Leading Fire Safety: Careers as a National Fire Danger Rating System Program Manager
Protecting the nation's 193 million acres of forest land is a monumental task that requires high-level coordination, cutting-edge technology, and a deep understanding of fire ecology. The USDA Forest Service is currently looking for an expert to serve as a National Fire Danger Rating System (NFDRS) Program Manager. This leadership position is vital for shaping how the United States approaches wildland fire management on an interagency scale.
Job Responsibilities
As an NFDRS Program Manager, your responsibilities include:
- National Leadership: Providing oversight and program management for national fire danger programs.
- Technology Integration: Bridging the gap between emerging science and practical application to improve fire management tools.
- Analytical Oversight: Managing complex analytical tools for interagency planning.
- Interagency Collaboration: Working with tribal, state, and private partners to reach agreements on contentious resource and funding issues.
Requirements
This position requires candidates to meet high standards of professional competence. You must have prior wildland firefighting experience to qualify for this secondary firefighter position. Applicants must also be U.S. citizens and able to pass rigorous background and drug screenings.
Comparison Table: Qualifications
| Level | Experience Required |
|---|---|
| GW-12 | 1 Year specialized experience at GW-11 level |
| GW-13 | 1 Year specialized experience at GW-12 level |
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is $97,564 to $146,671 per year, depending on the duty location and specific qualifications. Locality pay applies.
Benefits
Employees of the Forest Service enjoy comprehensive federal benefits, including:
- Robust health and retirement plans.
- Paid leave and federal holidays.
- Potential recruitment or relocation incentives.
Application Tips
- Resume Management: Keep your resume strictly under two pages to avoid immediate disqualification.
- Verification: Double-check that all uploaded documents in the agency portal are clear and readable.
- Early Submission: Don't wait for the final hour to submit your application package.
This role is an exceptional opportunity for a fire management professional to influence national policy and safety. If you possess the experience and leadership drive, consider applying today.
Why This National Fire Danger Rating System Program Manager Job Matters
Protect our nation's wildlands by leading the strategic evolution of the National Fire Danger Rating System within the USDA Forest Service.
National Fire Danger Rating System Program Manager Job Overview
The USDA Forest Service is seeking a dedicated and experienced professional to serve as a National Fire Danger Rating System (NFDRS) Program Manager. Based within the Fire and Aviation Management organization, this role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of interagency fire management, technology, and risk assessment at a national level. The incumbent will provide critical leadership, coordinate technical resources, and integrate emerging science into fire danger protocols.
Requirements for National Fire Danger Rating System Program Manager
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must be 18 years of age.
- Prior wildland firefighting experience is mandatory for this secondary firefighter position.
- Ability to pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug test and participate in random testing.
- Willingness to live and work in potentially remote or unpredictable environments.
Preferred Qualifications for National Fire Danger Rating System Program Manager
- One year of specialized experience at the GW-12 level (for GW-13 consideration).
- Expertise in fire management planning and ecological fire analysis.
- Proven capability to coordinate complex interagency fire operations.
- Experience in the application of geospatial information technology in fire management.
- Knowledge of fuel treatment methods and smoke management strategies.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits (CSRS/FERS)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
- ✓Opportunities for professional career development
💡 How to Apply National Fire Danger Rating System Program Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for National Fire Danger Rating System Program Manager Job
- Read the full announcement details on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Gather academic transcripts if qualifying based on education.
- Click 'Apply' to initiate the assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents in an accepted format (e.g., PDF, TXT).
- Submit your complete application before 11:59 p.m. ET on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly highlights relevant work experience, including hours worked per week and specific dates.
- Check for document formatting constraints; avoid Adobe Portfolio files.
- Verify that your uploaded documents have successfully transferred into the Agency staffing system.
- Apply well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Be concise; applications exceeding the two-page resume limit will be disqualified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work remotely?
This position is listed as location negotiable after selection, but it is not a fully remote role. Candidates should expect to work in a physical office setting once a duty station is determined.
What happens after I submit my application?
Your application will be reviewed for eligibility and qualifications. If you are qualified, you will be referred to the selecting official for potential interview.
Is prior firefighting experience required?
Yes, this is a secondary firefighter position requiring verified wildland firefighting history.
What is the promotion potential?
The position has a promotion potential to the GW-13 level.
Job from Forest Service
The Forest Service, a branch of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, manages a vast network of forests and grasslands. Their mission goes beyond timber and recreation; it involves comprehensive research, environmental conservation, and proactive fire management to ensure public safety and ecological health.