Spillman Unit AFMO, Wildland Fire Management Specialist (WFMSpec)

Filled
February 5, 2026
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Job Description

Position: Assistant Fire Management Officer (AFMO) / Wildland Fire Management Specialist
Location: South Puget Sound Region – Belfair, WA
Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent, Represented (WPEA)
Salary: $4,299 – $5,783 Monthly
Recruitment #: 2026-1-6573
Application Deadline: Ongoing; early submission recommended

About the Role

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking a dedicated professional to join the Spillman Unit as the Assistant Fire Management Officer. This role focuses on fire suppression, prevention, training, and community resiliency, supervising 2 permanent fire techs and 18 seasonal staff. The AFMO works closely with DNR staff, local fire departments, and federal agencies, promoting safety, leadership, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

  • Implement and maintain the Spillman Unit operations plan.
  • Supervise and develop permanent and seasonal fire staff.
  • Plan and execute annual fire training programs.
  • Coordinate and support Wildfire Ready Neighbors, Firewise, and Fire Adapted Community Programs.
  • Participate in wildland fire suppression, including serving as Incident Commander (Type 3, 4, 5).
  • Oversee equipment inventory and coordinate with partner agencies for mutual aid.
  • Manage fire prevention activities and regulatory compliance.
  • Review and prepare incident reports, narratives, and investigations.
  • Apply risk management principles in high-pressure situations.

Required Qualifications

  • NWCG Single Resource Boss qualification.
  • Incident Commander Type 5.
  • Supervisory experience, including fire line leadership.
  • Experience supporting fire program managers in operational planning.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
  • Ability to communicate effectively, foster teamwork, and create a positive work environment.
  • Commitment to safety, diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice.
  • Ability to traverse uneven terrain in all weather and meet NWCG arduous-level work capacity.
  • Valid driver’s license with at least two years of driving experience.

Desired Qualifications

  • NWCG Strike Team Leader or two Single Resource Boss qualifications.
  • Incident Commander Type 4.
  • Associate degree or higher in Fire Science, Natural Resource Management, or related field.
  • Strong skills in evaluating training needs, situational awareness, teamwork, and decision-making.
  • Commitment to continual learning and adapting to technology advancements.

Special Requirements

  • Assigned duty station: Belfair, WA.
  • Telework and flexible schedule may be considered.
  • Extensive fieldwork, including walking, climbing, and driving in various terrains.
  • Participation in wildland fire suppression assignments locally and out-of-region.

Benefits & Perks

  • Competitive state benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, sick leave, and vacation.
  • Work/life balance with partial telework flexibility.
  • Professional development and educational opportunities.
  • Eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
  • Opportunities to participate in wildland fire assignments.
  • Inclusive workplace with Employee Resource Groups for diversity, equity, and inclusion.