2. Sawyer certifications (B and C) — hold and apply on prescribed-fire and restoration units.
  3. Contract execution and quality control — own from layout through acceptance.
  4. Crew safety and incident management — lead with measurable reductions in injuries.
  5. Cross-disciplinary projects (timber, wildlife, recreation) — coordinate with foresters and biologists.
  6. Continuous-improvement projects (planting quality, equipment uptime, fuel use) — lead with measurable outcomes.
  7. Junior crew bosses — mentor on contract management and personnel.
  8. Equipment fleets and shop coordination — manage at task level for the operation.
  9. Customer- and agency-relationship management — own at routine operations level.
  10. Wildland-fire qualifications (FFT1, FAL3, ICT5) — maintain across the season.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Operations leadership for a forestry or conservation contractor — set direction across staff, contracts, and equipment.
  2. Capital decisions (vehicles, equipment, training programs) — author with the owner or board.
  3. Major contracts with USFS, BLM, state, and private timber — own from bid through closeout.
  4. Workforce development and apprenticeship programs — build with conservation corps and tribal partners.
  5. Safety culture and incident-investigation programs — institutionalize across crews.
  6. Industry forums (logger associations, conservation networks) — represent the operation.
  7. Disaster response (fire, storm, insect) — lead at operation level with agencies and partners.
  8. Capital and operating budgets — own with executive sponsorship.
  9. Talent pipelines from rural and tribal communities — build with measurable retention.
  10. Legacy mentorship and field-shaping standards — institutionalize through training and certification.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. Basic AI tool orientation — uses a smartphone or tablet app with AI-assisted species or hazard identification to cross-check observations made in the field, deferring final judgment to a supervisor WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Equipment monitoring support — queries an AI assistant to interpret sensor readings or maintenance alerts from forestry equipment, then confirms findings through direct physical inspection before reporting WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Fire behavior lookup — inputs current weather and terrain data into an AI-enabled decision-support tool to retrieve fire behavior predictions, using the output as a briefing aid before conferring with fire suppression officers.
Proficient
  1. Prescribed burn planning assistance — directs an AI tool to synthesize burn unit data, weather windows, and regulatory requirements into a preliminary burn plan checklist, then validates each item against on-the-ground conditions and crew capacity Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Safety briefing preparation — uses an AI assistant to draft daily safety talking points from incident reports and equipment checklists, editing the output to reflect site-specific hazards before delivering the briefing to the crew WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  3. Critical thinking applied to AI output — evaluates AI-generated recommendations for cutting heights or brush disposal against observed stand conditions, overriding outputs that fail the mid-range automation reliability implied by a SAFI score of 57.9 for critical thinking tasks Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. AI-integrated monitoring workflow — designs a field monitoring protocol that feeds crew-collected data into an AI analysis pipeline, interprets the structured output to detect vegetation or erosion trends, and translates findings into actionable work orders WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Autonomous task boundary-setting — defines which conservation and fire-suppression subtasks are suitable for AI-assisted decision support versus which require unmediated human judgment in dynamic field conditions, and trains junior workers to apply that distinction consistently Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Critical Thinking
Score: 57.9 / 100
precision: category_estimate
WEF cluster
Technology Use, Monitoring and Control
technology_use_monitoring_control
Sources:WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication11 statements
Emerging
  1. Crew safety briefing reception — listens to pre-shift safety instructions and repeats back key hazards to supervisor before entering field operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Work order comprehension — reads basic forestry task sheets and identifies assigned cutting heights, treatment zones, or burn unit boundaries O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Peer check-in — verbally confirms task understanding with an experienced crew member before operating brush disposal or tree-felling equipment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Field status reporting — communicates equipment malfunctions or trail conditions to a foreperson using accurate forestry terminology during daily operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Hazard communication — describes observed fire behavior, smoke color, or wind shifts to a fire suppression officer using standard wildfire reporting language O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Crew coordination dialogue — discusses cutting sequence and spacing requirements with co-workers to align on safe work zones before chainsaw operations begin O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Interagency radio communication — transmits clear, concise situation reports over radio to fire dispatch or adjacent crews using ICS communication protocols during prescribed burn operations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Public contact explanation — explains trail closure rationale or vegetation management activities to visiting public in plain language while maintaining professional demeanor O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Written incident documentation — completes accurate post-incident or equipment failure reports that convey sequence of events, contributing factors, and corrective actions taken Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-crew briefing delivery — leads pre-ignition safety briefings for multi-crew prescribed burn operations, tailoring message to mixed experience levels and confirming comprehension through structured question prompts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Training material development — drafts field-ready job aids and visual guides for new workers covering fire line construction techniques, equipment checks, and brush disposal procedures Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership9 statements
