Wildland Firefighter 3 - Fire Operations Specialist

$53,581 - $53,581/Yr

State of Montana - Kalispell, MT

Full-time - Mid Level

Kalispell, MT

Administration of Economic Programs

About the position

The Wildland Firefighter 3 - Fire Operations Specialist position at the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation is responsible for implementing and coordinating fire prevention, community preparedness, and suppression programs within the Kalispell Unit. This mid-level management role involves supervising wildland fire personnel and resources, ensuring readiness for fire incidents, and fostering relationships with community partners and other fire suppression organizations.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and perform fire program operations, planning, training, interagency coordination, preparedness, and prevention services within the Kalispell Unit.
• Ensure Unit personnel and equipment are ready for fire potential throughout the year by analyzing daily fire indices and modifying work schedules as needed.
• Serve as Unit Duty Officer, responsible for decision-making regarding the implementation of the Unit's fire program during scheduled shifts.
• Provide professional leadership and expertise for the Unit's fire management program, implementing existing operating plans and providing advice to cooperating agencies.
• Assist in training programs for Unit and Local Government staff, preparing lesson plans and conducting training in fire suppression and prevention.
• Perform fire management duties based on agency needs, determining tactics and strategies for wildland fire suppression efforts.
• Direct daily activities of fire crews during suppression activities, conducting briefings and analyzing fire conditions.
• Assist in recruitment and selection activities for seasonal fire staff, developing selection criteria and participating in interviews.
• Develop and implement the Unit Fire Prevention Plan, addressing specific fire problems and community preparedness education.
• Perform skilled and semi-skilled facilities maintenance tasks, including plumbing and mechanical work.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in fireline leadership and related fire program experience.
• Ability to attain Incident Commander Type 4 and Strike Team/Task Force Leader certification upon hire.
• Effective communication skills, both orally and in writing.
• Knowledge of Wildland Firefighting principles and practices, emergency management, and natural resources.
• Knowledge of State and Federal fire protection laws and wildfire protection techniques.
• Skill in the use and operation of tools, equipment, and vehicles used in wildland fire control.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
• Leadership experience in fire management or related fields.

Benefits

• Paid holidays
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Loan forgiveness
• Retirement plan