$41,724.00 – $55,584.00 Annually<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Whatcom County \u2013 Bellingham, WA<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Full Time – Permanent<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
2025-10-A031-07451<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Dept. of Natural Resources<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
10\/21\/2025<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
11\/30\/2025 11:59 PM Pacific<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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- Description<\/a><\/li>\n
- Benefits<\/a><\/li>\n
- Questions<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
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Description<\/h2>\n<\/dt>\n
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\nKulshan Handcrew Squad Boss, Wildland Fire Management Lead (WFML)<\/strong>
Recruitment #2025-10-A031
Full-time, Permanent, Represented position (WPEA)
Location: Northwest Region- Bellingham, WA
<\/strong><\/div>\nWork Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered<\/strong>
Relocation Compensation may be available and considered
Salary: $3,477.00 – $4,632.00 Monthly<\/strong>
Recruitment extended! Review of applications is ongoing.\u00a0<\/strong>We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 10\/28\/25. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.
Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?<\/strong>
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Northwest region as a\u00a0Squad Boss on our Kulshan Fire Handcrew Module<\/strong>. This position serves as a Wildland Fire Management Lead (Squad Boss) for the agency, providing support for the Wildland Fire Protection Strategy, the Forest Health Strategic Plan for EWA, and the Forest Action Plan for WWA. This position helps meet wildland fire suppression needs and associated activities supporting suppression efforts during the active fire season. Additionally, this position plays a key role in meeting the state\u2019s forest health deliverables in support of the 20-year Forest Health Strategy.<\/dd>\n- \n
Duties<\/h2>\n<\/dt>\n
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Responsibilities:<\/strong><\/p>\n
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- Prescribed Fire Support \u2013 Leads crew members 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.\u00a0<\/li>\n
- Community Resilience – Leads 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.<\/li>\n
- Forest Health Treatment \u2013 Leads crew to conduct non-commercial thinning and slash abatement, project layout, and compliance in coordination with State Lands and Landowner Assistance staff. Supports forest health project layout, tree marking, road brushing, and GPS data collection surveys. Assists with timber sales, layout, marking, forest cruising, and road maintenance.<\/li>\n
- Protects human life, natural resources, and property on Department-protected lands from wildland and urban interface fires to minimize resource loss and fire costs while ensuring firefighter and public safety. Firefighter safety is the top priority.<\/li>\n
- Provide direct fire line supervision of hand crew members, which responds to grass, brush, and forest fires and are available for district, region, and statewide and\/or interagency dispatch. Provides interagency fire suppression activities for initial attack, extended attack, mop-up, patrol, and rehabilitation. On initial attack fires, may perform ICS functions as Incident Commander Type 4 and 5, task force leader, air-to-ground contact, single resource boss, firefighter, timekeeper, or public relations contact. Assists in ensuring safe and efficient use of the Kulshan hand crew as an efficient and effective firefighting resource. This often requires working long, irregular hours on weekdays, weekends, holidays, day or night. Works cooperatively with other fire protection authorities when working on joint jurisdiction fires.<\/li>\n
- Under the guidance of the Crew Foreman, plans and implements training for seasonal crews and interagency cooperators. Instructs seasonal and permanent staff and private contractors as appropriate. Assists with developing the Unit\u2019s annual preparedness review. Plans and provides drills and training exercises regularly to the seasonal staff. Ensures safe working practices are followed and holds regular safety meetings and After-Action Reviews with the seasonal staff. Tracks crew training and ensures position task books are completed accurately.<\/li>\n
- Under the guidance of the Crew Superintendent and Foreman, develops and implements annual pre-suppression project work plans for firefighters. Assists with developing the Unit\u2019s annual preparedness review. Attends and participates in Unit and Region Staff meetings. Assists with the implementation of the unit\u2019s operational plan and ensures staff, equipment, and facilities are available and ready to meet the Region’s operational plan.<\/li>\n
- Under the guidance of the Crew Supervisor, plans and provides drills and training exercises on a regular basis to the firefighters. Coordinates work plan activities with other program managers and specialists. (e.g., fuel reduction, pre-commercial thinning, brushing roads, etc.).<\/li>\n
- Prepares for and participates in interagency training classes and hands-on courses of wildland firefighting tactics, fire behavior recognition, safe chainsaw operation, use of tools, pumps, and water delivery systems, working around helicopters, and assessments of hazards. Assists crew with guidance on various position task books, training records, and evaluations. Attends Fire Trainings to meet unit goals and personal fire training plan. As assigned, assists with required annual firefighter training and needs, and maintains certifications as required by the job position and to assist in recurrency training of the crew. Assists with the administration of Work Capacity Tests (pack tests). Assists in conducting Fire Unit training and participates as an instructor or lead at the Statewide Fire Training Academies or other trainings. Prepares lesson plans and timelines for a variety of professional training courses for participants from DNR, Interagency Cooperators, and the general public.<\/li>\n