Emerging
  1. Personal task ownership — completes assigned reforestation or brushing tasks without requiring repeated direction, demonstrating early accountability on the work site Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer encouragement — supports less experienced crew members during physically demanding tasks such as hand-planting or fire line construction through verbal motivation and task modeling Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Small team coordination — organizes a two- or three-person sub-crew during slash pile burning or firebreak construction, distributing tools and sequencing tasks for safe workflow Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety initiative — identifies an emerging hazard on the fire line or logging unit and directs nearby workers to safe distance before notifying the foreperson Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Crew lead execution — directs a full crew through a prescribed burning operation, assigning ignition, holding, and mop-up roles and adjusting task assignments as conditions change O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment readiness accountability — ensures all crew tools and power equipment are inspected and deficiencies documented before departing for the field, holding crew members to standard Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Mentored onboarding — guides new seasonal workers through equipment operation procedures and site-specific safety protocols over their first weeks on the unit Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Operational decision authority — assumes incident command responsibilities for initial-attack suppression on small escaped prescribed fires, deploying crew resources and communicating with dispatch until relief arrives O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Program improvement leadership — identifies systemic gaps in crew equipment maintenance routines and proposes revised inspection checklists adopted unit-wide Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Skill gap recognition — identifies personal unfamiliarity with a chainsaw technique or fire tool and requests demonstration from a technician before attempting the task independently Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Post-task reflection — reviews errors in planting spacing or brush pile construction at end of shift and adjusts personal technique for the following day Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Learning strategy selection — chooses to shadow an experienced operator during first prescribed burn participation rather than attempting independent ignition duties, calibrating readiness accurately Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Fatigue self-monitoring — recognizes personal physical limits during extended fire suppression shifts and communicates readiness status to supervisor before accepting additional assignments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Performance self-assessment — evaluates personal proficiency with fire line construction methods against crew standards and pursues targeted practice or certification to close identified gaps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Situational awareness calibration — monitors own attention level during high-heat suppression work and applies hydration and rest strategies to maintain cognitive acuity throughout the operational period Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Adaptive learning modeling — articulates personal learning process to newer workers when demonstrating how to read fire behavior cues, making cognitive strategy visible and transferable Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Continual improvement planning — tracks personal performance across multiple prescribed burn seasons, identifying recurring decision-making patterns and setting measurable skill development goals each year Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking9 statements
Emerging
  1. Equipment condition assessment — inspects chainsaw, Pulaski, or hand tools before use and identifies visible defects that require removal from service Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Basic fire risk reading — identifies dry fuel conditions, wind direction, and slope during orientation and relates those factors to increased ignition risk O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Cause-and-effect analysis — evaluates why a planted seedling block is showing poor survival and links mortality to soil preparation quality, spacing, or post-plant browse pressure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Work-order conflict resolution — notices that prescribed cutting heights on a work order conflict with slope conditions observed on site and escalates the discrepancy to the foreperson before proceeding Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Fire behavior evaluation — analyzes real-time fuel moisture readings, weather forecasts, and ignition prescription parameters to determine whether conditions are within the burn window Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Suppression tactics judgment — selects direct versus indirect attack strategy on a fire line based on flame length, spotting frequency, and crew size available, explaining the reasoning to crew Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Treatment effectiveness assessment — compares pre- and post-treatment vegetation density data across harvest units and draws conclusions about whether mechanical thinning achieved silvicultural objectives O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Multi-factor risk synthesis — integrates weather, fuel load, terrain, and crew fatigue data to recommend a go/no-go decision for prescribed burn implementation to the burn boss Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Systemic problem diagnosis — traces repeated equipment failures on a brush-cutting unit to a maintenance scheduling gap, proposes a revised preventive maintenance protocol, and monitors its effectiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration9 statements
Emerging
