Resource Specialist I

Job Description

The Resource Specialist I will complete the proper training the position requirements include meeting NWCG FFII qualifications, meet or exceed on performance evaluations, obtaining a Texas Class A CDL, be proficient in the use of TFS email, web page, and single sign on programs, The Resource Specialist I will complete all monthly reporting requirements of position, attend all required training, assist with the delivery of Forest Resource Protection programs to local communities, operate and maintain wildland fire suppression equipment and respond to wildland fires and other all-hazard incidents. They will conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times.

Responsibilities:
-Serve as a wildland firefighter and/or emergency responder on a statewide basis. Duties will include operation of heavy fire fighting equipment, use of hand fire fighting tools, and perform ground reconnaissance on wildfires. Employee must meet and annually maintain a physical fitness standard which includes successfully completing a 2-mile walk carrying a 25 pound pack in 30 minutes or less and obtain required NWCG training and Red Card Certification. Employee will carry a communication device to facilitate 24-hour availability. Will be required to respond to dispatcher within 30 minutes of receiving an emergency page, notification, or alert.

-Assist Regional Fire Coordinator with the delivery of the Capacity Building programs to VFDs and municipal fire departments. Support the development and delivery of the programs within TFS and with other government agencies. These programs include: VFD assistance, insurance, and vehicle liability risk pool; Fire Safe; FEPP; VFA cost shares; Helping Hands; training; fire risk assessment; aviation; and TICC.

-Assist in the delivery of programs developed by the Regional Fire Coordinators, Fire Prevention Specialists, Urban Interface Specialists, and Prescribed Burning Specialist. Support the Fire Risk Assessment Coordinator with data collection.

-Maintain assigned state vehicle, transport/dozers and other emergency equipment in a professional state of readiness.

-Provide support for Forest Resource Development programs as requested and support other TFS programs as requested.

-Manage and account for TFS credit cards in accordance with applicable laws, policies, rules, procedures and guidelines.

-Serve on TFS Incident Management Team, Fire Prevention Teams, and Wildland Urban Interface Mitigation Teams. (percent of time is dependent on severity and frequency of fire seasons)

-Within 90 days of hire must establish a primary residency within 30 minutes travel time of home base to insure timely response for duty as directed.

-Working Conditions: May require exposure to harsh environmental conditions such as wind, sunlight, rain and temperature extremes. May require walking long distances, standing for extended periods, twisting, bending, reaching and kneeling. May require lifting and carrying heavy objects. May require driving motor vehicles for long distances. May require operating computers with monitors for extended periods of time.

-Other duties as assigned.

Benefits: Texas A&M University System strives to support the health and wellness needs of our diverse workforce. Texas A&M Forest Service offers a competitive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance, retirement benefits, paid time off and health and lifestyle programs. Some additional benefits include the ability to accrue compensatory time off, overtime on emergency response and a physical fitness incentive of $ for passing the arduous test (walk three miles wearing a 45-pound pack in 45 minutes or less) each year.

Education and Experience:
Required Education: High school graduate or equivalent.

Preferred Education: Graduate with a 2 year natural resources related technical degree
Required Experience: One or more years general work experience.

Preferred Experience: One or more years of experience with a VFD, municipal fire dept., wildland fire agency, or wildland fire suppression. Experience as an instructor.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Required Knowledge: Water delivery systems. PC-based programs and software.
Required Ability: Multi-task and work cooperatively with others.

Preferred Ability: Ability to utilize GIS/GPS programs, wildland fire hand tools, personal protective equipment, and wildland fire engines.

Registrations, Certifications, and Licenses:
Required: Commercial drivers license or ability to obtain one within 60 days of date of hire.

Preferred: NWCG firefighter and prevention training or equivalent. FFT-1 under NWCG, TPL-1, or Dozer Operator, TCFP or SFFMA Basic Firefighter or higher certification.

Other Requirements:
Required: Response to wildland fires. Meet and maintain a moderate physical fitness standard

Preferred: Meet and maintain an arduous physical fitness standard.