The Burn Crew Member (BCM) participates in wild land fire operations which include ignition, control, mop-up, suppression, monitoring, and other tasks as assigned.
The BCM participates on prescribed burns throughout the Southern Blue Ridge from November 7, 2019 through May 1, 2020. The Conservancy supports Southern Blue Ridge Fire Learning Network partners on multiple controlled burns each year. Under the direction of the Stewardship Manager, the crew members provide of wildland fire support for single or multi-day prescribed fire operations. Staffing needs for this position average 2-4 operational periods bi-weekly and operational periods are at the discretion of the Southern Blue Ridge Stewardship Manager. Operational periods will likely be sporadic and clustered by opportune weather conditions, and no guarantee of a minimum number of opportunities is given or implied. Under supervision by a Burn Crew Manager or Stewardship Manager, crew members will participate in opportunities only as their own schedules will allow, and thus participation on any given opportunity is not required
The primary responsibility of the Burn Crew Member will be to assist in wildland fire operations with TNC partners such as state and federal agencies or on TNC preserves. Wildland fire operations may include line construction, holding, ignition, patrol, mop-up, and monitoring weather. All TNC staff actively participating on a prescribed burn must meet FFT2 minimum qualification but do not need a red card. Individuals will be representing the Conservancy on partner burns and must act accordingly.
Individual is expected to provide some of their own personal protective equipment (Nomex pants, Nomex shirt, fire boots, hard hat) as outlined by the TNC fire management manual http://www.tncfiremanual.org/require.htm and provide their own transportation to the meeting location in Asheville. TNC will provide radio and transportation from Asheville to the burn unit and return. TNC can provide line pack, fire shelter, and radio harness if necessary.
Potential for assisting on forestry-related projects.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Works in a high-stress team environment.
- Works under close supervision.
- Ability to perform heavy physical work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Must be qualified as a Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including Introduction to ICS (I-100), Human Factors on the Fire line (L-180), Introduction to Wild Land Fire Behavior (S-190), Firefighting Training (S-130), and one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2. See http://www.tncfiremanual.org/firefighter.htm (TNC will provide refresher and administer arduous pack test at the start of the position.)
- Ability to achieve and maintain arduous physical fitness standard. Must be able to walk 3 miles in less than 45 minutes carrying 45 lbs.
- Must have valid driver’s license.
- Experience operating various types of equipment.
- Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, and driver’s license).
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-lingual skills and multicultural or cross cultural experience appreciated.
- 1-2 years training in fire operations or other science-related field or related experience in land management.
- Ability and willingness to work in a team environment.
- Preferably able to operate standard transmission vehicles and comfortable pulling equipment trailers.
- Ability to evaluate inputs in a rapidly changing work environment and make decisions that affect the safety and work of firefighters within squad.
- Ability to coordinate with staff through technology including text messages and emails; familiarity with Avenza PDFMaps.
- Other training which supports development of knowledge and skills: ATV Safety and Operations, S-212 Wildland Chainsaws, S-211 Portable Pumps and Water Use. Preference will be given to those with higher qualifications (above FFT1).
Compensation of $15.25 per hour will include travel time from a meet up location to the burn unit. If overnight travel is required, compensation will occur during actual work hours.
The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, 401k or savings-plan matching for eligible employees, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond.