Fire lookouts are doing a great work in wildfire prevention. They watch over vast expanses of forest and wilderness to detect early signs of fires before they spread out of control.
While the job can be incredibly rewarding, you may want to understand the pay scale and benefits before deciding whether it’s the right fit for you.
In this post, we’ll take a look at what fire lookouts typically earn and what other benefits come with the role.
Average Salary for Fire Lookouts
The salary of a fire lookout in the United States can vary widely depending on a few key factors, including location, experience, and whether the lookout is working for a federal or state agency, or a private contractor.
Per Hour
On average, fire lookouts earn between $15 to $35 per hour.
Entry-Level Positions: For those just starting out or with minimal experience, hourly wages are typically closer to the lower end of the scale, around $15 per hour. Entry-level positions may also come with limited benefits, with most compensation being based on the hours worked.
Experienced Lookouts: More experienced fire lookouts, especially those in leadership roles or with specialized skills, may earn $30 to $35 per hour or more.
These positions may require additional responsibilities, such as coordinating a team of lookouts, maintaining lookout equipment, or assisting with wildfire response efforts.
Daily, Monthly, and Yearly
Daily Earnings: Fire lookouts typically earn between $120 and $280 per day, assuming an 8-hour workday at an hourly rate of $15 to $35.
Monthly Earnings: For a full-time schedule, monthly earnings range from approximately $2,400 to $5,600.
Yearly Earnings: Annual earnings vary widely based on seasonal or year-round employment but can range from $14,400 (3-month seasonal work at $15/hour) to $72,800 (year-round work at $35/hour).
Seasonal vs. Year-Round Positions
One of the most important things to consider when thinking about becoming a fire lookout is whether the position is seasonal or year-round.
Seasonal Jobs: Fire lookout jobs are typically seasonal, lasting from early summer to fall (around June through September, depending on the climate).
During this time, lookouts monitor fire activity, communicate with firefighting crews, and help prevent wildfires.
Seasonal workers may not receive year-round benefits, but they do earn wages for the months they work.
Year-Round Jobs: A few fire lookout stations, especially in areas prone to wildfires year-round, may offer full-time, year-round positions. These positions often come with additional benefits, such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans.
These positions are less common, but they offer stability for those looking for long-term employment.
Additional Benefits of Being a Fire Lookout
While the pay may not seem substantial for some, there are other perks that come with the job that make it attractive to many.
Housing: Many fire lookout positions come with free or low-cost housing. In remote areas, the lookout may live in a small cabin or tower, providing a unique and isolated living experience.
This can be a big draw for people looking for solitude and adventure.
Food: Depending on the location, some lookout stations provide food, or offer a meal stipend. This can be particularly beneficial in more remote locations where grocery shopping is not always practical.
Living in Nature: For nature lovers and those who appreciate solitude, living in a fire lookout station can be an incredibly rewarding experience.
Lookouts often find themselves surrounded by pristine forests and wildlife, offering a lifestyle that’s hard to match.
Seasonal Flexibility: For those who enjoy the outdoors and seasonal work, fire lookout jobs can offer a sense of freedom. Many lookouts work during the summer months and have the winter off to pursue other activities or work opportunities.
Other Considerations
Job Risks: While the role of a fire lookout can be peaceful and rewarding, it also comes with risks. Lookouts must be prepared for extreme weather conditions, isolation, and the potential dangers of wildfires.
Lookouts are often the first line of defense, which means they need to act quickly and efficiently in the event of a fire.
Training and Skills: Fire lookouts generally need some level of training in fire detection, communication, and emergency response.
Many positions require candidates to be in good physical condition and to have knowledge of basic firefighting techniques.
Additional certifications, such as First Aid or Wildland Firefighter training, can increase a lookout’s earning potential and job prospects.
Conclusion
Becoming a fire lookout is an excellent opportunity for individuals who want to contribute to wildfire prevention while spending time in nature.
The pay may not be as high as other jobs, however, the benefits—such as housing, food stipends, and the incredible lifestyle—can make it a unique and fulfilling experience.
If you’re looking for a seasonal adventure or a year-round job in a remote location, the role of a fire lookout can provide both a steady income and an unforgettable experience for you.
Considering becoming a fire lookout? You need to weigh the benefits, the pay, and the challenges to see if it’s the right fit for you.
The fire season may be short, but the memories and experiences last a lifetime!