  1. Tool-sharing coordination — coordinates with adjacent crew members during hand-planting operations to avoid overlap and ensure efficient coverage of assigned reforestation units Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety pair compliance — works within required buddy system protocols during remote field operations, maintaining visual or radio contact with a partner at all times Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Fire crew integration — fulfills an assigned holding or mop-up role within a prescribed burn crew, synchronizing actions with ignition and patrol teams to maintain safe conditions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-functional task sharing — supports forestry technicians during data collection activities such as fuel load transects, contributing accurate tally counts and flagging discrepancies O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Multi-agency fire crew coordination — works alongside crews from different agencies on a wildfire assignment, adapting to varied protocols and maintaining unified suppression objectives Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer conflict navigation — addresses a disagreement about safe felling direction with a co-worker by referencing the applicable cutting standard and reaching consensus before proceeding Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Interagency project participation — contributes effectively to joint vegetation management projects involving state, federal, and tribal crews, respecting varied organizational cultures and communication styles O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Collaborative planning contribution — participates actively in prescribed burn plan development meetings, offering field-level observations that improve operational logistics and crew safety provisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Mentorship partnership — pairs with a forestry technician to co-develop a structured onboarding experience for seasonal hires, coordinating responsibilities and evaluating outcomes jointly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character9 statements
Emerging
  1. Equipment accountability — returns all issued tools clean and properly stored at end of shift without needing reminders, demonstrating personal responsibility for public resources Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Honest error reporting — reports a planting error or equipment damage to a supervisor promptly and accurately rather than concealing the incident Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Public land stewardship — treats all forest resources, wildlife habitat, and cultural sites encountered during operations with demonstrated care and legal compliance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Regulation adherence — follows prescribed burn ignition limits, chemical application rates, and logging safety standards precisely, even when unsupervised in remote field settings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical field decision-making — refuses to proceed with a task that violates a safety protocol or environmental regulation even under schedule pressure, and documents the refusal formally Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Professional conduct under stress — maintains respectful, professional behavior with co-workers and the public during high-stress fire suppression or emergency response situations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Consistent quality standard — applies the same workmanship to seedling spacing, firebreak construction, and slash disposal regardless of supervisor proximity or time-of-day fatigue Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Ethical culture modeling — openly acknowledges a personal mistake during a crew debrief, articulating lessons learned and establishing a team norm of transparent accountability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Advocacy for safe standards — formally raises concerns about a crew practice that deviates from fire safety regulations, persisting through organizational resistance until the issue is corrected Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Adaptive tool use — improvises a workable hand tool grip modification to improve control on steep terrain when standard technique proves unsafe for the specific slope angle Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Problem-noticing — identifies an inefficient routing pattern in the crew's slash pile burning sequence and suggests a revised order to the foreperson Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Field logistics improvisation — devises an alternative water source relay system for mop-up operations when the planned tanker access route becomes impassable Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Erosion control adaptation — applies non-standard wattle or brush barrier configuration to address an unusual drainage pattern not covered by the standard erosion control specification Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Vegetation treatment design input — proposes a modified hand-thinning pattern for a complex stand structure that achieves fuel reduction goals while preserving targeted wildlife habitat features Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Training exercise design — creates a scenario-based field exercise for crew members to practice fire line construction decisions under simulated time and resource constraints Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Process innovation — develops a novel crew deployment sequence for prescribed burn ignition in complex terrain that reduces re-burn risk and is adopted as a unit-level best practice Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-discipline solution synthesis — combines knowledge of local hydrology, fuel mapping, and seasonal fire behavior to propose a multi-year prescribed burn rotation schedule that improves long-term forest health outcomes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset9 statements
Emerging
  1. Feedback acceptance — receives correction on chainsaw technique or planting depth from a foreperson and applies the adjustment on the next work iteration without defensiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. New skill attempt — volunteers to learn a new hand tool or equipment type outside current assignment to broaden field capability Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Setback recovery — returns to full productivity after a physically demanding suppression shift, applying rest and recovery strategies and maintaining engagement on subsequent days Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Certification pursuit — enrolls in a fire training course or first aid certification to expand qualifications beyond current job requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Performance pattern analysis — reviews personal productivity data from reforestation planting records across multiple seasons and sets targeted improvement goals for accuracy and daily unit output Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Challenge seeking — requests assignment to a more complex prescribed burn role or a technically demanding timber harvest unit to accelerate skill development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Constructive criticism integration — incorporates structured feedback from an annual performance review into a personal development plan with specific, time-bound action steps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Learning culture promotion — normalizes public goal-setting and mistake-sharing within the crew, reducing the stigma of asking for help and accelerating collective skill development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Career-long development modeling — pursues advanced forestry certifications across multiple seasons while mentoring newer workers in the same learning practices, demonstrating sustained commitment to professional growth Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness9 statements
