About this role
Job SummaryThe position is located on a USDA Forest Service Unit within the Northern Region, Region 1. The UAS Crewmembers are responsible for directing UAS operations for the Forest Service in the context of wildland fire management. The UAS Crewmembers are responsible for directing UAS operations for the Forest Service in the context of wildland fire management. For additional information regarding this position, contact Tiffany Counts at [email protected].
QualificationsIn order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards. Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Specialized Experience Requirement: For the GW-07: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-05) in the Federal service. Examples of specialized experience include: Supported fire management operations by gathering fuel-treatment data, analyzing Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) imagery to identify emerging risk areas, and provided UAS-based detection of fire threats and containment-line conditions. Conducted flights and operated aircraft in order to prepare and communicate critical intelligence to ground and aerial resources to accelerate suppression efforts. Assisted with managing property, equipment, supplies, and logistical provisions to maintain fire readiness and support effective wildfire response; performed routine wildland fire management and prescribed burn operations, and participated in wildland fire suppression efforts. Selective Placement Factors: Applicant must possess a current and valid FAA remote Pilot Certificate. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a secondary firefighter position under 5 USC 8336 (CSRS) and 8412(d) (FERS). Prior wildland firefighting experience is required. There is no age limit for entry into secondary positions. Firefighter retirement coverage of the incumbent depends upon his or her individual work history. WORK CAPACITY TEST (WCT) for Wildland Firefighters: This position participates in wildland firefighting activities. Based on the type of work performed, TAKING and PASSING the WCT at the ARDUOUS level is a condition of employment. To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.
Major DutiesDuties listed are at full performance grade GS-07 level.Serves as a highly trained and skilled crewmember of a UAS module and provides logistical and operational self-sufficiency.Performs various aviation and technical functions in areas of ignitions, infrared interpretation, suppression, prescribed fire implementation and monitoring support, hazardous fuels reduction, and fire effects monitoring.Conducts aerial surveys and assessments of prescribed fire and fuels projects. Primarily uses air operation firefighting methods in initial attack, fire line construction, and mop-up activities.Participates with the supervisor to analyze UAS data in conjunction with fire/fuels plans to identify future problem areas. Establishes methodology in conjunction with cooperators to eliminate fire potential and risk factors.Operates aircraft under adverse conditions, such as executing takeoffs and landings in rough terrain, on mountain slopes, in timbered environments, in proximity to other fire aviation assets, and in conditions with limited visibility.Participates in the maintenance of UAS aircraft and the shipping, receiving, and management of hazardous materials. Inspects, tests, and documents the UAS airworthiness and equipment lifecycle, including Preventive Maintenance (PM) schedules.RequirementsMust be a U.S. Citizen or National. Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service or exempt. Subject to satisfactory adjudication of background investigation and/or fingerprint check. Per Public Law 104-134 all Federal employees are required to have federal payments made by direct deposit to their financial institution. Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit E-Verify. Must be 18 years of age. This is a drug testing designated position. You will be subject to pre-employment and random drug testing. Appointment is based on a negative result. This announcement constitutes 30 days advance notice. Must pass the Work Capacity Test for certain Interagency Fire Program Management or Fire Program Management positions. Secondary Coverage: Prior wildland firefighting experience is required. Willing to live/work in remote locations (volatile/unpredictable). Some Fire positions may have Conditions of Employment such as: a valid state driver's license; a commercial driver's license (CDL); pre-appointment and random drug testing; or a physical or medical examination. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your probationary period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.