The Burn Boss directs prescribed fire operations and oversees training and qualifications of crew members at the local and state level, and assists in all aspects of planning, prepping, and implementing prescribed fire activities in Texas.
The Burn Boss (BB) directs prescribed fire operations; coordinates fire suppression activities and may develop or review Prescribed Burn Unit Plans and Site Fire Management Plans. The BB is responsible for safe and effective fire operations, administers physical fitness testing, trains and organizes crew; conducts annual refresher training, maintains documentation files for crew member training and qualifications, and maintains fire equipment in working condition. The BB evaluates trainees and certifies task books for positions up to RXB2. The BB may perform other preserve management duties when conditions are not conducive to prescribed fire. As part of the incumbent’s ongoing professional development, the BB will be responsible for keeping abreast of new burn techniques and equipment to enhance skills and maintain/grow professional fire certification credentials. In addition, they shall work to build and maintain relationships in the professional fire community and in the local community where the Conservancy works. This may include participation in prescribed fire and/or wild land fire suppression activities in partnership with other non-profits, landowners, local fire departments, and local, state and federal agencies, either as a TNC employee, or as a volunteer or short-term employee of the partner entity (such as an Administratively Determined, short term federal employee).
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Makes decisions in rapidly changing and potentially hazardous conditions that may affect the safety of staff and resources.
- Oversees staff and volunteers who serve as Burn Crew Members.
- Ensures Crew Members are well-trained and maintains records of training. Reports experience and training for crew to Conservancy Fire Manager annually for recording to Incident Qualification and Certification System.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Under minimal supervision makes independent decision based on analysis, experience and judgment.
- 3 years related experience in fire operations or ecological land management or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Must meet NWCG qualifications for RxB2, including coursework and experience requirements. See the Conservancy’s Fire Management Manual for a full explanation of qualification requirements: http://www.tncfiremanual.org/BurnBoss.htm.
- Must achieve physical fitness standards as set by local Fire Manager.
- Experience directing prescribed fire operations.
- Experience training and supervising staff and burn crew members or volunteers
- Experience leading effectively in stressful situations.
- Experience using applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and Web Browsers.
- Must have valid driver’s license and good driving record
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-lingual skills and multicultural or cross cultural experience appreciated.
- 3 to 5 years related experience in fire operations or ecological land management, similar field or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Relationship building and negotiation skills.
- Experience working with or knowledge of natural systems.
- Ability to recognize plant and animal species for executing an ecologically appropriate fire regime.
- Knowledge of ecological land management principles.
- Knowledge of current trends and practices in conservation, land management, and natural resource preservation.
- Experience managing time and diverse activities under deadlines while delivering quality results.
- Excellent communication skills via written, spoken, and graphical means in English and other relevant languages
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.