[Hiring] Prescribed Fire Practitioner III @The Nature Conservancy

Role Description

Join us as a Prescribed Fire Practitioner and be at the heart of an evolving fire culture. The Nature Conservancy’s North America Fire program is developing a prescribed fire workforce to put more good fire on the ground in the places where it matters most. Our program works throughout the country to support fire adapted ecosystems and empower and prepare communities to live with fire.

Your journey with the North America Fire program means flexible work schedules, living wages, and countless opportunities to grow as a fire professional. Plus, you’ll build strong relationships within the fire community and local areas where we operate.

The Prescribed Fire Practitioner III functions as a member of North America Fire’s Prescribed Fire Modules program. They assist on prescribed and wildland fire operations throughout the United States by:

• Conducting prescribed burns
• Preparing fire lines
• Maintaining equipment
• Monitoring post-burn fire effects
• Carrying out other prescribed fire and vegetation management related tasks

As part of their ongoing professional development, the Prescribed Fire Practitioner III is responsible for:

• Keeping up with new burn techniques and equipment
• Building and maintaining relationships in the professional fire community and local communities
• Participating in partnerships with the U.S. Forest Service and other local, state, and federal agencies
• Engaging with non-profits, local fire departments, and Tribal or Indigenous communities

The Prescribed Fire Practitioner III will be expected to:

• Perform tasks under the supervision of the Prescribed Fire Module Leader
• Function as a professional and respectful member of a diverse team
• Assist with all aspects of prescribed burning
• Operate ATVs, UTVs, tractors, chainsaws, and leaf blowers
• Tow trailers and maintain assigned equipment
• Become competent with mobile mapping and data collection
• Perform heavy physical work in variable weather conditions
• Follow established safe work practices
• Maintain accurate records of work time, expenses, etc.
• Conduct themselves in ways that are consistent with TNC’s Code of Conduct

This is a part-time, seasonal, hourly position and overtime applies after the first 40 hours each week. Hourly compensation will range from $25.00 to $28.00 per hour.

The Prescribed Fire Practitioner III can reside anywhere in the contiguous United States and travel to and from assignments. They will be expected to be on prescribed fire assignments at least eight weeks during their six-month employment term. In most cases, the minimum assignment length will be two weeks. Travel expenses, meals, and lodging will be covered when traveling for assignments. Approved purchases of required equipment will be partially or fully reimbursed.

The use of alcohol and recreational drugs is prohibited while on assignment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Must be able to obtain the qualifications for Prescribed Fire Crew Member (RXCM) or Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2)
• Experience operating various types of equipment
• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required (e.g., First Aid, CPR)

Requirements

• Must achieve physical fitness standards as determined by the local Prescribed Fire Manager

Desired Qualifications

• Two or more years of experience in fire operations related experience in land management or a similar field
• Has a valid driver’s license and good driving record

Salary Information

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $25.00 - $28.00 per hour. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA.

Benefits

• Health care benefits
• Flexible spending accounts
• 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match
• Parental leave
• Accrued paid time off
• Life insurance
• Disability coverage
• Employee assistance program
• Other life and work well-being benefits