The Junior Forest Ranger (JFR) program presents a unique and exciting opportunity to Albertan high school students age 16 to 18.
It’s not your normal summer job!
Successful applicants will gain valuable skills and knowledge towards a career in natural resource fields through hands on work experience.
Prerequisites
All applicants must be:
- 16 to 18 years of age of as July 1
- A full-time student enrolled in grade 10, 11 or 12 at time of application
- Interested in forestry, wildfire operations, wildlife biology, environmental science or stewardship
- Involved in community, school athletics, student council or volunteer services
- In good physical condition. There is a minimum fitness standard that is part of the screening process
- Available for a seven-day overnight training program, starting in the first weeks of July
- Prepared to live and work in the outdoors for seven weeks
Although each crew has a different experience, you will typically:
- Thin trees in order to reduce the threat of wildfire
- Construct trails
- Plant trees
- Assist with research projects in the area
- Engage in wildfire management scenarios
You will also take part in several tours, presentations, and training courses related to wildfire and natural resource management. You will receive training in:
- Bear awareness
- Hand tools
- Radio operations
- Standard first aid and Level C CPR
- Wildfire orientation
When selecting rangers for the summer, JFR screening teams review each application, arrange for an interview and look for the following:
Ranger qualities
- Adaptive
- Enthusiastic
- Team-oriented
- Inquisitive
- Respectful
- Willing to take initiative
Physical fitness
- Applicants must pass a fitness test: a two-mile walk with a 25-pound backpack in under 30 minutes
- Each crew will experience physical labour, and the work can go all day for multiple days
- On the weekends, crews will be expected to participate on long day hikes, canoeing trips or other recreational activity
Compensation
First year crew member: $12.50/hour
Second year crew member: $13.50/hour