Operational Wildfire Management Technology Liaison

Science Systems & Applications • Lanham, MD

3d • $80,000 - $130,000

About The Position

Science Systems and Applications, Inc. (SSAI) is seeking an Operational Wildfire Management Technology Liaison to facilitate direct engagement with domestic fire management stakeholders and support the integration of NASA remote sensing fire tools into active fire management operations.

Requirements

• Master’s Degree (M.S.) in Earth science, geography, forestry, fire science or other related discipline and a minimum of 6 years in the field or in a related area, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience translating complex scientific data and fire science concepts into actionable, accessible information for non-scientific operational audiences.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills are required, including the ability to conduct training, outreach, and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Familiarity with fire behavior modeling, fire spread models, or geospatial data tools used in fire management contexts.
• Experience working with or in support of federal, state, or local fire management agencies (e.g., USFS, BLM, NIFC).
• U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residency required.

Nice To Haves

• Direct operational fire management experience or a background as a wildland firefighter.
• Experience applying artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, or emerging technologies to support wildfire management, decision-making, or operational workflows.
• Experience with NASA fire remote sensing products (e.g., FIRMS, VIIRS active fire data) or similar satellite-derived fire tools.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the liaison between operational fire managers and technology developers to support wildfire management.
• Promote and implement AI-enabled, remote sensing, fire behavior, and geospatial decision-support tools for operational fire management.
• Provide training, technical assistance, and user support for operational wildfire technologies.
• Coordinate the testing, evaluation, and implementation of emerging technologies in fire management workflows.
• Gather user feedback and translate operational needs into technology requirements and enhancements.
• Collaborate with interagency partners to advance technology integration and improve wildfire decision-making.

Benefits

• The actual salary offered will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, tenure, skill set, availability of qualified candidates, geographic location, certifications, and other job-related criteria deemed relevant to the position.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level