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Table of Contents

Section 1: Executive Summary ......................................................................... 1-3

Section 2: Project Overview Powerpoint ......................................................... 2-1

Section 3: Competencies/KSAs Review ........................................................... 3-1

Section 4: Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist KSAs – Proposed Revisions ..... 4-1

Section 5: Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialists KSAs Mapped to Courses....... 5-1

Section 6: Course List........................................................................................ 6-1

Section 7: Training Gap Analysis..................................................................... 7-1

Section 8: Career Development Guide............................................................. 8-1

Section 9: Personal Career Record .................................................................. 9-1

Section 10: Specialist Presentation................................................................. 10-1

Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist Development Project Report Section 1:

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Section 1: Executive Summary Background: Early in 2003, while preparing the 2005 budget proposal, the National Fuels Group identified the need for a dedicated rapid-paced fuels manager development program in order to keep up with the increased demand for the national interagency fuels program. The development effort needed to be tied to the Interagency Fire Program Management Qualifications Standards & Guide (IFPM) which described the competencies for the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist and 13 other fire positions. The competencies and Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities identified for the positions were developed about 1996. Since then, the new direction from the National Fire Plan has resulted in increased workload and many changes, such as more mechanical treatments, reporting requirements, and contracting. Agencies have hired many employees under the GS-455/462 and the GS-401 position descriptions. There have also been many transfers between agencies. Consistency in training and qualifications of Prescribed Fire and Fuels Specialists among the agencies was needed. Project Objectives: The first project objective was to identify qualifications, training opportunities, and requirements to increase Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA). The second was to reduce the time to reach full performance. The third was to develop career ladders that provide paths for technical and non-biological science employees to the GS-401 General Biology professional series. Product Outputs: The Workgroup reviewed the existing IFPM KSAs, recommended revision, and added additional KSAs based on current interagency position descriptions. The workgroup linked the KSAs to 156 courses available from the five federal land management agencies. A training gap analysis for three expertise levels (Working, Journey, and Expert) was conducted to identify where KSAs were not addressed by available courses. The workgroup developed two products to assist employees and supervisors in conducting career planning. The two tools are the Career Development Guide and the Personal Career Record. An employee’s development is heavily dependent on their type of education and experience. From that foundation, with knowledge of what is required for the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist, an employee and supervisor can layout a pathway for development. With this information, employees can realistically attain journey level in 8 years and expert level in 15 years. This shortens the timeline significantly from current anecdotal estimates of 12 years to reach journey level and 20 years to reach expert level. PowerPoint Presentation: The workgroup developed a detailed presentation that addresses the specifics of the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist Development Project.


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Recommendations: The workgroup recommends the following actions:

- Approve and distribute Career Development Guide and Personal Career Record to prospective and current Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialists and supervisors

- Make presentations to target audiences (PFTC, FUTA, JAC, etc.)

- Revise RX 300/3XX, S 234, and supervisory courses to include KSAs identified

in the training gap analysis.

- Develop two courses (working level and journey/expert level), based on Tables 2 and 3 in the training gap analysis, to cover KSAs not adequately addressed at the current time.

- Rewrite KSAs in task book language for IQCS system.

- Revise KSAs in the IFPM.

- Determine what role the two prescribed fire training centers should have in

implementing workgroup recommendations.


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Workgroup:

- Phil Range, Chairman, BLM, Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist, National Office, Boise, ID

- Kevin Walsh, NPS, Regional Fuels Specialist (SER), Atlanta, GA

- Hal Luedtke, BIA, Regional Fuels Specialist, Albuquerque, NM

- Brad Washa, BLM, State Prescribed Fire Specialist, Utah SO, Salt Lake City,

UT

- Rod Dykehouse, USFS, Fire Management Officer, Bridger-Teton NF, Jackson Hole, WY

- Gary Kemp, FWS, Regional Fuels Specialist, R5, MA

- Phil Weston, FWS, Director, Prescribed Fire Training Center, Tallahassee, FL

- Emily Irwin, USFS, Center Manager, Fire Use Training Academy, Albuquerque

- Al Olson, BLM, Training Specialist, National Interagency Fire Center, Boise, ID

- Wendell Welch, Distance Learning Specialist, National Interagency Fire Center,

Boise, ID

- Dr. Wiley Boland, Sr. Training Manager, General Dynamics, Orlando, FL

- Dr. Viki Bowen, Sr. Training Manager, General Dynamics, Orlando, FL


Section 2: Project Overview Powerpoint Slide 1

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Overview

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Slide 2

Prescribed Fire/Fuels Prescribed Fire/Fuels SpecialistSpecialist

Development ProjectDevelopment ProjectMarch 2005March 2005

This project was initiated in 2003 with preparation of the 2005 budget proposals and at the

request of the National Interagency Fuels and Fire Budget Groups.

