Forest Health Engine Captain, Wildland Fire Management Supervisor (WFMSup)

Forest Health Engine Captain, Wildland Fire Management Supervisor (WFMSup)

Salary

$50,412.00 - $67,704.00 Annually

Location

Spokane County - Other, WA

Job Type

Project (limited duration)

Job Number

2026-9-P453/P454-07993

Department

Dept. of Natural Resources

Opening Date

09/28/2026

Closing Date

10/12/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

Salary Information

The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Forest Health Engine Captain, Wildland Fire Management Supervisor (WFMSup)

Recruitment #2026-9-P453/P454

Full-time, Project, Represented position (WPEA)

Anticipated Project employment is October 2026 - March 2029

Location: Northeast Region- Deer Park, WA

Work Hours flexibility may be available and considered

Salary: $4,201.00 - $5,642.00 Monthly

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 10/5/26. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?

The Northeast Region of the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is actively seeking two (2) Forest Health Engine Captains (Wildland Fire Management Supervisors) to support the goals and mission statement of the Department. The DNR is responsible for protecting over 13 million acres of both state- and privately-owned lands. Working with interagency partners, DNR embraces an all-hands, all lands vision. DNR serves the communities of Washington and is a strong advocate of wildland fire prevention, suppression, and mitigation. During the non-fire season months of the year, this position will be a supervisor on the newly created River City Fuels Crew. During the fire season, this position will act as an Engine Captain conducting initial attack wildfire suppression.

The Arcadia District is responsible for forest health, wildfire suppression, prevention education, and regulation on all or parts of four counties (Spokane, Pend Oreille, Stevens, and Lincoln), including one hundred thousand acres of state trust land. The Arcadia District conducts suppression actions on approximately 300 fire starts annually, processes approximately 400 burn permit requests, and provides training courses to our local cooperators. A large part of the Arcadia District is located in the Wildland Urban Interface of the greater Spokane area, where the primary focus on hazardous fuels reduction takes place and the heaviest loading of initial attack wildfire incidents. Interagency cooperation occurs on the majority of fuels project sites, wildland fires, and most training courses. Interagency cooperation includes working with local fire districts, state and federal partners, and is a key function of the position.

Duties

Responsibilities:

The Forest Health Engine Captains will be expected to excel at two separate jobs over the course of the project duration, depending on the time of year, and will be under the guidance of a Wildland Fire Management Specialist (Assistant Fire Management Officer). One of these responsibilities will be operating as a supervisor for the River City Fuels Crew, a 22-person fuels reduction crew following specific prescriptions to implement forest health plans for priority sites around the District. This will include supervising one Wildland Fire Management Lead and up to four Wildland Fire Management Technicians. This position will be the primary leadership on the ground at the project sites and is responsible for assessing and monitoring the safety of the crew members while also comparing crew production output to project deadlines.

This position will be making recommendations on fuels reduction strategies and then driving the completion of the prescriptions while ensuring the guidance of the forester or project manager is being adhered to. The Forest Health Engine Captain will be operating alongside agency partners and is a critical part of the professional representation of the Arcadia District.

The fuels reduction crew will be implementing wildland hazardous fuels mitigation projects. These critical services protect public resources, natural resources, and public safety. The fuels reduction projects will help the agency implement Goal 1 of the 20-Year Forest Health Strategic Plan, Eastern Washington, by directly providing scientifically sound, landscape-scale cross-boundary management and restoration treatments in priority watersheds to increase forest and watershed resilience. The treatment projects include non-commercial tree thinning using chain saws, tree pruning, and slash abatement. Slash abatement can be performed using prescribed fire, chipping, or windrowing for mechanical mastication.

During the fire season, the Forest Health Engine Captains will be operating as a Wildland Firefighting Engine Captain on a Type 5 brush Engine in the Arcadia District, supervising up to 4 Wildland Firefighters, and responsible for responding to wildfire incidents in a safe and efficient manner. This will include operating in NWCG Wildland Fire positions such as Incident Commander, Engine Boss, Heavy Equipment Boss, Wildland Fire Investigator, and more depending on the scale and needs of the incident.

When not on wildfire incidents, these positions are responsible for creating daily schedules for the firefighters on their Engine, which may include training, studying, or checking previous incidents. The Engine will be expected to be competent and professional while on and off the fire line. The Forest Health Engine Captain will also play a hand in our prevention messaging and support the Departments Wildfire Ready Neighbor program, where they will be expected to be subject matter experts on wildfire home defense and hardening.

The Arcadia District is a fast-paced and complex work environment that places an emphasis on building culture that requires an individual who will work within the team goals and dynamics to be successful. The individuals selected for these positions would be employed year-round, completing fuels reduction work in the winters and engaged in fire suppression in the summers.

Qualifications

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.

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.

• NWCG qualified as:

• Single Resource Boss (any)

• Incident Commander Type 5

• Supervisory experience.

