Wildland Firefighter (Regional Fixed-Wing Program Manager)

In 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-13: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (GW-12) in the federal service. Examples of specialized experience are: Advising and consulting with employees, contractors and cooperators to assist in the evaluation and implementation of proposed complex regulatory changes in aviation management; developing and implementing all policies, standards, and procedures to guide and control the whole range of complex, often unique and hazardous aviation activities supporting resource management and protection programs; and/or serving as a qualified technical investigator on aviation accident investigations, reviews, and follows-up on actions. 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. To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement. This position is located in a USDA Forest Service Unit. The incumbent is responsible for developing and recommending aviation objectives, plans, policies, standards, and procedures for airtanker, aerial supervision, and aircraft coordination programs. See ADDITIONAL INFORMATION section for Regional Contacts.

Position Details

• Job Title: Wildland Firefighter (Regional Fixed-Wing Program Manager)
• Company / Organisation: Forest Service
• Location: Missoula, Montana
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Field / Industry: Project Management
• Work Arrangement: On-site or hybrid - Missoula, Montana

About This Opportunity

This full-time opportunity at Forest Service is an excellent opening for experienced professionals in the field of project management and operations. The role is structured around an on-site or hybrid environment based in Missoula, Montana and is designed for candidates who are ready to make a meaningful contribution from the moment they join.

Based in Missoula, Montana, this role offers the opportunity to collaborate closely with a local team in a structured professional environment. Candidates currently based in the area or open to relocation are strongly encouraged to apply.

Whether you are an established practitioner in project management and operations or a highly skilled professional looking for your next challenge, this Wildland Firefighter (Regional Fixed-Wing Program Manager) role offers the platform to apply your expertise in a real-world, results-oriented environment. Forest Service is looking for a candidate who can hit the ground running and add genuine value to the team.

Who Should Apply

This role is ideal for candidates who have a solid background in project management and operations and a demonstrable track record of delivering high-quality results. You should possess structured thinking, stakeholder management, risk awareness, and the ability to drive projects to completion on time and within scope. Experience working with project management software, collaboration platforms, and reporting dashboards will be an advantage, though a commitment to continuous learning and professional development is equally valued.

Beyond technical or domain expertise, Forest Service is looking for someone who communicates clearly, collaborates effectively with colleagues and stakeholders, and takes ownership of their work from start to finish. If you thrive in a professional environment and are passionate about the opportunity to deliver projects efficiently, on schedule, and within budget while exceeding stakeholder expectations, we encourage you to apply.

Key Competencies for This Role

Successful candidates for the Wildland Firefighter (Regional Fixed-Wing Program Manager) position at Forest Service will typically demonstrate the following core competencies:

• Domain expertise - a strong foundation of knowledge and hands-on experience in project management and operations
• Problem-solving ability - the capacity to identify challenges, think critically, and implement practical solutions efficiently
• Communication skills - clear and professional communication with colleagues, stakeholders, and partners at all levels
• Self-management - strong time management and the ability to prioritise a varied workload while meeting deadlines
• Team collaboration - a collaborative and supportive approach to working alongside colleagues across departments or locations
• Adaptability - the ability to respond positively to change and thrive in a dynamic, evolving work environment

How to Apply

To apply for this Wildland Firefighter (Regional Fixed-Wing Program Manager) position at Forest Service, click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be taken directly to the official application page where you can complete and submit your application.

Before applying, please ensure that your CV or résumé is fully up to date and clearly highlights your experience and accomplishments in project management and operations. If a cover letter is included or requested, tailor it specifically to this role and explain how your background, skills, and goals align with what Forest Service is looking for in a Wildland Firefighter (Regional Fixed-Wing Program Manager).

All applications for this role are processed directly by Forest Service. Career Nest facilitates the job discovery process and does not pre-screen or forward applications on behalf of employers. There are no fees for job seekers at any stage of the application process.

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