The PFT is supervised by the Prescribed Fire Coordinator and will work closely with Conservancy staff. The Conservancy will provide shared housing at the Niobrara Valley Preserve near Johnstown, NE.
The Prescribed Fire Technicians may assist on fire operations with federal, state, or private partners, or travel to other areas of the state or out-of-state to assist other TNC programs or partners on prescribed or wildland fires.
As part of the incumbent’s ongoing professional development, they will be responsible for keeping abreast of new burn techniques and equipment to enhance skills and maintain/grow professional fire certification credentials. In addition, they shall work to build and maintain relationships in the professional fire community and in the local community where the Conservancy works.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Assist with fireline construction, implementation of prescribed burns and mop-up activities. Maintain equipment and tools used on prescribed burns.
- Operate fire equipment, if qualified, including ignition devices, 4WD trucks, ATV’s, UTV’s, portable pumps, pump engines, port-a-tanks, tractors, backpack blowers, brush cutters, chain saws, hand tools, and GPS units.
- Perform fire preparations, including tractor mowing, tree cutting, chain saw work, raking, handline construction, boundary delineation, etc. Must have familiarity with the safe operation of equipment and off-road vehicles and must follow recommended safety guidelines and precautions specified for said work.
- Conduct routine preserve management work such as removal of invasive species, grassland management, ecological monitoring, fence construction and repair, and other related stewardship activities.
- Travel and work as a team member performing these tasks.
- Will perform other preserve management duties when conditions are not conducive to prescribed fire.
- Works in a high stress team environment.
- Works under close supervision.
- Ability to perform heavy physical work for extended and irregular periods in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.