Deputy Division Manager, Wildland Fire Management Division (WMS3)

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Company: State of Washington

Location: Olympia, WA 98501

Description:

Salary : $104,772.00 - $122,196.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: 2025-3-A430-02176
Department: Dept. of Natural Resources
Opening Date: 03/25/2025
Closing Date: 4/3/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

Description
Deputy Division Manager, Wildland Fire Management DivisionRecruitment #2025-3-A430
Full-time, Washington Management Service (WMS3), Non-represented position
Location: Olympia, WA.
Work Hours and Partial Telework flexibility may be available and considered
Relocation Compensation may be available and considered Salary: $104,772.00 - $122,196.00 Annually
To allow for growth and salary progression, the full salary range is: $104,772.00 - $128,628.00 Annually

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 4/1/25. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
Are you interested in a career that allows you to provide leadership in wildland fire at the state and National levels? The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is looking for a Deputy Division Manager in the Wildland Fire Management Division (WFMD). The WFMD is responsible for fire prevention, preparedness, and suppression, including aviation, on 13 million acres of state and private forestland, for protection of air quality through regulation of silvicultural burning and smoke management, for community preparedness, and the Department of Corrections (DOC) correction camps program which trains and provides management and oversight to incarcerated individuals who support and suppress wildland fire.

To be successful in this position, you will need outstanding skills working with people and developing relationships both internally and externally. This position will consistently represent the agency when working with partners, the general public, and interacting with the media.
Duties

Responsibilities:
This position assists with managing the Department's Wildland Fire Management Division. Directly supervising the Operations Assistant Division Manager and Aviation Assistant Division Manager, this position manages two large sub-divisions of the Wildland Fire Management Division. The position represents the Department on a variety of interagency and cooperator groups, including the Pacific Northwest Wildfire Coordinating Group (PNWCG), the NW Multiagency Coordinating Group (NW MAC), the Fire Defense Committee (FDC), the Western States Fire Managers (WSFM), and participates on various Department advisory groups including the Wildfire (WFAC), Forest Health (FHAC), and Utility Wildland Fire Prevention (UWFPAC) Advisory Committees.
Qualifications

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Forestry or Natural Resources with an emphasis in Wildland Fire Management, Forest Management, Forest Ecology, Watershed Management, and/or other natural resource management specialty/focus;
    OR a combination of relevant experience and/or education.
  • 10 years or more of experience and knowledge of wildland fire management within the United States, including rules, laws, principles, and practices such as:
    • State and federal laws, budgets, and policies applicable to fire protection and suppression, smoke management, and forest stewardship.
    • Interstate Compacts and State-to-State Agreements.
    • Federal program structures and budgeting processes, including the National Forest System, State and Private Forestry Cooperative Programs, and hazardous fuels programs.
    • Emergency management principles and the roles federal, state, and local organizations play in preparing for and managing emergencies.
    • Various interest groups and partners affect each of the Division's programs.
    • The role regulatory programs play in Wildfire.
  • Knowledge of public sector management, including planning, organizing, directing, budgeting, policy development, legislative process, and personnel management.
  • Successful record of achievement in supporting executive and organizational decision-making.
  • Demonstrated ability of fiscal responsibility and accountability through budget design and management.
  • Ability to develop, maintain, and strengthen interior and exterior partnerships.
  • Experience working with diverse and competing interest groups to develop solutions and resolve conflicts around high-profile projects or issues.
  • Advanced managerial knowledge and skills, superior leadership and collaboration skills, including the ability to listen, understand, facilitate, motivate, negotiate, and work skillfully in those settings to support a wide array of interests and objectives.
  • Experienced in strategically developing and managing complex projects that meet multiple objectives, and seeing those projects from inception to completion.
  • Make effective public presentations to both large and small audiences.
  • Experience working with MS Office products.
  • Knowledge of various interest groups and partners affecting each of the Division's programs.
  • Committed to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.
  • Performs assigned duties in a manner consistent with applicable laws, regulations, and public records retention.
  • DNR Core Competencies:
    • Personal Accountability
    • Value Others
    • Compassionate Communication
    • Inspire Others
    • Commitment to Excellence
Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:
  • The work setting is principally within the Natural Resources Building office environment and/or remote work environments.
  • Generally, within the state, up to two times per month. Occasional travel within the US for national wildland fire meetings or trainings.
  • A valid, unrestricted driver's license and 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.
Desired Qualifications:
  • Bachelor of Science, preferably in a field related to DNR's core mission (forestry, business, emergency management, or other suitable equivalent). Preferred wildland fire qualifications include experience with line operations and leadership equivalent to a minimum of Incident Commander, Type 3.
  • Recognized experience of at least 10 years leading a dynamic, tactically oriented organization consisting of at least 50 members as an equivalent.
  • Must operate with initiative at strategic levels within the department and the framework of wildland fire and emergency response.
  • Demonstrates working knowledge of budget applications and fiscal management.
  • Maintains an understanding of bargaining agreements and represented employee contracts.
  • Applies strong operations-related project management skills in all facets of serving as a strategic leader in a multifaceted organization such as the DNR/WFMD.

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 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:
  • Apply online: at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).
  • Letter of interest: describing your specific qualifications for the position and the 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 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 Russ Lane at /360-480-9657 or e-mail us at

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.
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,
  • 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.
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

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 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 NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email

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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 Forestry or Natural Resources with an emphasis in Wildland Fire Management, Forest Management, Forest Ecology, Watershed Management, and/or other natural resource management specialty/focus?OR a combination of relevant experience and/or education?
  • Yes
  • No

04

Do you have experience working with diverse and competing interest groups to develop solutions and resolve conflicts around high-profile projects or issues?
  • Yes
  • No

05

Do you have 10 years or more of experience and knowledge of wildland fire management within the United States, including rules, laws, principles, and practices such as:o State and federal laws, budgets, and policies applicable to fire protection and suppression, smoke management, and forest stewardship;o Interstate Compacts and State-to-State Agreements;o Federal program structures and budgeting processes, including the National Forest System, State and Private Forestry Cooperative Programs, and hazardous fuels programs;o Emergency management principles and the roles federal, state, and local organizations play in preparing for and managing emergencies;o Various interest groups and partners affecting each of the Division's programs;o The role regulatory programs play in Wildfire?
  • Yes
  • No

06

Do you have demonstrated ability of fiscal responsibility and accountability through budget design and management?
  • Yes
  • No

07

Do you have experience in strategically developing and managing complex projects that meet multiple objectives and seeing those projects from inception to completion?
  • Yes
  • No

08

Do you have experience working with MS Office products?
  • Yes
  • No

09

Do you have a valid unrestricted driver's license and at least two years of driving experience?
  • Yes
  • No

10

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

11

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)

12

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

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