Responsibilities:
[Fire Meteorology/Climate] Gain knowledge in operational fire weather forecasting

• Produce fire weather briefings and outlooks used to pre-position resources and enhance safety for firefighters and the public
• Produce aviation weather forecasts for pilots operating on wildfire incidents
• Participate in daily coordination calls with National Weather Service and Northwest Coordination Center
• Understand how the DNR Remote Automated Weather Station (RAWS) network functions and identify opportunities for improvement
• Participate in smoke forecasting and public messaging during wildfire events

• Develop understanding of National Fire Danger Rating System (NFDRS) and how it functions in relation to changing meteorological variables
• Apply fuel moisture and other fuel indices to determine Industrial Fire Protection Levels
• Assist coordination with local, state, and federal partners to determine burn restrictions/bans
• Analyze fuel/weather data to determine trends in fire danger

• Collaborate with DNR subject matter experts to identify research and project topics
• Conduct literature review related to area of study and build relationships across DNR Fire
• Identify data collection methodology (statistical data, survey data, field data, etc.)
• Select methodology for data analysis (quantitative, qualitative, mixed method, etc.) and work with supervisor to assemble the tools necessary to complete the analysis
• Work with DNR subject matter experts to draw conclusions from the analysis and present results
  

• Collaborate with supervisor to determine useful hands-on wildfire-related opportunities
  Examples:
  Prescribed fire observation, S-130/190+ NWCG training, DNR region headquarters and fire unit visits, DNR aviation visit, forestry and forest health immersion activities, fire incident command post visit, post-burn landslide survey
• Provide brief report on lessons learned and feedback on the usefulness/relevance of each site visit, field survey, and formal training
  

Required Qualifications:

• A full-time student (12+ credits/quarter) majoring in Meteorology/Atmospheric Science or a closely related field and be returning to school in a following quarter/semester
• Strong attention to detail and scientific writing skills, proficiency using mobile and desktop devices and basic computer applications, experience presenting technical information to diverse audiences
• DNR Core Competencies:
  • Personal Accountability
  • Value Others
  • Compassionate Communication
  • Inspire Others
  • Commitment to Excellence
• Contributes to a work environment that embraces diversity and brings together the strengths and perspectives of diverse groups.

• Working Setting: 80% Office, 20% field which includes providing and attending trainings and meetings offsite as well as visits to burns and active wildfire incidents.  When in the field, incumbent must work in uneven, unstable footing, often in mountainous terrain, while working alone.
• Work schedule is typically Monday-Friday 0800-1630 and may be approved by the appointing authority for flex time and or telework.

• Junior/Senior undergrad student or graduate student
• Possess knowledge (demonstrated by coursework or experience) of an applicable analysis toolkit in one or more of the following:
  • Scientific programming/scripting (Python, R, etc.)
    GIS (ArcGIS software, ArcGIS Online, basic cartography)
  • Forestry or Wildfire software (FireFamilyPlus, WindNinja, Forest Vegetation Simulator)
  • Numerical Weather Model interpretation (Python/WRF, GFS/ECMWF etc.)  
  • Data visualization/analysis software (Excel, Tableau, Power BI, etc.)
• Prior participation in scientific research or analysis projects (assisted professors research, undergraduate capstone, significant course project, etc.)

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.).
• Attach a copy of your college degree certificate or an unofficial copy of your transcripts. If you have questions regarding attaching this document please contact dnrrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. If you do not attach your college degree certificate or an unofficial copy of your transcript your application will not move forward in the application process.
• 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.