• Experience with computer applications, such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, and GPS.

• Experience with:

• Fire Effects and Fire Fuel Reduction

• Smoke Management

• Regulatory Education

• Fire Regulatory and Enforcement

• Fire Prevention Programs

• Fire Suppression

• Silvicultural techniques to improve forest health

Required Competencies:

• Good writing and verbal communication skills and ability to work with the public, sometimes under stressful conditions.
• Ability to act promptly and use good judgment in emergencies.
• 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 annually pass the arduous level work capacity test.
• This position is a field position (80%). The fire suppression and prescribed fire work is strenuous outdoor work in all weather conditions. Must be able to traverse uneven and mountainous terrain, e.g., very steep terrain; rocky, loose, or muddy ground surfaces; thick vegetation; down/standing trees; wet leaves/grass; varied climates (cold, hot, wet, dry, humid, snow, rain; high altitudes; heights; holes and drop-offs; very rough roads; open bodies of water; isolated/remote sites. Might need to work in close quarters, with limited/disrupted sleep.
• This position will be assigned an agency vehicle. Position requires significant driving and field visits within the assigned area.
• 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.

• Bachelor's Degree in Fire Science, Natural Resources, Forestry, or related field OR an equivalent combination of education and/or experience.

• NWCG Qualifications:

• Incident Commander Type 4

• Strike Team Leader or Task Force Leader

• Wildland Fire Investigator

• Multiple Single Resource Boss qualifications

• Prescribed Fire Burn Boss 2 (RXB2)

• Fire Effects Monitoring (FEMO)

• Firing Boss (FIRB)

• Experience with:

• Prescribed Fire Operations

• Burn Plan Writing

• DNR Burn Permit Regulations

• Silvicultural techniques to improve habitat for fish and wildlife

• Monitoring and/or data collection for fire effects, forest insects and disease, and/or forest health conditions.

• Knowledge of the application: Survey 1-2-3.

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 DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

Supplemental Information

Application Requirements: Failure to provide the listed documents may result in disqualification. If you have questions or difficulty attaching these documents, please contact DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

• Online Application: Apply at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above). 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 info@governmentjobs.com 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 Daniel Stralser at daniel.stralser@dnr.wa.gov/509-675-2586 or Daryl Schie at daryl.schie@dnr.wa.gov/509-680-8093, or email us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. 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 Core Values:

• Safety and Well-Being -Our top priority is the safety of the public and our employees.
• Public Service -We value and respect the public we serve, and we value and respect the people of the Department of Natural Resources who step up to serve.
• Innovation and Creative Problem-Solving - We solve our state's most pressing challenges through innovative thinking, dedication, and bold and creative vision.
• Leadership and Teamwork -We are committed to building leaders at all levels and building teams for success.

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 CareersHelp@des.wa.gov.

Check us out on: DNR's website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | WordPress

More than Just a Paycheck!

Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. Thats why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:

The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits

Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security

All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness

If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays

Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave

Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)

Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave

Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave

Leave Sharing

Parental Leave

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 01-07-2026

01

Please specify where you originally learned of this employment opportunity.

02

Please describe what interests you about the Department of Natural Resources.

03

Please describe what a work environment based on diversity, equity, inclusivity and belonging means to you.

04

Do you have a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent?

• Yes
• No

05

Are you certified as a NWCG Single Resource Boss and Incident Commander Type 5?

• Yes
• No

06

Do you have supervisory experience?

• Yes
• No

07

Please describe any experience you have supervising staff. If you do not have this experience, type N/A.

08

Do you have experience with computer applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher, and GPS?

• Yes
• No

09

Please select ALL of the areas that you have experience in from below:

• Fire Effects and Fire Fuel Reduction
• Smoke Management
• Regulatory Education
• Fire Regulatory and Enforcement
• Fire Prevention Programs
• Fire Suppression
• Silvicultural techniques to improve forest health
• None of the above

10

Do you have a valid drivers license and at least two years of driving experience?

• Yes
• No

11

Please select ALL of the areas that you have experience in from below:

• Prescribed Fire Operations
• Burn Plan Writing
• DNR Burn Permit Regulations
• Silvicultural techniques to improve habitat for fish and wildlife
• Monitoring and/or data collection for fire effects, forest insects and disease, and/or forest health conditions.
• Knowledge of the application: Survey 1-2-3.
• None of the above

12

Please select ALL qualifications you hold from below:

• Incident Commander Type 4
• Strike Team Leader or Task Force Leader
• Wildland Fire Investigator
• Multiple Single Resource Boss qualifications
• Prescribed Fire Burn Boss 2 (RXB2)
• Fire Effects Monitoring (FEMO)
• Firing Boss (FIRB)
• None of the above

13

Do you currently require, or will you require in the future, employer sponsorship for a work visa? Please note that DNR does not use E-Verify and cannot extend STEM OPT.

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov