Lead Prescribed Fire Manager – Appalachian Forest Restoration

Nature; Sparta (TN); On-site; USD 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Nature Conservancy seeks a Prescribed Fire Manager to lead fire operations in the Tennessee Cumberland Plateau region. This role requires NWCG RXB2 qualification, strong planning skills, and a track record in prescribed burns, training, and partnerships with public and private entities.

Based at Bridgestone Nature Reserve, Chestnut Mountain, the position oversees staff, infrastructure, and safety protocols while advancing landscape-scale forest restoration and collaborative fire programs

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in fire management or related field with 4+ years of experience.
• Experience writing prescribed burn plans and wildfire response plans.
• Knowledge of Appalachian fuels and restoration strategies.
• Experience supervising seasonal and permanent staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead prescribed fire operations and burn boss activities.
• Oversee preservation infrastructure and access at Chestnut Mountain.
• Develop and manage fire management plans and contractor qualifications.
• Coordinate MOUs/MOAs with partner agencies and stakeholders.

Skills

NWCG RXB2

Fire management leadership

Grant writing

Staff training

Education

Bachelor’s degree in fire/natural resources

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

ArcGIS Pro

Job description

The Nature Conservancy seeks a Prescribed Fire Manager to lead fire operations in the Tennessee Cumberland Plateau region. This role requires NWCG RXB2 qualification, strong planning skills, and a track record in prescribed burns, training, and partnerships with public and private entities.

Based at Bridgestone Nature Reserve, Chestnut Mountain, the position oversees staff, infrastructure, and safety protocols while advancing landscape-scale forest restoration and collaborative fire programs