This is NOT a timed exam. If you request a Reasonable Accommodation your account will be LOCKED and you will not be able to proceed with the exam until the request is processed. 

This classification is eligible for the following pay:

$6,932 - $8,997 Base Salary (paid every month)

$83,184 – $107,964 Annual Compensation

In addition to the above pay items, employees are eligible for medical benefits (health, dental, vision) and may be eligible for other pay differentials.

The information below will help you determine which classification(s) is(are) appropriate for you. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications as stated on this bulletin to compete in this examination.

Open and Open, Non-Promotional Examination(s):

• FORESTER I (NONSUPERVISORY) - Open

*Candidates interested in a Forester I (1054) position with CAL FIRE MUST successfully take and pass this examination to be placed on the eligibility list. Successful candidates are encouraged to apply for open positions. Visit our Join CAL FIRE webpage for more information.

For all Classifications, once you have participated in any of the following examinations, you may not recompete for 6 months:

Exam Code(s):

4527

For FORESTER I (NONSUPERVISORY), once you have participated in any of the following examinations, you may not recompete for 6 months:

Exam Code(s):

• EX-04527

Submit an Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) to apply for this examination.

Electronic applications can be submitted through your account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov.

*Applications for this examination will ONLY be accepted via electronic submission through CalCareers. 

APPLICATIONS SENT VIA EMAIL, MAIL, OR DELIVERED IN-PERSON WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

If you require assistance or alternative testing arrangements due to a disability, indicate on your application that you need reasonable accommodation. You will be contacted by a representative of the testing department to make the necessary arrangements. If you have not been contacted by the time you receive notification of testing, please contact the testing department listed in the Contact section of this bulletin.

If you are unable to submit your application or complete the test due to a disability, please contact the testing department listed in the Contact section of this bulletin.

All applicants must meet the education and/or experience requirements as stated on this exam bulletin to be accepted to the examination.

Breadth of experience through a variety of job assignments is a factor in planned manager development in the Department of Forestry and Fire Protection. Although Foresters develop highly specialized assignments at higher levels, rotation in assignment is anticipated at all levels within the series.

Either I

Possession of a valid license as a Registered Professional Forester issued by the California State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection or possession of an authorized letter from the California State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection, Professional Foresters Registration, to compete in the Registered Professional Forester exam. (Applicants with an authorization letter from the California State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection, Professional Foresters Registration, will be admitted to the examination, but they must secure the license before they will be considered eligible for appointment.)

OR II

Experience: Two years of experience performing the duties of a Forestry Assistant II in the California state service.

AND

License Requirement: Possession of a valid license as a Registered Professional Forester issued by the California State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection (applicants who do not possess the required license will be admitted to the examination, but they must secure the license before they will be considered eligible for appointment).

OR III

Experience: One year of experience performing the duties of a Forestry Assistant II in the California state service and six months of forestry work requiring professional skill. (Graduation from college with specialization in forestry, range management, or a closely related natural resource field may be substituted for the six months of forestry work.)

AND

License Requirement: Possession of a valid license as a Registered Professional Forester issued by the California State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection (applicants who do not possess the required license will be admitted to the examination, but they must secure the license before they will be considered eligible for appointment).

Or IV

Experience: Either 

1. Three years of experience in the California state service performing forestry work requiring professional skill, fire prevention, or supervising fire suppression work in a class comparable in level to a Forestry Assistant II.

OR

2. Two years of experience in forestry work requiring professional skill involving one of the following: management of a forest area; management of forest resources; appraising forest resources; forest engineering; regulating forest practices; controlling forest pests; reforestation or tree nursery production; urban forestry; or range and watershed management duties. (Graduate work in forestry may be substituted for up to one year of the required experience on a year-for-year basis.)

AND 

Education: Equivalent to graduation from college with specialization in forestry, range management, or a closely related natural resource field. (Additional qualifying experience may be substituted for up to two years of the required education on a year-for-year basis.)

AND

License Requirement: Possession of a valid license as a Registered Professional Forester issued by the California State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection (applicants who do not possess the required license will be admitted to the examination, but they must secure the license before they will be considered eligible for appointment).

We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, or Edge for optimal performance when accessing the application and the examination. A STABLE INTERNET CONNECTION IS ESSENTIAL AND HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. 

This examination consists of the following component(s):

A final score of 70% must be attained to be placed on the eligible list.

Forester I Exam Preview

Using the rating scale(s) provided in the exam, rate your experience performing the specific job-related tasks listed below. Please indicate how these statements apply to you by referring to your WORK EXPERIENCE (either paid or volunteer). 

This is NOT a timed examination.

Interested applicants must click "Apply Now" in the top right corner of this bulletin and follow the prompts provided by the CalCareers system to apply for and take this exam. Typically, candidates' results will populate in their CalCareers profile within 24-hours of completing the exam.

TASK STATEMENTS:

1). Evaluate project areas throughout project implementation (e.g., timber harvesting, landowner assistance, fuels reduction) utilizing professional experience, judgment, and field evaluation to protect the environment.

2). Consult with other regulatory agencies and/or other natural resource professionals on projects to ensure environmental protection and compliance in accordance with federal and state laws.

3). Prepare and/or review environmental documents (e.g., California Environmental Quality Act documents, timber harvest documents).

4). Perform arduous field work in remote locations for various assignments (e.g., timber sale preparation, inventory of forest resources).

5). Communicate and/or respond to public concerns in a professional manner.

6). Develop mitigation measures to provide resource protection (e.g., water, soils, wildlife habitat) utilizing professional experience and knowledge.

7). Provide professional advice and/or technical information for the development and implementation of natural resource management projects.

8). Identify and protect environmentally sensitive areas (e.g., habitats, cultural sites).

9). Develop and maintain professional relationships with agencies and other stakeholders (e.g., Federal, State, local, non-profit, special interest) to promote natural resource management.

10). Respond to recommendations, facts, and opinions submitted by public and private entities regarding the adequacy of environmental protection.

11). Oversee other staff utilizing communication to accomplish daily tasks in an efficient and safe manner.

12). Conduct and/or coordinate surveys or activities that aid in the detection and identification of forest pests to protect and improve forest health.

13). Participate in reforestation activities.

 


**PLEASE NOTE**

Candidates that choose to log out of the examination and log back in at a later time MUST re-enter the exam through their CalCareers profile:
          > After logging in, navigate to Exam / Assessment Applications
          > Find the "Active" tab and click on the proper examination code
          > CalCareers should redirect back to the Assess.ai system

In addition to evaluating the applicant's relative knowledge, skill and ability as demonstrated by quality and breadth of education/experience, emphasis in each test component will be on measuring competitively, relative to job demands, each applicant's:

Knowledge of:

1. The California Foresters Licensing Law to ensure Registered Professional Foresters are functioning in a manner that meets the standards of professional forestry practices.
2. Natural resource management principles and practices to guide the application of Department programs and responsibilities.
3. Forestry, range, wildlife, fisheries, ecosystem processes, management principles and practices to assess potential impacts and manage ecosystems effectively.
4. Natural sciences (e.g., wildlife, biology, soil, climatic conditions) to ensure appropriate environmental analysis and project implementation.
5. Appropriate forest and range inventories (e.g., wildlife resources, watershed classification, species) to collect and analyze information.
6. Forest mensuration (e.g., volume, growth, development) to collect and analyze information.
7. Land surveying (e.g., establishing unit boundaries, county assessor parcel data, use of bearings and distances, public land survey system) to locate property features.
8. Mapping methods and practices (e.g., drafting techniques, Global Positioning System, topographical map interpretation) to delineate and interpret geographical information.
9. Timber harvest methods and practices (e.g., tractor logging, cable logging) to ensure equipment and practices are utilized to protect all forest resources.
10. Silvicultural methods and their application to ensure that timber harvesting plans are approved and implemented consistent with professional standards and California Forest Practice Rules.
11. Reforestation practices, principles, standards, and survey techniques to ensure adequate regeneration of forest lands.
12. The identification and protection process for cultural resources (e.g., historic, pre-historic) to ensure their preservation.
13. Environmental effects from land management, incident related activities (e.g., vegetation treatment methods, range management), and mitigation measures necessary to protect forest resources and health and safety of personnel and the public.
14. Watershed management and erosion control methods to protect natural resources.
15. Forest road engineering (e.g., road location, construction and design, watercourse crossing design) for the development and review of a transportation and harvesting system to ensure compliance with public safety standards and environmental regulations.
16. Photogrammetry and remote sensing imagery (e.g., aerial photos, satellite, Light Detection and Ranging [LiDAR]) to gather information on various resources (e.g., vegetation characteristics, wildlife habitats, structures, water resources) for analysis and resource planning.
17. Forest measurements tools (e.g., diameter tape, Biltmore stick, clinometer) used for field measurements of trees and slope of the ground for accurate recording of data.
18. Federal, State, and local laws (e.g., Public Resource Code, California Code of Regulations, Forest Practice Act, California Environmental Quality Act), and Department policies and procedures to ensure compliance and enforcement for public safety and environmental protection.
19. Mathematics (e.g., algebra, geometry, trigonometry) and statistics to complete various Department projects (e.g., research, growth and yield analysis, market analysis).
20. English grammar (e.g., sentences, phrases, words) for accurate report writing.
21. First aid and outdoor skills (e.g., map reading, navigation, hiking) to maintain a safe working environment and to provide for public and employee safety.
22. The California Environmental Quality Act to identify the significant environmental impacts of actions.
23. Wildlife management and wildlife habitats to protect fisheries, terrestrial fauna, and plants at a level commensurate with a professional forester’s scope of license and expertise.

