Responsibilities:

• Operating multi-channel radio, WildCAD, and multi-line phones in order to maintain communications between region personnel and the general public or field and office personnel.
• Resolves problems and responds to inquiries regarding fire danger, outdoor burning regulations, burn bans, fire equipment regulations, and industrial fire precaution levels, as well as public use questions such as campground and ORV areas, etc.
• Takes calls on the radio and telephone from the public and/or multi-agency personnel reporting fires and/or other incidents.
• Maintaining log in WildCAD of all radio communications and all fire/incident communications originating or received in the Dispatch Center.
• Maintaining situational awareness and keeping the appropriate region and division personnel informed on emerging issues.
• Responsible for region employee accountability and tracking in WildCAD.
• Must be able to work independently on weekends and extended hours and report to the dispatch center within 30 minutes.

This may be filled as an in-training position. This is designated as a 12-month training plan. If you complete all elements of the training steps in a shorter amount of time, we may waive the remainder of the time required. Candidates will be considered as Wildland Fire Dispatcher 2 (WFD3 In-Training) or Wildland Fire Dispatcher 3, depending on qualifications.

Wildland Fire Dispatcher 2 (WFD3 In-Training) required qualifications
(Salary range: $3,376 – $4,497 per month):

• High School diploma or GED equivalent.
• Experience with computer programs such as Microsoft Suite.
• Experience involving public contact or communication such as radio communications, receptionist, switchboard operator, or clerical office work which includes interacting with the public.
• DNR Core Competencies:
  • Personal Accountability
  • Value Others
  • Compassionate Communication
  • Inspire Others
  • Commitment to Excellence

• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• One or more seasons as a Wildland Fire Dispatcher 2; OR other dispatch experience, experience involving public contact or communications, switchboard operation, or wildland fire suppression experience.
• Proficient computer skills such as MS Word, MS Excel, and MS Outlook with an aptitude for learning new software programs.
• Experience proofreading, correcting documents, and accurately documenting information.
• Experience independently performing complex clerical assignments related to regulations, rules, policies, and procedures.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills as demonstrated by the ability to resolve conflicts, write effectively, and communicate in a professional manner with diverse groups both internal and external customers.
• Demonstrated ability to appropriately manage time and workload.
• Ability to work after hours and on weekends.
• Ability to report to the dispatch center within 30 minutes.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing workload needs/flexibility.
• Experience providing customer service to diverse clients.
• Ability to constructively work with others to address and/or resolve problems.
• Ability to stay calm and work through emergency situations in a fast-paced stressful environment.
• Knowledge of office practices and correspondence preparation.

• The primary work environment is in a dispatch/communications center within a regional headquarters setting. The setting will have multiple communications and tasks being performed simultaneously by various employees. Dispatch is a high-pressure environment, answering multiple radio/phone calls per day under noisy conditions for extended periods of time without loss of concentration. If the region fire situation requires it, this position may be asked to oversee and assist with dispatch in the field or another location away from the region office. Office work must be done at an open workstation; this workstation is subject to background noise. Must be able to sit or stand at a workstation for 8 hours per day or longer if needed. (With breaks and meal periods). Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Occasional travel for training and/or meetings is part of this position. Agency assigned vehicle for travel.

• National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) qualified as an Initial Attack Dispatcher Trainee (IADP-T), or Expanded Dispatch Support Dispatcher Trainee (EDSD-T).
• Two seasons as a Wildland Fire Dispatcher 2.
• Wildland fire suppression experience.
• Knowledge of Washington State and DNR policies, procedures, and practices.
• Experience working in a communication and/or dispatch center.

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.

• 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.

• 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.