Demo

Lead Dispatcher, Wildland Fire Dispatcher 3 (WFD3)

State of Washington
Walla Walla, WA Part Time
POSTED ON 4/23/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/22/2025
Description

Lead Dispatcher, Wildland Fire Dispatcher 3 (WFD3)

Recruitment #2025-4-0024

Full-time, Permanent, Represented position

Location: Pacific Cascade Region- Castle Rock, WA

Salary: $3,643.00 - $4,865.00

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment any time after 4/29/25. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity. Pacific Cascade Region is seeking a Wildland Dispatcher 3 in the Wildfire Program. This position works directly for the Dispatch Supervisor as a Pacific Cascade Region Communication Center staff member. As a team that works in a fast-paced, dynamic environment during the time of year associated with fire season, the incumbent uses both independent judgment and knowledge-based established guidelines and procedures to provide safe, reliable, and effective service from the Region Communications Center. This position provides a variety of specialized administrative and complex clerical functions, which encompass direct support of the following programs, applications, and activities: wildfire and emergency dispatching, Incident Qualification System (IQS), Incident Resource Ordering Capability (IROC), Computer Automated Wildland Fire Dispatch System (WildCAD-E), radio and telephone communications, Industrial Fire Precaution Level ratings. The person in this position is responsible for timely and accurate data entry into numerous web-based applications to capture and record wildfire activity; fire weather forecast retrievals and radio broadcasts; private and industrial cooperator notifications; regional standby updates; fire reports, resource directory maintenance; fire prevention; and general region administrative support. Scheduled workdays and hours are subject to change, including holidays and weekends (April through October) and other periods during the year as required. In addition, emergency work may require overtime on regularly scheduled workdays, as well as working on scheduled days off. This is a permanent full-time position represented by WPEA.

What will we trust you with?

  • Leading, training, and coaching Seasonal Dispatchers
  • Creativity and innovation
  • Diligence
  • Detail-oriented without losing sight of the big picture
  • Collaboration
  • Critical decision making
  • Employee engagement

Additionally, the person serving in this role will be required to learn established, complex procedures, tools, and technical programs. They will then use their judgment to make daily decisions that align with those procedures and support the overall mission to protect the health of Washington's lands.

Duties

Responsibilities

This position activates emergency responses when life, property, or natural resources are threatened due to wildfire or other emergencies. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Knowledge and Ability to explain Forest Fire Protection Laws/Rules (violations, silviculture burning, forest closures and suspensions, fire protection regulations, hazard abatement).
  • Knowledge and Ability to explain the agency's fire protection policies and procedures.
  • Communication - Active listening with particular attention to clarifying fire situations; clear, accurate, and concise verbal communication in person and over the radio and phone. Written communications effectively convey ideas and information using language that is appropriate to both the complexity of the topic and the knowledge and understanding of the reader.
  • Analysis - Uses data and information in a clear and rational thought process to assess and understand issues, evaluate options, form accurate conclusions, and make decisions. Anticipate, assess, and respond to changing fire situations.
  • Manage Workloads - Organizes multiple assignments to produce work products that are accurate, thorough, and on time. Adept at multi-tasking.
  • Recordkeeping - Consistently and accurately documents information or updates records so that they reflect the most current information and form a complete and understandable account of changes, decisions, activities, and work performed.
  • Computer Skills -Uses various databases, word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software, such as MS Office to create and maintain databases, spreadsheets, charts, graphs, letters, and other documents, using mathematical formulas to calculate data, link worksheets, import data, edit table, columns, format sections, create headers and footers, and work with pictures and draw objects. Compose, send, and respond to email, and use email functions such as calendar and meeting requests. Navigate the internet to find and download data. Learn to use various agency interagency-specific programs, such as WIMS, IROC, FIReS, Burn Portal, IQS, and WildCAD,
  • Teamwork -Focuses efforts on team goals; actively participates in team activities positively and constructively; willingly compromises with teammates to achieve goals; takes ownership of and supports team decisions; takes responsibility for doing own share of work; recognizes contributions of others; keeps supervisor and coworkers informed.
  • Willingness and Ability to work in a high-pressure environment, answering 40 radio/phone calls per day, under noisy conditions for extended periods without loss of concentration, sit for 4 or more hours per day, work overtime on short notice to assist in emergency operations and accept varying work schedules; maintain confidentiality at all times; work with and diffuse angry individuals; work individually, with no on-site supervisory direction; follow written and verbal instructions; to move or relocate objects weighing approximately 20 pounds with or without reasonable accommodation; travel in and out of state, staying overnight for up to 2 weeks.
  • Lead- Interview, recommend the hire, set expectations, coach and train, assign and direct work, and correct work of other dispatchers.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED Equivalent.
  • One or more seasons as a Wildland Fire Dispatcher 2; OR other dispatch experience, experience involving public contact or communications, switchboard operator, or wildland fire suppression experience.
  • Ability to resolve conflicts, write effectively, and communicate with diverse groups both internal and external.
  • 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 requests are followed.
  • DNR Core Competencies:
    • Personal Accountability
    • Value Others
    • Compassionate Communication
    • Inspire Others
    • Commitment to Excellence
Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:

  • The position is in a dispatch center. Work is performed in an office setting. Must be able to lift and maneuver office supplies (up to 25 lbs.) as needed, to conduct assigned tasks. Ability to work in a high-volume, fast-paced, and reactive environment.
  • The position is occasionally required to travel to agency meetings, workshops, etc. May also take fire assignments to other dispatch centers occasionally.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Qualified as an NWCG Initial Attack Dispatcher.
  • Qualified as an NWCG Expanded Dispatch Support Dispatcher.
  • Qualified as an NWCG Aircraft Dispatcher.
  • Two seasons as a Wildland Dispatcher 2.
  • Wildland Fire Suppression experience.
  • Fluency in multiple languages.

Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position. If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your experience relates to them, please contact us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. A note to potential candidates: Studies have shown that women, trans, non-binary, Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) are less likely to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet every qualification as described in a job description. We value diversity and inclusion in our organization, and we are looking for the best person for the job. Don’t hesitate to apply!

Supplemental Information

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

  • Apply online: at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).
  • Letter of interest: describing your specific qualifications to the position and position required, desired, and special requirements.
  • Resume: that details your experience and qualifications.
  • References: 3-5 professional references with current telephone numbers, to include your 2 most recent supervisors. You may attach a document, use the References text field in the online application, or include it with your resume.
  • Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (social security number, year of birth, etc.).
  • Complete all supplemental questions.
  • 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 those communications.

Questions? Please contact Kym Schoonover at Kym.schoonover@dnr.wa.gov/360-764-3018 or e-mail 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 that 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 may also be used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.

DNR does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Veterans wishing to claim Veteran’s preference please attach a copy of your DD-214, NGB-22, or other verification of military service. Please black out your social security number prior to attaching it. 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 of 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. That's 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, are entitled to three (3) 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 12-31-2022

01

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

02

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

03

Do you have a high school diploma or GED Equivalent?

  • Yes
  • No

04

Do you have one or more seasons as a Wildland Fire Dispatcher 2; OR other dispatch experience, experience involving public contact or communications, switchboard operator, or wildland fire suppression experience?

  • Yes
  • No

05

Please describe what interests you in working in the Dispatch/Communication Center.

06

Please describe your experience in the Fire/Communications/911 Dispatching or Emergency Management. If you do not have this experience type N/A.

07

Please describe your experience training Team Members. If you do not have this experience type N/A.

08

Please describe how you manage stress within a work environment.

09

Do you now, or will you in the future, require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H-1B visa status, etc.) to work legally for our agency in the United States? DNR is not an E-Verify agency.

  • Yes
  • No
  • Unsure

10

Where did you originally hear about this job posting?

  • www.dnr.wa.gov
  • www.careers.wa.gov
  • WA WorkSource office or WorkSourceWA.com
  • Governmentjobs.com
  • Monster
  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter
  • College/university website/career fair
  • Handshake
  • Newspaper
  • Direct Email Notification
  • Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups (BRG)
  • Professional/Personal Network
  • Job Board
  • Job Fair
  • Zip Recruiter
  • Diversity Jobs
  • Facebook
  • Other (please specify below)

11

If you answered "other" to the previous question, please specify where you originally learned of this employment opportunity in the space below.

  • Required Question

Salary : $3,643 - $4,865

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