- May lead or assist in presenting annual Operator Safety Training sessions for private fire contractors.<\/li>\n
- Plan, drills, and training exercises for the Assigned Hand Crew members and seasonal Engine fire staff.<\/li>\n
- Analyzes and documents training needs for seasonal crew members required to meet Incident Command System and appropriate NWCG position qualifications, certifications, and readiness levels. Ensures completion of all required agency and NWCG documentation. Ensures annual IQS information is sent to Region Training Coordinators.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/dd>\n
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Qualifications<\/h2>\n<\/dt>\n
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Required Qualifications:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n
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- Qualified as a NWCG Firefighter Type 1.<\/li>\n
- Knowledge of wildland fire suppression tactics and fire behavior recognition.<\/li>\n
- Encourages team unity through sharing information or expertise, working together to solve problems, and putting team success first.<\/li>\n
- Accustomed to tailoring communication to the needs and preferences of others.<\/li>\n
- Creates a positive work environment where all staff are motivated to do their best.<\/li>\n
- Safely performs work at all times. Avoids shortcuts that increase health and safety risks to self or others.<\/li>\n
- Maintains an open, approachable manner and treats others fairly and respectfully.<\/li>\n
- Preserves others\u2019 self-confidence and dignity and shows regard for their opinions.<\/li>\n
- Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.<\/li>\n
- Perform assigned duties in a manner consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and public records retention and requests are followed.<\/li>\n
- DNR Core Competencies:\n
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- Personal Accountability<\/li>\n
- Value Others<\/li>\n
- Compassionate Communication<\/li>\n
- Inspire Others<\/li>\n
- Commitment to Excellence<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nSpecial Requirements and Conditions of Employment:<\/strong>\n
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- Must pass work capacity test annually at the arduous level as required by NWCG.<\/li>\n
- Work is performed in the office setting (30%) of the time, and in unimproved natural areas of the state (70%). Incumbent must be able to traverse uneven terrain in all weather conditions. The outside environment varies from hot, dry, heat-related illness-type conditions in summer, to cold, wet, hypothermic-type conditions closer to wintertime. These duties may involve fieldwork requiring physical performance, calling for above-average endurance and superior conditioning.<\/li>\n
- Requires a large amount of travel (50%). This includes travel alone between fires, work centers, proposed work sites, as well as meeting with partners and cooperators. This includes driving in snowy, icy conditions with poor to little visibility, to driving in conditions while surrounded by smoke and fire. This position requires both night and overnight travel.<\/li>\n
- A valid driver\u2019s license and two years of driving experience. Additionally, DNR requires state drivers to possess a license that is not suspended, revoked, or restricted (for example, Occupational\/Restricted Driver Licenses or requiring ignition interlock devices). 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.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nDesired Qualifications:<\/strong>\n
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- High School Diploma or GED equivalent and 6 months of experience in wildland fire suppression and regulations.<\/li>\n
- NWCG qualified as either a Firefighter Type 1 or Helicopter Crew Member, and as an Incident Commander Type 5<\/li>\n
- \u00a0Skills in evaluating others\u2019 abilities and assessing training needs.<\/li>\n
- Experience with supervising or leading wildland firefighting personnel.<\/li>\n
- Experience in forest fire protection regulatory programs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nDon\u2019t let doubts stop you from applying for this position.<\/strong>\u00a0If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your experience relates to them, please contact us at\u00a0DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov<\/a>. 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\u2019t hesitate to apply!<\/dd>\n
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Supplemental Information<\/h2>\n<\/dt>\n
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Application Requirements:\u00a0<\/strong>Failure to provide the listed documents may result in disqualification. If you have questions or difficulty attaching these documents, please contact\u00a0DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov<\/a>.<\/p>\n
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- Apply online:\u00a0<\/strong>at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).<\/li>\n
- Letter of interest:\u00a0<\/strong>describing your specific qualifications for the position and the position required, desired, and special requirements.<\/li>\n
- Resume:\u00a0<\/strong>that details your experience and qualifications.<\/li>\n
- References:\u00a0<\/strong>References\u00a0<\/strong>are optional at the time your application is submitted. Finalists will be asked to provide a list of at least 3 professional references with current telephone numbers, including your current or most recent supervisor.<\/span><\/li>\n
- Important:\u00a0<\/strong>Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (social security number, year of birth, etc.).<\/li>\n
- Complete all supplemental questions.<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at\u00a0info@governmentjobs.com<\/a>\u00a0with 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.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nQuestions?<\/strong>\u00a0 Please contact Brandon Jenkins at\u00a0Brandon.Jenkins@dnr.wa.gov<\/a>\/360-319-5664 or Henry McMurray at\u00a0Henry.McMurray@dnr.wa.gov<\/a>360-319-6153 or email us at\u00a0DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov<\/a>.
