Salish Assistant Fire Unit Manager, Wildland Fire Management Specialist (WFMS)



Salish Assistant Fire Unit Manager, Wildland Fire Management Specialist (WFMS)

Salary

$50,088.00 - $67,380.00 Annually

Location

Skagit County - Sedro Woolley, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

2024-2-A057-02704

Department

Dept. of Natural Resources

Opening Date

02/28/2024

Closing Date

3/6/2024 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary Information

The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

Description



Salish Assistant Fire Unit Manager, Wildland Fire Management Specialist (WFMS)
Recruitment #2024-2-A057
Full-time, Permanent, Represented position
Location: Northwest Region- Sedro Woolley, WA
Flexible Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Relocation Compensation may be available and considered
Salary: $4,174.00 - $5,615.00 Monthly

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Northwest Region. Northwest Region is geographically located in the Northwest portion of Washington State and includes Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish, Island, and San Juan Counties. The area is rich with activities due to its amazing and beautiful location. Seattle and Vancouver, Canada are located within a two-hour drive, and the North Cascades and San Juan Islands are within an hour. Recreational activities in the area include camping, hiking, hunting, boating, enjoying metropolitan areas, and world-class mountain biking and skiing.

Do you enjoy the challenge of wildland firefighting? Do you see yourself leading a team of wildland firefighters that allows you the opportunity to serve local communities? The Washington State (DNR) is looking for a bright, quick-thinking individual to fill the role of the Salish Assistant Fire Unit Manager to assist with managing the Salish Wildfire Unit of the Northwest Region. This position is perfect for those who enjoy supervising fire crews, collaborating with interagency peers, and using professional judgment to determine necessary resources during high to extreme fire danger levels.

In addition to suppression work, the unit supports DNR Forest Resiliency and Community Resiliency Programs in the form of fuel reduction projects and other FireWise USA-related work helping expand NW Regions Fire Adapted Communities landscape; and may have the opportunity to participate in prescribed fire. Additionally, the position works in coordination with the other Salish Assistant Fire Unit Manager to recruit, hire, train, and develop seasonal fire crews to suppress wildland fires safely and effectively.  


Duties

Responsibilities:
This position reports to the Salish Unit Fire Unit Manager (FMO) and works under the guidance of state regulations, agency policies and procedures, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and agency strategic plans. This position provides leadership and oversight as the Salish Assistant Fire Unit Manager to one Wildland Fire Management Supervisor (Fire & Forest Health Specialist), two seasonal Engine Leaders, and 9 seasonal Firefighters.

Job duties include but are not limited to:

  • Fire Protection and Suppression Program- Protects human life and natural resources on department-protected lands while minimizing resource loss and fire costs as outlined in RCW 76.04.015,016.
  • Preparedness- Recruits and hires up to 19 seasonal firefighters annually to staff fire crews.
  • Preparedness- Develops and implements annual pre-suppression fire training for district staff.
  • Supervision- Supervises 1 Wildland Fire Management Supervisor and is responsible for the supervision of 3 Engine Leaders, as well as up to 9 Seasonal Fire Fighters in daily activities including training, pre-suppression, suppression, and fire regulation enforcement.
  • Suppression- Providing supervision and incident leadership during wildland fire suppression (Initial Attack or Extended Attack).
  • Prescribed Fire Support – Leads and supervises crew 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.
  • Community Resilience - Lead and supervise crew 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.
  • Forest Health and Fuels Treatment – Leads and supervises crew to conduct non-commercial thinning and slash abatement, project layout, and compliance in coordination with State Lands and Landowner Assistance staff.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Certified as an NWCG Single Resource Boss.
  • Certified NWCG Incident Commander Type 5 or higher;
    OR the ability to obtain during the probationary period.
  • Supervisory Experience.
  • Experience in agreement and contract negotiations.
  • Demonstrated 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 requests are followed.
  • Team effectiveness- understanding and ability to increase team effectiveness by focusing on situational awareness, communication skills, teamwork, task allocation, and decision-making within a framework of standard operating procedures.
  • Skills in Employee Empowerment.
  • DNR Core Competencies:
    • Personal Accountability
    • Value Others
    • Compassionate Communication
    • Inspire Others
    • Commitment to Excellence
Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:
  • Working Setting: Field and Office. The position’s assigned duty station is the NW Region Office- 919 N Township, Sedro-Woolley WA 98284. Work is performed in an office setting (30%) and alone in isolated unimproved natural areas within the unit (70%). Incumbent must be able to traverse uneven terrain in all weather conditions.
  • Travel Requirements: The position requires travel (50%) to the field for project work, fires, or supervision, and attend meetings or various trainings. Frequent overnight travel is required for trainings, meetings, and fire assignments.
  • A valid unrestricted driver’s license and have two years of driving experience. This position requires driving as an essential function. Finalists and/or interview candidates will be asked to provide a driving record from all states in which they have held a license during the past three years. 
  • Must pass work capacity test annually at the arduous level required by current red card qualifications.
Desired Qualifications:
  • A Bachelor's Degree or associate degree in Fire Science, Natural Resource Management, or a closely related field.
  • Task Force Leader (or higher) NWCG qualifications.
  • Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 2 (RXB2).
  • Commitment to continual learning and adaption to technology advances.
  • Skills in evaluating others’ abilities, and assessing training needs.
  • Facilitative skills to work with groups of people to solve issues.
Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position - If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your experience relates to them, please contact us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. A note to potential candidates: Studies have shown that women, trans, non-binary, Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) are less likely to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet every qualification as described in a job description. We value diversity and inclusion in our organization, and we are looking for the best person for the job. Don’t hesitate to apply! 

