East Zone Fire Operations District Manager, WMS1
Apply NowCompany: State of Washington
Location: Colville, WA 99114
Description:
Salary: $82,452.00 - $96,156.00 Annually
Location : Stevens County - Colville, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2025-2-3070-01509
Department: Dept. of Natural Resources
Opening Date: 02/25/2025
Closing Date: 3/11/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
East Zone Fire Operations District Manager, WMS1Recruitment #2025-1-3070
Full-time, WMS1, Non-represented positionLocation: Northeast Region- Colville, WA
Work Hour flexibility may be available and considered Relocation Compensation may be available and considered
Salary: $82,452.00 - $96,156.00 Annually
To allow for growth and salary progression the full salary range is: $82,452.00 - $101,208.00 Annually
Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Northeast Region. If you love working in a fast-paced environment, enjoy assisting the public, and have a proven ability to work as part of a diverse, and widespread team, then this opportunity might be for you! The Department of Natural Resources, Northeast Region is looking for a Fire Operations District Manager to join and help lead the East Zone Fire program.
The East Zone is the busiest Wildland Fire Management Zone of Operations in Washington State. As the East Zone Fire Operations District Manager, you will organize pre-season preparedness activities and lead a great team in providing suppression on all DNR-protected lands in Pend Oreille, Stevens, Spokane, northern Lincoln County, and eastern Ferry County.
The successful candidate must foster positive working relationships amongst the other region wildland fire managers, wildland fire staff, region office staff, dispatch staff, state lands staff, tribal fire partners, fire district staff, and state and federal agency partners. The opportunity to collaborate with other fire professionals will provide you with exposure to a variety of learning opportunities, agency operations, and the ability to build cohesive relationships across the state of Washington. You will experience a different level of collaboration within the DNR that will offer a lifetime worth of skills for your future career path.
Duties
Responsibilities:
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
Supplemental Information
Application Requirements:
Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the 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:
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
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 NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email
Check us out on: | | | | |
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 (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 (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 , 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
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 bachelor's degree in a Natural Resource field AND three years of professional fire suppression experience?OR a combination of education and/or experience in Natural Resources and Fire Suppression equivalent to seven years?
04
Do you have supervisory experience including the following: Employee recruitment and selection AND Planning and assigning work, including setting performance standards and expectations AND Evaluating and documenting performance AND Performance feedback and coaching AND Training and development planning AND Employee motivation and performance-based recognition AND Corrective action tools and strategies?
05
Are you qualified as a Task Force Leader or a higher NWCG position?
06
Do you have experience in the principles, methods, and techniques of public administration, business administration, budgeting, economics, and management?
07
Do you have a valid unrestricted driver's license and at least two years of driving experience?
08
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.
09
Where did you originally hear about this job posting?
10
If you answered "other" to the previous question, please specify where you originally learned of this employment opportunity in the space below.
Required Question
Location : Stevens County - Colville, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Number: 2025-2-3070-01509
Department: Dept. of Natural Resources
Opening Date: 02/25/2025
Closing Date: 3/11/2025 11:59 PM Pacific
Description
East Zone Fire Operations District Manager, WMS1Recruitment #2025-1-3070
Full-time, WMS1, Non-represented positionLocation: Northeast Region- Colville, WA
Work Hour flexibility may be available and considered Relocation Compensation may be available and considered
Salary: $82,452.00 - $96,156.00 Annually
To allow for growth and salary progression the full salary range is: $82,452.00 - $101,208.00 Annually
Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Northeast Region. If you love working in a fast-paced environment, enjoy assisting the public, and have a proven ability to work as part of a diverse, and widespread team, then this opportunity might be for you! The Department of Natural Resources, Northeast Region is looking for a Fire Operations District Manager to join and help lead the East Zone Fire program.
The East Zone is the busiest Wildland Fire Management Zone of Operations in Washington State. As the East Zone Fire Operations District Manager, you will organize pre-season preparedness activities and lead a great team in providing suppression on all DNR-protected lands in Pend Oreille, Stevens, Spokane, northern Lincoln County, and eastern Ferry County.
The successful candidate must foster positive working relationships amongst the other region wildland fire managers, wildland fire staff, region office staff, dispatch staff, state lands staff, tribal fire partners, fire district staff, and state and federal agency partners. The opportunity to collaborate with other fire professionals will provide you with exposure to a variety of learning opportunities, agency operations, and the ability to build cohesive relationships across the state of Washington. You will experience a different level of collaboration within the DNR that will offer a lifetime worth of skills for your future career path.