Persons needing accommodation in the application\/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email\u00a0DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov<\/a>. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the\u00a0Washington Relay Service<\/a>\u00a0by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
About the Department of Natural Resources<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0(DNR).\u00a0<\/strong>
At DNR, we approach our work through the lens of making Washington a better place environmentally and are dedicated to serving Washington\u2019s lands and communities through diversity, equity, and inclusion.\u00a0
Our Vision\u00a0\u2013\u00a0<\/strong>Our actions ensure a future where Washington\u2019s lands, waters, and communities thrive.
Our Mission\u00a0\u2013<\/strong>\u00a0Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington\u2019s lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Our Core Values:<\/strong>\n- \n
- Safety and Well-Being \u2014Our top priority is the safety of the public and our employees.<\/li>\n
- Public Service \u2014We 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.<\/li>\n
- Innovation and Creative Problem-Solving \u2014 We solve our state\u2019s most pressing challenges through innovative thinking, dedication, and bold and creative vision.<\/li>\n
- Leadership and Teamwork \u2014We are committed to building leaders at all levels and building teams for success.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nDNR provides excellent benefits, a few of which include:<\/strong>\n
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- Commitment to organizational health and wellness<\/li>\n
- Work\/life balance<\/li>\n
- DNR Employee Resource Groups (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, Women\u2019s Employee Resource Group, Veterans Employee Resource Group, etc.)<\/li>\n
- Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups,\u00a0visit here to learn more<\/a><\/li>\n
- Leadership that empowers and supports employees<\/li>\n
- Professional development opportunities<\/li>\n
- Educational and career development aid<\/li>\n
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility<\/li>\n
- Opportunities to participate in wildland fire suppression assignments<\/li>\n
- A comprehensive benefits package includes employer contributions toward health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, sick leave, and vacation days. Visit\u00a0http:\/\/careers.wa.gov\/benefits.html<\/a>\u00a0for more information.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nAdditional Information:<\/strong>
This recruitment may be extended and used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.
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DNR does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit\u00a0www.uscis.gov<\/a>.
Veterans wishing to claim Veteran\u2019s preference, please attach a copy of your DD-214, NGB-22, or other verification of military service. Please black out your Social Security number before attaching it. We thank you and are grateful for your service!
Equal Opportunity Employer:\u00a0<\/strong>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 with 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.
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\u00a0360-664-1960 or 1-877-664-1960\u00a0or email\u00a0CareersHelp@des.wa.gov<\/a>.
Check us out on:\u00a0<\/strong>DNR\u2019s website<\/a>\u00a0|\u00a0Facebook<\/a>\u00a0|\u00a0Twitter<\/a>\u00a0|\u00a0Instagram<\/a>\u00a0|\u00a0YouTube<\/a>\u00a0|\u00a0WordPress<\/a><\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n- \n
- Employer<\/dt>\n
- State of Washington<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n<\/div>\n
- Letter of interest:\u00a0<\/strong>describing your specific qualifications for the position and the position required, desired, and special requirements.<\/li>\n
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- Benefits<\/a><\/li>\n