Supplemental Information

Application Requirements:

  • To be considered you must apply online at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above). 
  • Attach a letter of interest describing how your experience and qualifications relate to the position profile and the position required, desired, and special requirements.
  • Attach a resume describing your experience and qualifications.
  • Provide three to five professional references – you may attach a document, use the References text field in the online application, or include it with your resume.
  • Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (social security number, year of birth, etc.).
  • Complete all supplemental questions.
  • Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at info@governmentjobs.com with interview information/scheduling instructions. Please monitor the email listed in your application materials and check your junk email folder to ensure you receive those communications.
Questions?  Please contact Jason McMillen at Jason.McMillen@dnr.wa.gov / (360) 854-8098 or e-mail us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). 
At DNR we approach our work through the lens of making Washington a better place environmentally and are dedicated to serving Washington’s lands and communities through diversity, equity, and inclusion. 
Our Vision – Our actions ensure a future where Washington’s lands, waters, and communities thrive.
Our Mission – Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington’s lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Our Core Values:
  • Safety and Well-Being —Our top priority is the safety of the public and our employees.
  • Public Service —We value and respect the public we serve, and we value and respect the people of the Department of Natural Resources who step up to serve.
  • Innovation and Creative Problem-Solving — We solve our state’s most pressing challenges through innovative thinking, dedication, and bold and creative vision.
  • Leadership and Teamwork —We are committed to building leaders at all levels and building teams for success.
DNR provides excellent benefits, a few of which include:
  • 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, visit here to learn more
  • 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 that includes employer contributions toward health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, sick leave, and vacation days. Visit http://careers.wa.gov/benefits.html for more information.
Additional Information:
This recruitment may be extended and may also be used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.
 
DNR does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Veterans wishing to claim Veteran’s preference please attach a copy of your DD-214, NGB-22, or other verification of military service. Please black out your social security number prior to attaching it. We thank you and are grateful for your service!

Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Natural Resources is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply. Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.

Once you submit your online application, you can check your status by logging into your account. If you experience technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email CareersHelp@des.wa.gov.

Check us out on: DNR’s website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | WordPress

More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note:  If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the
Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.


Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS).  New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs.  For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP).  This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.


As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165. 

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

01
Please describe what interests you about the Department of Natural Resources.
02
Please describe what a work environment based on diversity, equity, inclusivity and belonging means to you.
03
Are you certified as a NWCG Single Resource Boss?
  • Yes
  • No
04
Are you a certified NWCG Incident Commander Type 5 or higher; OR have the ability to obtain during the probationary period?
  • Yes
  • No
05
Do you have supervisory experience?
  • Yes
  • No
06
Do you have experience in agreement and contract negotiations?
  • Yes
  • No
07
Do you have a valid unrestricted driver's license and at least two years of driving experience?
  • Yes
  • No
08
Do you now, or will you in the future, require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B visa status, etc.) to work legally for our agency in the United States? DNR is not an E-Verify agency.
  • Yes
  • No
09
Where did you originally hear about this job posting?
  • www.dnr.wa.gov
  • www.careers.wa.gov
  • WA WorkSource office or WorkSourceWA.com
  • Governmentjobs.com
  • Monster
  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter
  • College/university website/career fair
  • Handshake
  • Newspaper
  • Direct Email Notification
  • Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups (BRG)
  • Professional/Personal Network
  • Job Board
  • Job Fair
  • Zip Recruiter
  • Diversity Jobs
  • Facebook
  • Other (please specify below)
10
If you answered "other" to the previous question, please specify where you originally learned of this employment opportunity in the space below.

Required Question

Agency
State of Washington
Address
View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504
Phone
View Posting for Agency Contact