Wildfire Intelligence Analyst
Projected 2026-2028Combine satellite imagery, weather models, IoT sensor data, and AI predictions to forecast wildfire risk, guide prevention efforts, and coordinate real-time response.
Supporting Evidence
This career doesn't fully exist yet (confidence: 90%). Based on our research, we believe this role will emerge as the underlying trends mature. Salary, growth, and other details are estimates that may change as the field develops. Here are a few of the articles and reports that informed our projection:
Salary Range
The highest-paid specialization or seniority level for wildfire intelligence analysts.
About 1 in 17 reaches this level
Anchored to Geoscientist (BLS SOC 19-2042: median $99K, 90th pct $179K) and GIS/risk-analysis roles. Apex is a Director of Wildfire Risk Intelligence at a utility, insurer, or state agency, ~$140K total comp — below the geoscientist 90th percentile, reflecting an analytics-director ceiling rather than field science. Roughly 6% reach director level as wildfire seasons intensify (speculative/emerging field, no BLS code).
Salary estimates are projections based on comparable emerging roles and industry forecasts. Actual compensation will depend on how this field develops.
How to Become One
This career is expected to require a bachelor's degree.
AI Risk Assessment
Wildfire intelligence analysis combines remote sensing interpretation, meteorological modeling, terrain analysis, and operational decision-making under time pressure. AI models are rapidly improving at fire spread prediction and risk mapping, which will automate the data-processing layer of this work. However, integrating multiple uncertain data streams, communicating actionable intelligence to incident commanders, and making judgment calls about evacuation recommendations under ambiguity require experienced human analysts. The escalating wildfire crisis ensures sustained demand even as AI handles more routine monitoring. (Projected)
Ratings reflect a 10-year outlook based on 2025-2026 research, weighted toward entry-level impact. Individual outcomes will vary.
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