Wildland Burn Crew Lead – Fire Operations

The Nature Conversancy; Southern Pines (NC); On-site; USD 3,003,000 - 4,277,000; Full time

Job summary

The Nature Conservancy seeks a NC Sandhills NFWF Burn Crew Manager to lead a 4–8 person burn crew in prescribed fire and wildland fire operations. The role involves supervising staff, coordinating with a Burn Boss, and maintaining equipment and safety standards across preserves.

Ideal candidates have FFT2, squad leadership, and strong physical fitness, with valid driver's license and ability to work in remote sites. Funding supports a two-year program and travel as needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent with 1-year training in fire operations or land management.
• Qualified Fire Fighter Type 1 (Squad Boss) and FFT1 task book or equivalent.
• Must meet local physical fitness standards as set by Fire Manager and the TNC Fire Manual.
• Experience operating and maintaining equipment like chainsaws, ATVs, tractors, and hand tools.
• Experience supervising staff or volunteers is required.
• May require related certifications such as CPR and pesticide application.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Participates in prescribed fire and wildfire activities including burn unit prep, fire operations, staff and volunteers management, equipment maintenance, mop up, and monitoring.
• Participates in restoration projects including thinning and planting.
• Maintains preserves and buildings, including tools, fences, boundaries, and grounds at historical sites.
• Supports volunteer events.
• Opportunity for professional development including drone operation and GIS training.

Skills

FFT2 certification

Leadership

Driver's license

Staff supervision

Wildland firefighting

GPS navigation

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Chainsaw

ATV

Tractor

Hand tools

Drip torch

BK radio

Job description

The Nature Conservancy seeks a NC Sandhills NFWF Burn Crew Manager to lead a 4–8 person burn crew in prescribed fire and wildland fire operations. The role involves supervising staff, coordinating with a Burn Boss, and maintaining equipment and safety standards across preserves.

Ideal candidates have FFT2, squad leadership, and strong physical fitness, with valid driver's license and ability to work in remote sites. Funding supports a two-year program and travel as needed.