Emerging
  1. Hazard attention focus — maintains deliberate situational awareness of falling objects, machinery proximity, and terrain while performing manual tasks in active logging or burning units Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional check-in — recognizes personal stress or frustration building during a difficult work day and pauses briefly to regulate before re-engaging with the crew Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Pre-task grounding — conducts a brief personal mental review of task steps, personal protective equipment requirements, and emergency exit routes before beginning fire line construction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Physical signal monitoring — tracks personal hydration, heat exposure, and exertion levels throughout a suppression shift and responds to warning signs before they impair performance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Sustained focus maintenance — sustains precise attention to chainsaw operation, cut angle, and escape route awareness across a full workday on a steep-slope timber unit Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotional regulation under pressure — maintains calm decision-making and clear communication with crew members during rapid fire spread events that require immediate tactical adjustment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Intentional transition — shifts cognitive mode deliberately between high-alert suppression activity and methodical mop-up work, avoiding errors caused by residual adrenaline or fatigue Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crew mindfulness facilitation — leads a brief pre-shift awareness exercise that focuses crew attention on the day's specific hazards, reinforcing a culture of intentional, present-moment field awareness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Stress pattern recognition — identifies escalating anxiety or tunnel vision in a crew member during a complex suppression situation and intervenes with a brief reorientation conversation before the individual makes a safety error Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude9 statements
Emerging
  1. Physical discomfort persistence — continues productive planting or brush disposal work through heat, difficult terrain, and physical fatigue for a full shift without abandoning assigned tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Uncertainty tolerance — works effectively in remote areas with limited communication and variable work conditions without requiring constant supervisor reassurance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Multi-day deployment endurance — maintains consistent work quality and crew cooperation across extended fire camp assignments lasting multiple days with limited rest facilities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Adverse weather persistence — continues prescribed burn preparation or reforestation tasks through rain, extreme heat, or smoky conditions when public land management timelines require completion Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. High-risk task courage — executes direct fire attack assignments under elevated flame and smoke conditions when tactical necessity requires it, following established safety protocols without task avoidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Repeated setback recovery — returns to full engagement after a prescribed burn escape, equipment failure, or weather-forced project delay, reorienting the crew and resuming work without loss of morale Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Sustained seasonal performance — maintains safety discipline and work quality standards across a full fire season or planting season despite cumulative fatigue and fluctuating crew composition Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Crisis steadiness modeling — demonstrates visible composure during a rapidly evolving fire entrapment scenario, executing the emergency action plan and communicating clearly while managing personal fear response Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Organizational adversity navigation — continues to advocate for crew safety improvements or resource allocations through repeated bureaucratic obstacles, maintaining persistence until a meaningful outcome is achieved Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Blister Rust Eradicator · Box Chipper · Box Cutter · Brusher · Chemical Sprayer · Chopper · Christmas Tree Farm Worker · Christmas Tree Farmer · Christmas Tree Grader · Christmas Tree Grower · Cone Picker · Conservation Coordinator
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Critical ThinkingMonitoringReading ComprehensionActive ListeningSpeakingJudgment and Decision MakingActive LearningCoordination
Knowledge domains
Public Safety and SecurityEnglish LanguageCustomer and Personal ServiceAdministration and ManagementGeographyBiology
Abilities
Problem SensitivityOral ComprehensionStatic StrengthOral ExpressionTrunk StrengthDynamic StrengthStaminaNear VisionFar VisionMultilimb Coordination
Work styles
DependabilityPerseveranceCooperationStress ToleranceIntegrityCautiousness
Technology
Data base user interface and query softwareGeographic information systemSpreadsheet softwareElectronic mail softwareMap creation softwareOffice suite softwarePresentation softwareProject management softwareOperating system softwareWord processing software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Check equipment to ensure that it is operating properly.
  2. Fight forest fires or perform prescribed burning tasks under the direction of fire suppression officers or forestry technicians.
  3. Perform fire protection or suppression duties, such as constructing fire breaks or disposing of brush.
  4. Confer with other workers to discuss issues, such as safety, cutting heights, or work needs.
CIP education codes
01.060603.050103.051103.0599

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.