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Slide 3

Sponsored bySponsored byThe National Interagency The National Interagency

Fuels GroupFuels Group

Project funded by BLM, BIA, NPS, and FWS and supported by the USFS.

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Slide 4

WorkgroupWorkgroup

• Phil Range - BLM• Kevin Walsh - NPS• Hal Luedtke - BIA• Brad Washa - BLM• Rod Dykehouse - FS• Gary Kemp - FWS

• Phil Weston - PFTC• Alan Olson - NIFC• Emily Irwin - FUTA• Wendell Welch - NIFC• General Dynamics

Dr. Wiley BolandDr. Viki Bowen

This group has worked on the project since it started. Gary Kemp transferred to NPS midway

through the project and was not replaced.

Phil Range, Chairman, BLM, Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist, National Office, Boise, ID

Kevin Walsh, NPS, Regional Fuels Specialist (SER), Atlanta, GA

Hal Luedtke, BIA, Regional Fuels Specialist, Albuquerque, NM

Brad Washa, BLM, State Prescribed Fire Specialist, Utah SO, Salt Lake City, UT

Rod Dykehouse, USFS, Fire Management Officer, Bridger-Teton NF, Jackson Hole, WY

Gary Kemp, FWS, Regional Fuels Specialist, R5, MA

Phil Weston, FWS, Director, Prescribed Fire Training Center, Tallahassee, FL

Emily Irwin, USFS, Center Manager, Fire Use Training Academy, Albuquerque

Al Olson, BLM, Training Specialist, National Interagency Fire Center, Boise, ID

Wendell Welch, Distance Learning Specialist, National Interagency Fire Center, Boise, ID

Dr. Wiley Boland, Sr. Training Manager, General Dynamics, Orlando, FL

Dr. Viki Bowen, Sr. Training Manager, General Dynamics, Orlando, FL

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Slide 5

Project ObjectivesProject Objectives• Identify Qualifications and Training

Opportunities and Requirements to:

– Increase Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA)

– Develop career ladders and provide paths for technical employees to professional series

– Reduce time to reach full performance

For the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist position, these objectives were identified in the 2005 udget Proposal.

that p the necessary

aining for all fire employees to accomplish them. This workgroup only dealt with specific

n employee’s development is heavily dependent on their type of education and experience. From that foundation, with knowledge of what is required for the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist, an employee and supervisor can layout a pathway for development. Identified KSAs guide the development. To reduce the time it takes it achieve full performance level, the supervisor and employee need to have all the information related to the position available to them. Because this was to be a long range planning tool, the terms “career guide” and “career record” were chosen rather than “task book.” When the employee and supervisor have all the requirements of the position, training and experience assignments can be focused and an IDP prepared. Career ladders can be developed when all the information is available. Knowing what training and education is required and available provides a path for the employee.

B The workgroup reviewed the Common and Specific Competencies in the Interagency Fire Program Management Qualifications Standards and Guide for the Prescribed Fire and Fuels Specialist. The Common Competencies apply to all positions, and the workgroup assumed the IFPM Implementation Team, agencies, education centers would develotrcompetencies, identifying those knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) needed for the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist position. A

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Slide 6

Workgroup MeetingsWorkgroup Meetings– October 21-23, 2003 Albuquerque, NM– January 27-29, 2004 Tallahassee, FL– February 23-25, 2004 Boise, ID– May 11-13, 2004 Orlando, FL– October 5-7, 2004 Boise, ID– January 25-27, 2005 Albuquerque, NM– February 23-24, 2005 Atlanta, GA– March 22-24, 2005 Tallahassee, FL

There have been eight meetings.

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Slide 7

PresentationsPresentations

• March 23, 2004 NIFC Fuels and Training• June 14, 2004 National Fuels Group• Jan. 10, 2005 PFTC Trainees• Jan. 27, 2005 Fire Use Modules, ABQ.• Feb. 10, 2005 PFTC Trainees• March 6, 2005 PFTC Trainees

Feedback from the presentation (approx 100 people of which 95% are technicians, 455 and 462

series) is:

Many of those who have several seasons or years behind them see great value in the tools

eveloped as part of this project. These employees have been exposed to the certification

process, which involves a combination of task books and training. They understand their

advancement will be dependent on their initiative and they are ready to use these tools. .

