Smokebusters Crew Supervisor 2026-02113

State of Wyoming•Newcastle, WY

10d•Onsite

About The Position

Become an integral part of the nearly 50-year-old Wyoming Smokebusters wildland fire handcrew and Forestry Conservation Program (FCP), within the Office of State Lands and Investments, Wyoming State Forestry Division. This role is co-located with the Wyoming Department of Corrections at the Wyoming Honor Conservation Camp. As a Smokebuster Crew Supervisor, you will supervise, lead, train, and oversee pre-release, minimum security inmate crews on wildland fires and various forestry and conservation projects. Your duties will include: ensuring safety, accountability, transportation, delegating tasks, monitoring performance, and evaluating inmate crewmembers during wildland fire suppression and daily work activities. Projects will include fuels reduction, timber stand improvements, community service, and disaster relief or prevention. Additionally, you will instruct inmate crewmembers in the classroom to National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) standards and train them in the use of chainsaws, hand and power tools, and fire suppression techniques. Newcastle is at 4,334 feet above sea level with pleasant summer temperatures around 84°F and winter highs around 35°F. The county seat of Weston County, Newcastle offers scenic drives, abundant wildlife, and outdoor activities. Located at the intersection of U.S. Route 16 and U.S. Route 85, Newcastle is close to the Black Hills, Mount Rushmore, and Devils Tower. The area provides year-round opportunities for fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, and winter sports.

Requirements

Ability to motivate and work cohesively with inmates and the team
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Effective in instructing crewmembers in various situations
Basic knowledge of fire suppression, corrections, supervision, forest management, and business management practices
Proficient in equipment operation and maintenance
Ability to maintain industrial tools and equipment
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license
Must possess and maintain national certification in accordance with NWCG standards, PMS 310-1, within one (1) year of the date of hire
Must complete WDOC Pre-Service Academy Training within one (1) year of the date of hire
Must complete annual In-Service Training

Nice To Haves

Experience or training in Wildland Fire Suppression (NWCG Red Card)
Experience or training in Corrections Supervision
Experience or training in Logging/Forestry

Responsibilities

Manage and supervise a crew of up to 10 pre-release, minimum security inmates on wildland fires, and forestry and community projects.
Ensure accountability and security of your inmate crew, adhering to policies and procedures.
Maintain production, efficiency, and workflow of the crew.
Serve as a working supervisor, instructing, coaching, and working alongside the crew.
Hold your assigned inmate crewmembers accountable to policies, procedures, and practices, utilizing the progressive discipline model.
Perform physically demanding tasks and maintain NWCG 310-1 physical fitness certification.
Maintain documentation on inmates, records on work accomplishments, vehicle use, timesheets, and crewmember evaluations.
Operate and maintain forestry equipment and vehicles, including chainsaws, wood splitters, and heavy equipment.
Instruct courses on wildland firefighting, safety, and equipment operation.
Perform as a Squad Boss (FFT1) and Intermediate Faller (FAL2) on the Wyoming Smokebusters Type 2 Wildland Fire Handcrew.
Operate larger capacity trucks, such as Type 6 wildland fire engines.