Fuels Crew Positions; Temporary, Ainsworth, NE

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Employment Website Fuels Crew Positions (Temporary, Ainsworth, NE)

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Working Title:

Fuels Crew Positions (Temporary, Ainsworth, NE)

Requisition Number: S_260130

Posting Open Date: 02/20/2026

Application Review Date: 12/31/2026

Open until Filled:
Yes

The mission of the Nebraska Forest Service is to enrich the lives of all Nebraskans by protecting, restoring, and utilizing Nebraska’s tree and forest resources. We offer technical and financial support to clients across Nebraska, with a focus on rural forestry, community forestry, forest fuels reduction, forest health, forest products utilization, and fire protection.

Nebraska Forest Service is seeking to hire a variety of fuel crew positions. This position is based out of Ainsworth, NE.

• Serve as a crew member on a fuels management module supporting hazardous fuels reduction and prescribed fire operations.
• Perform field assignments such as ignition and holding operations during prescribed fires; mop‑up and patrol of treated areas; hand thinning, piling and pile burning; and mechanical fuels disposal (e.g., chipping and saw work) under supervision.
• Operate hand tools, power tools, and specialized equipment such as chainsaws, drip torches, pumps, and portable tanks under the direction of a crew or project leader.
• Assist in fuel sampling, weather observations, and fire behavior monitoring in support prescribed fire projects.
• Participate in safety briefings, tailgate sessions, and after‑action reviews to promote safe and effective operations.
• Perform equipment and tool maintenance to ensure readiness and accountability of assigned gear.
• Complete daily work logs, time reports, and treatment accomplishment records as directed.
• Participate in wildland fire suppression operations when assigned, performing firefighter duties consistent with training and qualifications.
• May assist other resource programs when fuels projects are not active.

• Serve as a secondary first‑line leader responsible for providing technical support, tactical direction, and mentorship to the Fuels Mitigation Crew, under the direct supervision of the Fuels Crew Boss.
• Lead and support field execution of hazardous fuels reduction projects, including mechanical treatments, hand thinning, and prescribed fire operations.
• Ensure crew members adhere to all safety protocols and project objectives as directed by the Crew Boss.

• Serve as the first‑line supervisor for the Nebraska Forest Service Fuels Mitigation Crew, providing leadership, direction, and technical expertise.
• Plan, organize, and oversee the field execution of hazardous fuels reduction projects, including mechanical treatments, hand thinning, and complex prescribed fire operations.
• Ensure fuels mitigation activities meet agency, grant, and resource management objectives while maintaining compliance with NFS and University of Nebraska‑Lincoln (UNL) safety policies, procedures, and operational standards.

Applications will be continuously reviewed until all positions are filled.

At the University of Nebraska‑Lincoln, we’re proud to be consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer, known for our welcoming and supportive work environment, commitment to professional growth, and outstanding benefits. UNL isn’t just a workplace; it’s a place to build your career and make a real impact in Nebraska.

Temporary employees may be appointed for a period of up to two years. Those appointed for more than six months are eligible for benefits from the beginning of the appointment, provided the position is half‑time (.50 FTE) or greater. Those appointed for six months or less are not eligible for benefits.

• Paid time off including vacation and sick leave
• Comprehensive insurance options including health, dental, vision, and life insurance