Aircraft Dispatch Coordinator, Wildland Fire Program Coordinator 1

Wildfire Aircraft Dispatch Coordinator

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Coordination Center is searching for a Wildfire Aircraft Dispatch Coordinator (Wildland Fire Coordinator 1). During fire season, the DNR Coordination Center (DNR CC) can be very active as a Dispatch Center. The position will report to the DNR CC Center Manager but will also take direction from the Aviation Assistant Division Manager and coordinate directly with other Aviation Program staff to carry out programmatic duties. This position works under the guidance of state regulations, agency policies and procedures, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and agency strategic plans. This position supports the mission and goals of the agency through the coordination of wildland fire mobilization, dispatching, regulation, contracting, and interagency agreements. This position will dispatch DNR and Contract aircraft to wildland fires, working with DNR, partner agency staff, and the private aviation sector. The position will track DNR Aircraft mobilization, demobilization, and response efforts. This position is an important link coordinating the fiscal accountability for aircraft billings with the operational use of DNR aviation assets. The position will provide technical direction, coordination, and make recommendations to improve aviation dispatch procedures and protocols through pre-season preparedness efforts, AARs, aviation briefings, etc. The individual in this position ensures the DNR Coordination Center (DNR CC) aircraft desk is maintained in a constant state of readiness. To be successful in this role, the selected individual will need to be: service-oriented, calm under pressure, attentive to detail, and possess strong verbal and written communication skills. Additionally, the person serving in this role will be required to learn established, complex procedures, tools, and technical programs. They will communicate and coordinate with the DNR Coordination Center Manager and the Aviation Assistant Division Manager to use their judgment and make decisions that align with those procedures and support the overall mission to protect the health of Washington's lands.