Duties
Responsibilities:
- Manage wildland fire suppression activities on state and private lands within the eastern portion of the Northeast Region.
- Wildland fire cost recovery to include contacting and negotiating with the responsible parties, representing the DNR in mediation, and in legal proceedings.
- Ensures appropriate and optimum use of the organization's resources.
- Works collaboratively with the Northeast Region Leadership team to achieve common goals and positive results.
- Supports effective and positive communication internally as well as externally with partners.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
- A bachelor's degree in a Natural Resource field AND three years of professional fire suppression experience;
OR a combination of education and/or experience in Natural Resources and Fire Suppression equivalent to seven years. - Supervisory experience including the following:
- Employee recruitment and selection
- Planning and assigning work, including setting performance standards and expectations
- Evaluating and documenting performance
- Performance feedback and coaching
- Training and development planning
- Employee motivation and performance-based recognition
- Corrective action tools and strategies
- Qualified as a Task Force Leader or higher NWCG position.
- Must annually pass the Work Capacity Test at the level required to maintain the relevant qualification per NWCG PMS 310-1.
- Experience in the principles, methods, and techniques of public administration, business administration, budgeting, economics, and management.
- Leadership characteristics and principles of leadership.
- Verbal and written communication skills.
- Negotiation with diverse interest groups, such as other agencies, tribes, environmental groups, private industry, local government, media, and the general public.
- Ability to read and interpret forest protection regulations and rules.
- Knowledge of wildfire qualification training and certification requirements.
- Position Specific Competencies:
- Employ critical thinking in all duties.
- Demonstrate situational awareness when making decisions.
- Function with political astuteness and interact effectively with a diverse set of partners including natural resource managers, politicians, scientists, private landowners, environmental groups, neighbors, tribes, and agency representatives.
- Develop and maintain relationships with a diverse group of partners, fostering support for agency initiatives and programs.
- Value and champion the contributions a diverse workforce makes to the business goals of the agency. Model diversity principles in day-to-day work.
- DNR Core Competencies:
- Personal Accountability
- Value Others
- Compassionate Communication
- Inspire Others
- Commitment to Excellence
- The position's assigned duty station may be determined based on where the incumbent resides. Teleworking from home is an option for this position but the employee must reside within the East Zone of Northeast Region for quick fire response. Work is performed 50% in an office/telework setting and 50% in the field. While in an office/telework setting, the position does not come in contact with any hazardous chemicals other than standard surface cleaners and adhesives. While in a field setting, the position may come into occasional contact with motor fuels, lubricants, paint solvents, and pesticides. Also, see the Task Hazard Analysis (THA) in the position's file.
- Frequent travel will be required for periods of up to 21 days.
- A valid unrestricted driver's license and have two years of driving experience. 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.
- A qualified Type 3 Incident Commander or Division Supervisor Line Rating.
- Ability to manage budgets.
- Experience making public presentations.
- Working knowledge of the Incident Command System.
- NWCG Type 3 IC or Division Supervisor Fire Qualifications and Experience
Supplemental Information
Application Requirements:
- 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: at least three professional references with current telephone numbers- 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 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.
Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the 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.
- 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,
- 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 for more 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
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 NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email
Check us out on: | | | | |
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 (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 (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 , 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
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 bachelor's degree in a Natural Resource field AND three years of professional fire suppression experience?OR a combination of education and/or experience in Natural Resources and Fire Suppression equivalent to seven years?
- Yes
- No
04
Do you have supervisory experience including the following: Employee recruitment and selection AND Planning and assigning work, including setting performance standards and expectations AND Evaluating and documenting performance AND Performance feedback and coaching AND Training and development planning AND Employee motivation and performance-based recognition AND Corrective action tools and strategies?
- Yes
- No
05
Are you qualified as a Task Force Leader or a higher NWCG position?
- Yes
- No
06
Do you have experience in the principles, methods, and techniques of public administration, business administration, budgeting, economics, and management?
- Yes
- No
07
Do you have a valid unrestricted driver's license and at least two years of driving experience?
- Yes
- No
08
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
09
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
- 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
- Other (please specify below)
10
If you answered "other" to the previous question, please specify where you originally learned of this employment opportunity in the space below.
Required Question