Those early in their careers, 1-2 years or just a few seasons, may not fully understand their

career potential and opportunities yet. So, they may think this information doesn’t apply to

them. However, the Career Guide can be useful to them even at this point in their career.

Those late in their career view this as not applicable to them personally. However, anyone in

a leadership position will benefit from seeing the competencies associated with their career

field and being able to pass this information on to their employees.

d

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Slide 8

Guiding DocumentsGuiding Documents• Interagency Fire Program Management

Qualifications Standards and Guide• Wildland and Prescribed Fire Qualification

System Guide-PMS 310-1• Federal Agencies’ Prescribed Fire/Fuels

Specialist Position Descriptions • Federal Agencies Training Centers course

offerings• Course & unit objectives

Interagency Fire Program Management Guide - This document sets requirements for fire

qualification, job competencies, KSAs, and expertise levels.

Wildland and Prescribed Fire Qualification System Guide – Denotes ICS and Prescribed Fire

positions requirements.

The workgroup reviewed a variety of standardized position descriptions from the five federal

agencies that were available as of January 2004.

Federal training centers from which course materials were reviewed:

BLM’s National Training Center located in Phoenix, AZ

FWS’s National Conservation Training Center (NCTC) at Shepherdstown, WV

NPS’s Albright Center at Grand Canyon, Mather Center at Harper’s Ferry, and

the Capital Center in Washington, DC.

USFS at NAFRI, Graduate School Program, and their National training list

through universities.

BIA - has the greatest opportunity to benefit from this effort since they have no

training centers. By having the courses identified, they have access to other

agencies’ training.

Course and unit objectives were compared with the KSAs in the IFPM.

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Slide 9

Workgroup Review ProcessWorkgroup Review Process• Reviewed the Interagency Fire Program

Management Qualifications Standards and Guide

• Reviewed Federal Agencies’ Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist Position Descriptions

• Validated, modified, or added KSAs• Identified existing training courses and materials• Collected Course/Unit Objectives• Related training materials to KSAs• Identified training gaps and recommended

resolutions• Developed Career Guidance Tools

IFPM: This is the project foundation document. A significant amount of work occurred over the last 7 years working toward agreement and approval by the agencies (NPS, FWS, BLM, BIA, and USFS) and departments (Interior, Agricultures, and OPM). IFPM was approved as of October 1, 2004 with implementation to be completed by 2009. The document covers the Prescribed Fire and Fuels Specialist and 13 other fire positions. The IFPM competencies and KSAs were developed about

.

orkgroup

ormation from the revised position descriptions review.

agement courses and materials were more difficult to find. Also, they were developed for the resource specialist and had a different emphasis. These resource management courses were also not developed to meet specific KSAs for the Prescribed Fire and Fuels Specialist. Collected copies of course and unit objectives: Members of the workgroup identified courses. People in the Prescribed Fire and Fuels Specialist positions were contacted to see what training they had received and thought valuable to the personal development. Most of the course documentation came from agency training centers. Course and unit objectives to KSAs: Course and unit objectives from 155 courses were compared against the revised KSAs to see if the courses addressed the KSAs. If the course addressed one or more KSAs, then the course was listed. Identify gaps: As courses were reviewed, it was apparent some KSAs were not addressed. Training gaps -- areas where KSAs were not

1996. Since then, the new direction from the National Fire Plan resulted in increased workload and many changes, such as more mechanical treatments, reporting requirements, and contracting. Agencies hired many employees under both the GS-455/462 and the GS-401 position descriptions. There were many transfers between agencies. Consistency in training and

ualifications of the Prescribed Fire and Fuels Specialist among the agencies is neededq Review Position Descriptions: The IFPM used circa 1996 position descriptions to identify KSAs. However, each agency has

odified their position descriptions in the last five years based on the National Fire Plan and other reviews. The wmreviewed the KSAs in those current position descriptions to identify competencies and KSAs not identified in 1996. Validate, modify, and added KSAs: Changes and additions to the KSAs in the IFPM were suggested based on knowledge of he program and inft

Identifying existing training: Course materials fit into two categories, fire (suppression and prescribed fire) and resource management. For the NWCG fire suppression and prescribed fire courses, acquiring materials was not a problem. This is understandable since the fire qualifications were designed to develop a person in specific suppression and prescribed fire qualifications. The resource man

or were barely covered -- started to emerge. A Training Gap Analysis document was prepared with recommendations for future actions. Developed Career Guidance tools: The Career Development Guide and the Personal Career Record were developed to provide employees and supervisors necessary information about the KSAs for the position. These tools let employees and supervisors know what training and work experience is required for full performance at different stages in their careers and where it can be acquired.

