Salish Unit Crew Superintendent, Wildland Fire Management Specialist (WFMSpec)

State of Washington; Washington; On-site; USD 50,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

State of Washington’s Department of Natural Resources is seeking a Salish Unit Crew Superintendent and Wildland Fire Management Specialist (WFMSpec) in the Northwest Region. The role leads and trains wildfire crews, coordinates suppression activities, and develops annual work plans to meet regional fire management objectives.

Travel is required; NWCG qualifications and strong collaboration across agencies are essential.

Qualifications

• Experience supervising crews in wildfire or related fields.
• Ability to interpret agreements and contracts.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.

Responsibilities

• Protects human life and natural resources on department-protected lands, maintaining readiness for fire assignments.
• Coordinates with agencies and management teams on suppression activities, including long and irregular hours.
• Plans and provides training for seasonal crews, ensuring safety and staff readiness.
• Develops operations plans and coordinates with program managers to ensure resources and facilities are available.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Strong communication

Safety-conscious

Education

NWCG Single Resource Boss – Crew Boss certification

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Word

PowerPoint

Job description

Salish Unit Crew Superintendent, Wildland Fire Management Specialist (WFMSpec) Recruitment #2026-10-A030 Full-time, Permanent, Represented position (WPEA) Location: Northwest Region- Stanwood, WA Salary: $4,517.00 - $6,075.00 Monthly

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 10/21/26. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Northwest Region as a 10-person Salish Unit Crew Superintendent, Wildland Fire Management Specialist (WFMSpec).

This position supports the agency's mission by providing wildland fire management services to, and on behalf of, the public. This critical service protects public resources, natural resources, and public safety. Agency Wildland Fire Vision Statement: Working collaboratively across jurisdictional boundaries and with engaged communities, we safeguard what we value. All of Washington is adapted and prepared, and our landscapes are healthy and resilient. We prevent wildland fire, use fire where allowable, and safely suppress unwanted fire. Agency Forest Health Vision Statement: Washington’s forested landscapes are in an ecologically functioning and resilient condition and meet the economic and social needs of present and future generations. This position serves several important roles for the agency, providing support for the Wildland Fire Protection Strategy and the Forest Health Strategic Plan for EWA. The position helps meet wildland fire suppression needs and supports associated activities during the active fire season. The Salish Fire Suppression Module Superintendent is responsible for leading and training module firefighters in wildfire response, projects, firewise, and forest resiliency. A current NWCG Crew Boss CRWB qualification is required for this position.

Responsibilities

• Protects human life and natural resources on department-protected lands while minimizing resource loss and fire costs as outlined in RCW 76.04.015.016. In an effort to reduce unwanted acres burned, it places a high level of readiness and preparedness on safely and effectively operating a hand crew resource on fire assignments.
• Works closely with other agencies and/or management teams in coordinating fire suppression activities in and adjacent to the district. Often required to work long, irregular hours on workdays, weekends, day or night. These duties may involve fieldwork requiring physical performance calling for above average endurance and superior conditioning. Participates in statewide fire suppression activities.
• Under the guidance of the Fire Unit Manager, plans and implements training for seasonal crews and interagency cooperators. Instructs seasonal staff, permanent staff, and private contractors as appropriate. Assists with developing the Unit’s annual preparedness review. Plans and provides drills and training exercises on a regular basis to the seasonal staff. Ensures safe working practices are followed and holds regular safety meetings and After Action Reviews with assigned staff. Tracks crew training and ensures position task books are completed accurately. Ensures vehicles are serviced regularly, and crew vehicles are equipped and ready for fire suppression.
• Assists the Fire Unit Manager in developing an operations plan for the fire unit based on fire suppression and preparedness program deliverables. Recommends to the Fire Unit Manager seasonal fire staffing levels, analyzes training needs required to meet Incident Command System and appropriate NWCG position qualification and readiness levels. Assists with implementation of the unit’s operational plan and ensures staff, resources, equipment, and facilities are available and ready to meet the Region operational plan. Under the guidance of the Fire Unit Manager, develops and implements annual project work plans for staff. Coordinates work plan activities with other program managers and specialists.

Required Qualifications

You must meet all the Required Qualifications and Competencies to be considered for this position. There are multiple pathways to meet qualifications, such as education, volunteer work, life skills, and experience. Please clearly communicate in your application material that your skills align with the position and qualifications.

