Aircraft Dispatch Coordinator, Wildland Fire Program Coordinator (WFPC1)

Aircraft Dispatch Coordinator, Wildland Fire Program Coordinator (WFPC1) Recruitment #2026-5-7971 Full‑time, Permanent, Represented position (WFSE) Location: Southeast Region- East Wenatchee, WA Salary: $5,398.00 - $7,254.00 Monthly Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 6/2/26. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Southeast Region. The Central Washington Interagency Communications Center (CWICC) is looking for an Aircraft Dispatch Coordinator to join our team. The person hired into this role will be responsible for providing timely and effective dispatching and coordination of aircraft, personnel, and equipment for fire suppression, as well as providing administrative support to the fire suppression program (fire reports, resource orders, record retention, cost tracking, rosters, smoke management, etc.). The incumbent will have strong communication skills, interact with managers, supervisors, employees across DNR and other agencies, and handle public interaction. The role requires confidence, independent decision‑making, and composure under high‑stress conditions. Duties Coordinating, leading, and dispatching multi‑agency rotor‑wing and fixed‑wing aircraft for initial attack. Assessment and decision‑making about aircraft utilization on emerging and ongoing incidents. Utilizing Automatic Flight Following (AFF), IROC, and WildCAD for aviation resource tracking and communication. Monitoring the need for Temporary Flight Restrictions. Work, communicate, and coordinate with neighboring dispatch centers, as well as agency SEAT, helicopter, smokejumper, rappel, short‑haul, and tanker bases. Coordinate interagency aviation communications and preparedness. Represent CWICC at various interagency aviation briefings, preparedness meetings, workshops, and after‑action reviews. Track costs for all CWICC‑controlled aircraft. Ensure correct implementation of DNR and federal aviation agreements, including Exclusive Use and Call When Needed resources. Develop aircraft cost reports. Supervise 2–4 seasonal aircraft and/or initial attack dispatchers. Qualifications Required Qualifications: Two years of professional experience in the natural resource field, dispatching, communications, or business administration, or related field; or an equivalent combination of education and/or experience. Incident Command System experience. National Incident Management System (NIMS) training. Experience with researching and interpreting complex rules, legal documents, plans, and contracts. Knowledge of fire suppression principles/techniques and resource capabilities/limitations. Required Competencies: Strong organizational skills. 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 requirements. DNR Core Competencies: Personal Accountability, Value Others, Compassionate Communication, Inspire Others, Commitment to Excellence. Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment: Position assigned to CWICC in East Wenatchee. Work performed in a dispatch office environment with frequent interruptions, multi‑tasking, and stressful conditions; may involve overtime on short notice, varying schedules, and handling up to 30‑pound objects. Occasional travel to meetings and trainings throughout the region and state. Desired Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in an applicable field; or combination of education and experience. Initial Attack Dispatcher experience. Aircraft Dispatcher experience. Experience in wildland firefighting operations. Benefits Health insurance contributions. Paid holidays, sick leave, and vacation days. Retirement plan contributions. Professional development opportunities. Opportunities to participate in wildland fire suppression assignments. Programmatic awards and recognition. Application Information Online Application: Apply at The entire online application must be completed. Cover Letter: Tailored to this job posting, highlighting qualifications and explaining why you are the best candidate. Resume: Include work history, education, volunteer work, life skills, experience, and any other relevant information. References: Optional at submission; finalists will be asked to provide at least three professional references with contact details. Complete Supplemental Questions: Provide comprehensive answers to all questions requiring a text response. Important: Do not attach documents that include photos or private information (Social Security Number, year of birth, etc.). Email Communication: Candidates who move forward may be contacted via email at View email address on click.appcast.io with interview information. Contact Justin Bishop, View phone number on click.appcast.io, View email address on click.appcast.io 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr