Ahtanum-Hand Crew Squad Boss, Wildland Fire Management Lead (WFML)

State of Washington•Yakima County – Yakima, WA

5d•$3,827 - $5,111•Hybrid

About The Position

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within the Southeast Region in Yakima, WA. DNR is looking for bright, quick-thinking, motivated individuals to fill the role of Ahtanum-Hand Crew Squad Boss, Wildland Fire Management Lead (WFML). This position provides leadership and supports oversight for a squad of up to 6 firefighters on a 20-person Initial Attack Handcrew. The squad boss will have the responsibility of day-to-day supervision, oversight of suppression operations, preparedness, hiring, and training for up to 6 seasonal firefighters.

Requirements

Knowledge of wildland fire suppression tactics and fire behavior recognition.
Certified as a National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) Firefighter Type 1.
Creates a positive work environment where all staff are motivated to do their best.
Encourages team unity through sharing information or expertise, working together to solve problems, and putting team success first.
Maintains an open, approachable manner and treats others fairly and respectfully.
Accustomed to tailoring communication to the needs and preferences of others.
Preserves others' self-confidence and dignity and shows regard for their opinions.
Safely performs work at all times. Avoids shortcuts that increase health and safety risks to self or others.
Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.
Perform assigned duties in a manner consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and public records retention, and ensure requests are followed.
Must pass an annual work capacity test at the arduous level as required by NWCG.
A current, valid driver’s license and two years of driving experience.
DNR requires state drivers to possess a license that is not suspended, revoked, or restricted (for example, Occupational/Restricted Driver Licenses or requiring ignition interlock devices).
This position requires driving as an essential function.

Nice To Haves

A bachelor's or associate's degree in Fire Science, Natural Resource, or related field; or some higher education that required coursework in Fire Sciences and/or Silviculture.
Certified at the NWCG qualification level of Single Resource Boss-Crew Boss or higher.
Certified as an NWCG Incident Commander Type 4 or higher.
Knowledge of employment rules and regulations as they apply to permanent, seasonal career and seasonal DNR employees.
Skills in evaluating others’ abilities and assessing training needs.
Experience supervising or leading wildland firefighting personnel.
Experience in forest fire protection regulatory programs.

Responsibilities

Providing supervision and oversight for resources during fire suppression (Initial Attack or Extended Attack)
Prepares for and participates in interagency training classes and hands-on courses of wildland firefighting tactics, fire behavior recognition, safe chainsaw operation, use of tools, pumps and water delivery systems, working around helicopters, and assessments of hazards. Assists crew with guidance on various position task books, training records and evaluations.
Leads and supervises Squad to conduct site fuels and fire effects data collection, unit preparation, assist with burn plan writing, community outreach, and Rx burn implementation support to include firing, holding, burn boss, etc.
Lead and supervise Squad to conduct home ignition zone assessments as part of Wildfire Ready Neighbors or independent requests from landowners and/or communities. In addition to Home Ignition Zone assessments crew members may participate in community education days, plan and participate in community outreach and prevention events and participate with local cooperators on community outreach projects.
Leads and supervises squad to conduct non-commercial thinning and slash abatement, project layout, and compliance in coordination with State Lands and Landowner Assistance staff. Supports forest health project layout, tree marking, road brushing, and GPS data collection surveys. Assists with timber sales, layout, marking, forest cruising, and road maintenance.

Benefits

Commitment to organizational health and wellness
Work/life balance
DNR Employee Resource Groups (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, Women’s Employee Resource Group, Veterans Employee Resource Group, etc.)
Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups
Leadership that empowers and supports employees
Professional development opportunities
Educational and career development aid
Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility
Opportunities to participate in wildland fire suppression assignments
A comprehensive benefits package includes employer contributions toward health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, sick leave, and vacation days.