Natural Resource Specialist 4 - State Wildland Fire Aviation Manager

State of Oregon; Salem (OR); Hybrid; USD 76,000 - 112,000; Full time

Job summary

State Wildland Fire Aviation Manager at the Oregon Department of Forestry leads the statewide aviation program, directing the Aviation Unit’s operations, safety, and policy to support a coordinated wildfire response across the state.

The hybrid role combines remote work with on-site responsibilities in Salem and occasional travel to field offices as needed to meet operational needs and protect Oregon’s forests and communities.

Responsibilities

• Lead statewide aviation operations for coordinated wildfire response.
• Serve as ODF’s primary aviation expert and advisor.
• Develop and manage aviation contracts and agreements.
• Ensure district compliance with ODF policy and FAA regulations.
• Oversee aviation personnel qualifications and manage unit budgets.

Job description

Natural Resource Specialist 4 - State Wildland Fire Aviation Manager

Initial Posting Date 11/02/2026

Application Deadline 11/17/2026

Agency Forestry Department

Salary Range $6,834 - $10,076

Position Type Employee

Position Title Natural Resource Specialist 4 - State Wildland Fire Aviation Manager

Job Description The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is seeking an experienced and forward‑thinking leader to serve as our next State Wildland Fire Aviation Manager. This pivotal role directs all business of the Aviation Unit within the Protection Division and ensures ODF maintains the capability to mount a coordinated, statewide aviation response to emerging and active wildfire threats. The State Wildland Fire Aviation Manager provides critical staff support to 12 State and Association Forest Protection Districts and oversees aviation operations, safety, and policy for the agency.

Our Mission – To protect and promote resilient forests that benefit all Oregonians.

The Benefits Of Joining Our Team Work/life balance, 11 paid holidays a year, flexible work schedules, competitive benefits packages and so much more. Great Benefits Package - watch this video here. You’ll be part of the ODF team that serves our fellow Oregonians relying on regulation and protection of both public and private forest land in our great state of Oregon! Click here.

This position is Hybrid Remote Work. The duties of this position are performed remotely as well as at our central office in Salem. The ability to report to Salem or field offices is required when business or operational needs are dependent on onsite activities.

What We Are Looking For

The State Wildland Fire Aviation Manager plays a key role in protecting Oregon’s forests, communities, and natural resources. Your leadership will shape the aviation strategies that support wildfire response and public safety across the state. You will lead and manage ODF’s statewide aviation program, providing technical expertise, operational oversight, and strategic direction. Your responsibilities include:

Aviation Operations Management

• Lead statewide aviation operations for coordinated wildfire response.
• Serve as ODF’s primary aviation expert and advisor.
• Develop and manage aviation contracts and agreements.
• Ensure district compliance with ODF policy and FAA regulations.
• Oversee aviation personnel qualifications and manage unit budgets.

Aviation Policy Leadership

• Interpret federal and state aviation regulations and advise agency leadership.
• Develop aviation policy, directives, and guidance materials.

Aviation Safety Management

• Lead aviation safety and aircraft incident/accident investigations.
• Maintain the statewide aviation safety plan and review district plans.

Please note:

This position is currently pending reclassification to a Wildland Fire Program Manager 1