• Supervisory experience, which may include fire line supervision.
• Certified as a NWCG Single Resource Boss – Crew Boss.
• Experience in interpreting agreements and contracts.
• Experience with computer applications such as Microsoft Office Suite, Word, and PowerPoint.

Required Competencies

• Encourages team unity through sharing information or expertise, working together to solve problems, and putting team success first.
• Accustomed to tailoring communication to the needs and preferences of others.
• Creates a positive work environment where all staff are motivated to do their best.
• Performs work in a safe manner at all times. Avoids shortcuts that increase health and safety risks to self or others.
• Maintains an open, approachable manner, and treats others fairly and respectfully.
• Preserves others’ self-confidence and dignity and shows regard for their opinions.
• 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 ensure requests are followed.
• DNR Core Competencies:
  • Personal Accountability
  • Value Others
  • Compassionate Communication
  • Inspire Others
  • Commitment to Excellence

Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment

• Must pass work capacity test annually at the arduous level required by current red card qualifications.
• Field and Office: Position’s assigned duty station is the work center. Work is performed in an office setting (30%) and alone in isolated unimproved natural areas within the unit (70%). Incumbents must be able to traverse uneven terrain in all weather conditions.
• Position requires travel (50%) to the field for project work, fires, or supervision, and to attend meetings or various trainings. Frequent overnight travel is required for training, meetings, and fire assignments.
• A current, valid driver’s 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.

Desired Qualifications

These qualifications are not required. However, it can help you stand out as a candidate and should be highlighted in your application material.

• Qualified as NWCG Strike Team Leader OR has any two Single Resource Boss qualifications OR two years’ experience as a Single Resource Boss.
• Incident Commander Type 4.
• Associate degree or higher in Fire Science, Natural Resource Management, or a closely related field.
• Commitment to continual learning and adaptation to technology advances.
• Skills in evaluating others’ abilities and assessing training needs.
• Facilitative skills to work with groups of people to solve issues.
• Ability to empower employees to create an effective workforce.
• Ability to increase effectiveness by focusing on situational awareness, communication skills, teamwork, task allocation, and decision-making.

At DNR, we value diversity and inclusion and are committed to hiring the best candidate for the job. Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position. If you have any questions about the qualifications, please email us at [e-mail].

Application Requirements

Failure to provide the listed documents may result in disqualification. If you have questions or difficulty attaching these documents, please contact [e-mail].

• Online Application: Apply at www.careers.wa.gov. You must complete the entire online application to be considered for the position.
• Cover Letter: Your cover letter should be tailored to this job posting. Be sure to highlight your qualifications for this role, directly address the requirements of the position, and explain why you’re the best candidate for the job.
• Resume: Your resume should consist of your work history, education, volunteer work, life skills, experience, and any other relevant information associated with the position.
• References: References are optional at the time your application is submitted. Finalists will be asked to provide a list of at least three (3) professional references, to include a current or most recent supervisor, along with telephone numbers.
• Complete All Supplemental Questions: Answers to these questions will be used to evaluate candidates. Please provide comprehensive answers to all questions requiring a text response.
• Important:Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (Social Security Number, year of birth, etc.).
• Email Communication: Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at [e-mail] with interview information/scheduling instructions. Please monitor the email listed in your application materials and check your junk email folder to ensure you receive these communications.

Questions?

Please contact Jason McMillen at [e-mail]/360-854-8098 or email us at [e-mail].

Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call [phone] or email [e-mail]. 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 Values:

• Integrity—Staff who work at the Department of Natural Resources are principled and consistent on behalf of all Washingtonians.
• Respect—Employees value and respect the public DNR serves, and one another.
• Professionalism—The Agency is committed to professionalism and civil conduct.
• Joy—DNR’s work involves some of the most pressing challenges and opportunities impacting Washington, which staff meet with curiosity and gratitude.

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 E-Verify; therefore, we are not eligible to extend STEM-Optional Practice Training (OPT). For information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Veterans wishing to claim Veteran’s preference, please attach a copy of your DD214 (Member 4 long-form copy), NGB 22, or a USDVA signed verification of service letter. Please black out all PII (personally identifiable information) data, such as Social Security numbers. 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 [e-mail].

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