Skill to:

1. Operate computers and software programs effectively (e.g., email, spreadsheets, presentations) to provide accurate reports and information exchange with Department employees and other public and/or private entities.
2. Prepare clear and concise reports (e.g., media, government, public/private sector) to communicate effectively.
3. Work effectively in a team to complete tasks, problem solve, make decisions, and plan events and/or incidents.
4. Operate forestry and firefighting tools (e.g., compass, Global Positioning System, clinometer, prism, increment borer, maps) to conduct surveys, inventories, measurements, observations, and other field work in a safe and effective manner.
5. Assess potential environmental impacts to comply with State law.
6. Apply Resource Management principles and practices to ensure efficient and effective completion of assignments.
7. Identify and/or evaluate vegetation conditions to adequately protect natural resources.
8. Analyze information and data from various sources for research, decision making, and completion of assignments.
9. Interpret various sources of information (e.g., maps, reference manuals, reports, correspondence) for successful job performance.
10. Tactfully and diplomatically arbitrate conflicts between opposing viewpoints to accomplish program goals.
11. Develop and/or deliver effective verbal and written presentations for information exchange and education of employees, management, and others.

Ability to:

1. Identify environmental impacts to comply with laws and regulations.
2. Mitigate impacts within a professional forester’s scope of license and expertise.
3. Conduct various forest measurements (e.g., area, slope, density, canopy closure) using forestry tools to achieve management objectives.
4. Apply forestry principles and practices (e.g., mensuration, silviculture, engineering) to achieve management objectives.
5. Prepare accurate and concise reports and correspondence for effective job performance.
6. Identify and/or evaluate vegetation conditions to determine where and when to apply appropriate management practices.
7. Interact effectively with a variety of personalities and situations without discrimination to comply with laws and regulations.
8. Perform office activities (e.g., photocopy, file, scan) necessary for office management and program or project administration.
9. Tactfully and diplomatically arbitrate conflicts between opposing viewpoints to provide a productive and safe work environment.
10. Develop and/or deliver presentations effectively in English for informational, educational, and Departmental needs.
11. Read, write, and speak English to effectively exchange information and accomplish daily tasks.
12. Analyze and/or apply information and technical data to make sound decisions.
13. Work effectively with others (e.g., co-workers, fire protection agencies, the public, landowners, governmental agencies, business community) to ensure successful job performance.
14. Operate mechanical, electronic, and/or other equipment (e.g., computers, vehicles, cell phone) to meet the Department’s mission.
15. Work effectively in a team to complete tasks, problem solve, make decisions, and plan events and/or incidents.
16. Determine and establish priorities for the completion of work assignments.
17. Work independently, make decisions, and take appropriate action with little or no direction in emergency and non-emergency situations for successful job performance.
18. Perform arduous and/or physically demanding work (e.g., bending, climbing, lifting) in all weather conditions and terrain to meet the demands of the Department.
19. Exhibit ethical behavior, display appropriate conduct, and maintain a high level of professionalism in accordance with Department policies and procedures.
20. Maintain duty fitness standards and Respiratory Protection Program (RPP) requirements in accordance with Department policies and procedures.
21. Travel long distances for extended periods of time to accomplish the responsibilities of the Department.
22. Read and interpret information (e.g., reference manuals, training materials, issuance, laws, regulations, reports, maps, data, correspondence) to acquire knowledge and effectively perform required job duties.
23. Maintain registration as a professional forester as required by the Department’s policies and procedures.
24. Function in stressful situations or emergencies to accomplish the responsibilities of the Department.
25. Work long and arduous hours to accomplish the responsibilities of the Department.
26. Safely operate vehicles in adverse operating conditions to accomplish daily activities.
27. Adjust to changing work environments to accomplish daily tasks.
28. Listen effectively for successful job performance.
29. Reprioritize urgent assignments with short notice when new assignments are given for successful job performance.
30. Maintain a valid driver’s license to enable the legal operation of Department-owned equipment.
31. Effectively promote equal employment opportunity and maintain a work environment which is free of discrimination and harassment.
32. Explain complicated information in simple and understandable language for successful job performance.
33. Maintain records (e.g., digital, hard copy) for successful job performance.
34. Operate a variety of electronic equipment (e.g., personal computer, cameras, audio systems, computer software) for successful job performance.
35. Effectively develop, evaluate, and communicate performance standards and expectations to ensure staff accomplish the responsibilities of the Department.
36. Effectively plan and implement programs, projects, and emergency operations for successful job performance.
37. Identify the need to consult with experts outside your area of expertise to accomplish the responsibilities of the Department.
38. Develop and/or implement creative solutions to accomplish program objectives.
39. To analyze information and data from various sources for research, decision making, and completion of assignments.
40. Perform mathematics (e.g., algebra, geometry, trigonometry) and statistics, including research findings and associated budgets, to complete projects.
41. Delegate and coordinate the work of others to effectively meet project objectives.
42. Utilize situational leadership in the supervision of the work of others to ensure efficient, safe, and effective completion of assignments.
43. Interpret and/or explain codes, rules, and Department policies and procedures for successful job performance.
44. Successfully complete required training as per Department’s policies and procedures.

