NW Firewise Communities Specialist

The DNR is looking for one (1) NR Forestry Regional Specialist, located in Bemidji, MN. The Firewise Communities Specialist (FCS) position exists to develop and implement a regional Firewise Program as well as to collaborate in the development and delivery of a statewide Fire Prevention and Firewise Program.  This program’s goal is to empower local communities with the expertise to save lives and prevent avoidable property loss by providing local decision-makers, fire departments, and others with training, tools and start-up assistance to implement the program.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Collaborate with the state Firewise Team and Forestry Areas to develop and implement a comprehensive Firewise and Wildfire Prevention Program that offers training, materials, assistance and a consistent message to Minnesota communities and audiences.
• Provide administrative and technical oversight of the assigned program.
• Develop and implement a strategic and operational wildfire risk assessment process and tools for local communities to use in assessing local wildfire fuels and ignition risks.
• Develop, deliver and monitor regional work and spending plans.
• Assist participating communities in developing strategic plans to reduce wildfire risk in their communities and to integrate Firewise practices into the communities’ plans, policies, and procedures.
•  Assist in training and outreach efforts within the communities and the assigned Region.
• Prepare timely and appropriate reports
• Perform Region wildfire support duties within the scope of current credentials when necessary and dispatched Develop Regional program teams, and serve as an active member of statewide program teams       
• Monitor and support the work of Forestry Area Staff.
• Complete formal Division of Forestry classroom and field training sessions as assigned.

This position has a flexible work arrangement and may be eligible to telework on a part-time basis which is subject to change. If approved, the employee would be required to complete a telework agreement. This position will require reporting to the primary work location on a regular basis.