Wildland Fire Dispatcher 3 (WFD3) / Wildland Fire Dispatcher 2 (WFD2) In-Training

Full Job Description

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within the Olympic Region as a Wildland Fire Dispatcher 3 (WFD3) / Wildland Fire Dispatcher 2 (WFD2) In-Training. This position provides specialized administrative and complex clerical support to the Fire Training/Dispatch Coordinator and the Region’s Fire District Manager. The incumbent utilizes independent judgment and knowledge of laws and policies to assist in the operation of the Region’s Communication Center and Emergency Management. This position independently performs professional-level emergency management duties under the general direction of the Fire Training/Dispatch Coordinator, Fire District Manager, and/or Region Duty Person. This position routinely performs tasks for the Region Business Operations Group, such as receipting monies, preparing the daily deposit, and distributing mail. Valuing others, creating a positive work environment that allows each employee to teach others through trust, inclusiveness, and equity, personal accountability, compassionate communication, inspiring Others and commitment to excellence.

Requirements

Responsibilities:

• Operating multi-channel radio, Wildcad, and multiple line phone systems to maintain communications between region personnel and the general public or field and office personnel.
• Responding to inquiries regarding outdoor burning regulations, fire equipment regulations, and industrial fire precaution levels.
• Receiving reports of wildfires and coordinating and documenting the response.
• Maintaining a 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.

Qualifications

This may be filled as an in-training position. This is designated as a 9-18 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 (WFD2) In-Training or Wildland Fire Dispatcher 3 (WFD3), depending on qualifications.

Required Qualifications:
Wildland Fire Dispatcher 2 (WFD2) In-Training
(Salary range: $3,477 - $4,632 per month):

• 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.
• Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.
• Perform assigned duties in a manner consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and public records retention and requests are followed.
• DNR Core Competencies:
  • Personal Accountability
  • Value Others
  • Compassionate Communication
  • Inspire Others
  • Commitment to Excellence

Wildland Fire Dispatcher 3 (WFD3)
(Salary range: $3,643 - $4,865 per month):

• One or more seasons as a Wildland Fire Dispatcher 2;
  OR an equivalent combination of other dispatch experience to include 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 in 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.
• Experience providing customer service to diverse clients.
• Accustomed to appropriately managing time and workload.
• Flexibility to adapt to changing workload needs.
• Accustomed to constructively working with others to address and/or resolve problems.
• Proficient in staying calm and working through emergencies in a fast-paced, stressful environment.
• Knowledge of office practices and correspondence preparation.

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:

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 the workstation for 8 hours per day or longer if needed.

(With breaks and a meal period). Ability to maneuver up to 25 pounds.

Occasional travel for training and/or meetings is part of this position. Agency assigned vehicle for travel.

Desired Qualifications:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• 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.

Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position. At DNR, we value diversity and inclusion in our organization, and we are looking for the best person for the job. We are invested in acquiring the best and most innovative candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one from a less traditional background. It is important you consider and clearly communicate within your application materials how your education, volunteer work, life skills, and experience transfer to this position and the qualifications. If you have any questions about the qualifications, please contact us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. Don’t hesitate to apply!

Additional Information

Application Requirements: Failure to provide the listed documents may result in disqualification. If you have questions or difficulty attaching these documents, please contact DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

• Apply online: at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).
• Letter of interest: describing your specific qualifications for the position and the position required, desired, and special requirements.
• Resume: that details your experience and qualifications.
• References: References 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.
• 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.

Questions? Please contact Mindy Dunn at mindy.dunn@dnr.wa.gov / (360) 374-2862 or email us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.

About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
At DNR, we approach our work through the lens of making Washington a better place environmentally and are dedicated to serving Washington’s lands and communities through diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Our Vision – Our actions ensure a future where Washington’s lands, waters, and communities thrive.
Our Mission – Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington’s lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Our Core Values:

• 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.

DNR provides excellent benefits, a few of which include:

• 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 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.

Additional Information:
This recruitment may be extended and used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.

DNR does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Veterans wishing to claim Veteran’s 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: 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 360-664-1960 or 1-877-664-1960 or email CareersHelp@des.wa.gov.

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