The previous eligibility list for Forester I has been ABOLISHED. Candidates who wish to obtain list eligibility MUST apply for, take, and pass this examination. 

A Departmental Open eligible list for the FORESTER I (NONSUPERVISORY) Classification will be established for:

• Department of Forestry & Fire Protection

The names of successful competitors will be merged onto the eligible list(s) in order of final score regardless of test date. Eligibility expires 12 months after it is established. Applicants must then retake the examination to reestablish eligibility.

Veterans' Preference will be granted for this examination. Veterans' Preference is an assistance program for veterans, veteran widows and widowers, and spouses of 100% disabled veterans who seek employment with the state. Veterans' Preference is also extended to currently serving military members nearing their retirement or separation date.

You are not eligible for Veteran's Preference if you are:

• A veteran who has been dishonorably discharged or released.
• A veteran, widow or widower of a veteran, or spouse of a 100 percent disabled veteran who currently has permanent civil service status. (Permanent civil service status is the status of an employee who is lawfully retained in his/her position after completion of the applicable probationary period. This does not include limited term).

Veterans' Preference is codified in Government Code Sections 18973 – 18979.

Veteran status is verified by the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR). Directions to apply for Veterans' Preference are on the Veterans' Preference Application (Std. Form 1093), which is available at www.CalCareers.ca.gov, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Career Credits are not granted for examination(s) administered on an Open basis or a Promotional basis.

• Department of Forestry & Fire Protection

CAL FIRE Examination Unit
710 Riverpoint Ct.
West Sacramento, CA 95605
Phone: (916) 894-9580
CALFIREexams@fire.ca.gov

CAL FIRE Reasonable Accommodation Coordinator
710 Riverpoint Ct.
West Sacramento, CA 95605
Phone: (916) 767-8359
ReasonableAccommodations@fire.ca.gov

California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice). TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.

Examination and/or Employment Application (STD 678) forms are available at the California Department of Human Resources, local offices of the Employment Development Department, and through your CalCareer Account (www.CalCareers.ca.gov).

If you meet the requirements stated on this examination bulletin, you may take this examination, which is competitive. Possession of the entrance requirements does not assure a place on the eligible list. Your performance in the examination described in this bulletin will be rated against a predetermined job-related rating, and all applicants who pass will be ranked according to their scores.

Department of Forestry & Fire Protection reserves the right to revise the examination plan to better meet the needs of the service, if the circumstances under which this examination was planned change. Such revision will be in accordance with civil service laws and rules and all applicants will be notified.

General Qualifications: Applicants must possess essential personal qualifications including integrity, initiative, dependability, good judgment, the ability to work cooperatively with others, and a state of health consistent with the ability to perform the assigned duties of the class. A medical examination may be required. In open examinations, investigation may be made of employment records and personal history and fingerprinting may be required.

Eligible Lists: Eligible lists established by competitive examination, regardless of date, must be used in the following order: 1) sub-divisional promotional, 2) departmental promotional, 3) multi-departmental promotional, 4) service-wide promotional, 5) departmental open, 6) open. When there are two lists of the same kind, the older must be used first. Eligible lists will expire in one to four years unless otherwise stated on the bulletin.

High School Equivalence: Equivalence to completion of the 12th grade may be demonstrated in any one of the following ways: 1) passing the General Education Development (GED) Test; 2) completion of 12 semester units of college-level work; 3) certification from the State Department of Education, a local school board, or high school authorities that the competitor is considered to have education equivalent to graduation from high school; or 4) for clerical and accounting classes, substitution of business college work in place of high school on a year-for-year basis.

Accepted applicants must provide proof of identification at each in-person test session. Acceptable identification consists of a photo identification card or two forms of signed identification.