Lead the Future of Wildland Fire Management
The USDA Forest Service is looking for a seasoned executive to fill the position of Deputy Chief Officer for Safety & Fire Operations. As the nation faces increasing challenges regarding wildland fire management and safety, the Forest Service remains committed to identifying leaders who can navigate complex interagency landscapes and implement innovative, data-driven solutions. This role is a unique opportunity to shape national policy and protect our nation’s invaluable natural resources.
Job Responsibilities
The Deputy Chief Officer is responsible for:
- Providing national policy direction for fire suppression and safety.
- Directing large, geographically distributed teams across multiple disciplines.
- Negotiating interagency agreements to strengthen national preparedness.
- Advising the Chief Fire and Safety Officer on budget planning and policy development.
- Representing the agency in national and global forums.
Requirements
This is a high-level executive appointment. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the following:
- Executive Core Qualifications (ECQ): Leading People, Leading Change, Results Driven, Business Acumen, and Building Coalitions.
- Technical Qualifications (TQ): Specific mastery of wildland fire management operations and high-level stakeholder engagement.
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Resume Limit | Exactly 2 pages |
| Security Clearance | Top Secret |
| Drug Test | Required |
| Probationary Period | 1 Year |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $204,122 to $216,010 per year, commensurate with experience and organizational tier levels. SES roles also provide opportunities for performance-based awards and executive bonuses.
Benefits
Employees enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and flexible work opportunities. The agency values work-life balance and supports executive development through continuous learning initiatives.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your 2-page resume specifically addresses the five ECQs and the required technical qualifications. Use clear, outcome-based language that highlights your accomplishments. Do not attach generic cover letters or separate narrative documents; follow the formatting guidelines (0.8-inch margins, 11-point font) precisely.
Serving as the Deputy Chief Officer for Safety & Fire Operations is a chance to leave a lasting impact on how America manages its wildland fire safety. If you have the executive experience, strategic vision, and commitment to public service, we encourage you to apply.
Why This Deputy Chief Officer Safety & Fire Operations Job Matters
Lead the future of wildland fire management and safety with the USDA Forest Service at the executive level.
Deputy Chief Officer Safety & Fire Operations Job Overview
The USDA Forest Service is seeking a visionary leader to serve as Deputy Chief Officer for Safety & Fire Operations. This critical Senior Executive Service (SES) role provides national policy direction, strategic frameworks, and oversight for fire suppression and agency-wide safety standards. This is a high-stakes leadership position requiring a blend of operational expertise and executive acumen to influence national resilience and organizational performance.
Requirements for Deputy Chief Officer Safety & Fire Operations
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Submission of a concise 2-page resume highlighting Executive Core Qualifications (ECQ) and Technical Qualifications (TQ).
- Evidence of broad executive skills, including fiscal responsibility and resource management.
- Must pass a drug test.
- Must be able to obtain/maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Successful completion of a one-year probationary period upon appointment.
- Commitment to the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law.
Preferred Qualifications for Deputy Chief Officer Safety & Fire Operations
- Demonstrated history of successful interagency collaboration and negotiation with senior government officials.
- Proven experience in developing national-level fire management policies and strategic frameworks.
- Certified by a Qualifications Review Board (QRB) or completion of an OPM-approved SES Candidate Development Program.
- Strong background in high-accountability organizational leadership and culture transformation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Senior Executive Service compensation structure.
- ✓Eligibility for performance-based bonuses and awards.
- ✓Opportunity for professional growth within the Department of Agriculture.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package.
- ✓Support for telework and flexible work arrangements where applicable.
💡 How to Apply Deputy Chief Officer Safety & Fire Operations Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Deputy Chief Officer Safety & Fire Operations Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a 2-page, narrative-free resume that integrates your ECQs and TQs.
- Ensure resume margins are 0.8 inches and font size is at least 11-point.
- Click 'Apply Online' on the official USAJOBS platform.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Attach supporting documents like SF-50s or QRB certifications.
- Monitor application status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- The 2-page limit for your resume is strictly enforced; entries exceeding this will not be reviewed beyond page 2.
- Avoid submitting separate narrative statements for ECQs; embed these accomplishments directly into your resume.
- Spell out all acronyms during their first use in your application documents.
- Verify that your uploaded documents transfer correctly to the agency's staffing system.
- Ensure all PII (Social Security Numbers, DOB) is redacted from your uploaded documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to submit separate narrative statements for ECQs?
No. The application is resume-only. You must embed evidence of your Executive Core Qualifications and Technical Qualifications directly into your 2-page resume.
What happens if my resume exceeds 2 pages?
The review board will not review any content beyond the second page, which may lead to disqualification.
Is a security clearance required for this position?
Yes, this position is designated as Critical-Sensitive and requires a Top Secret security clearance.
What is the 'resume-only' application process?
It means you must weave your ECQ and TQ evidence directly into your resume rather than submitting separate essays.
Can I apply if I am not currently an SES member?
Yes, the position is open to the public; however, successful candidates must undergo a Qualifications Review Board (QRB) certification.
Job from Forest Service
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service manages 193 million acres of National Forests and Grasslands. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the Nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. As a member of the Senior Executive Service (SES), you will lead the transformation of government operations while upholding the constitutional principles that guide our public service.