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Slide 10

Program Elements for the Program Elements for the Prescribed Fire/Fuels SpecialistPrescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist

• Program Management• Planning• Operations• Safety and Health

From the Interagency Fire Program Management Qualifications Standards and Guide four elements are identified and all competencies and KSAs are grouped within. Program Management covers: - develop, implement, and evaluate program goals and objectives - develop, implement, and evaluate fire management budgets - supervise and develop employees - develop and maintain agency/bureau and interagency partnerships - identify research needs and apply new technologies Planning covers: - develop plans compliant with environmental laws, regulations, and policies - participate in agency and interagency planning processes - prepare and review plans and/or plan components covering operations, training, prescribed fire/fuels, safety, fire effects, smoke, etc. Operations covers: - manage fuels and prescribed fire program projects, activities, coordination, logistics, and reporting - manage wildland fire program components, strategy and tactics, incident management, and appropriate management response - manage unit fire and aviation program/operations as appropriate Safety and Welfare covers: - conduct prescribed fire/fuels operations in accordance with safety-related laws, policies and guidelines - conduct safety education programs - prepare hazard, risk, and trend analyses - identify hazards and risks with appropriate mitigation actions

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Slide 11

Competency Competency

A “competency” is defined as a combination of knowledge, skills, and abilities which, when acquired, allow a person to perform a task or function at a specifically defined level of proficiency.

- IFPM

To develop a person to a full qualifications level, the agencies need to know what KSAs are

required for the position. The IFPM provides this guidance.

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Slide 12

Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesKnowledge, Skills, and Abilities• Knowledge - facts or ideas acquired by study,

investigation, observation, formal training or experience.

• Skills - proficiency in performing tasks that is acquired or developed through training or experience.

• Abilities - demonstrated mastery, competence or proficiency of what has been acquired through learning.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities are key to the job.

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Slide 13

Expertise LevelsExpertise Levels• Working - The minimum level of experience and/or

training that it takes to produce work of acceptable quality.

• Journey - Has sufficient experience to be considered a season employee. Is skilled in performing the more difficult tasks related to the function. Has received advance training in the function.

• Expert - Reflects the quality of experience and/or training needed to perform the most challenging aspects of the position.

- IFPM

The IFPM identifies three expertise levels.

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Slide 14

Workgroup ProductsWorkgroup Products• Proposed KSAs Revisions• KSAs Mapped to Courses• Course List w/ ownership & expertise levels• Training Gap Analysis & Recommendations• Career Development Guide• Personal Career Record• Specialist Presentation (PowerPoint)

Several products have been developed from this project. Each will be discussed.

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Slide 15

KSAsKSAs• Address four program elements• KSAs

– Black print is original material – Red is recommended revisions

(based on knowledge of the current program, agency position descriptions, etc.)

• Courses where KSAs can be acquired.

Handout 1 – Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialists KSAs Mapped to Courses.

Discuss the document.

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Slide 16

Course ListCourse List

• Course Identifiers• Course Titles• Ownership of courses• Expertise level for each course

Handout 2 - Course List

Introductory materials: Over a career, many courses will be attended. Many of these are

required for certification in suppression and prescribed fire positions, supervision, safety, etc.

Many are for continuing education to improve effectiveness and efficiency or to reduce agency

liabilities.

156 courses were reviewed and had objectives that related to specific KSAs. Of the courses

reviewed, many in specific subject areas are covered by each or most agencies, thus multiple

courses may be listed for a KSA. For example, each agency teaches courses in Environmental

Assessment preparation.

Ownership of courses is important, since any recommendations for change in course content

will need to be referred to that organization.

Each course was assessed to determine its associated expertise level.

Since this review took place, new programs and courses are becoming available through

universities and training centers as a result of the IFPM implementation.

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Slide 17

Training Gap AnalysisTraining Gap Analysis

• List of KSAs not sufficiently covered in training courses

• Gap descriptions• Expertise levels for KSAs• Resolutions• Summary recommendation

mendations

his document contains six tables:

Table 1- Skills Gap Analysis lists KSAs (Working, Journey, and Expert levels) that were not

sufficiently covered by the courses reviewed.

Table 2 - Working Level Skills Gap Resolution

Table 3 - Journey/Expert Level Skills Gap Resolution

Table 4 - Supervisory Training Gap Resolution

Table 5A – RX 300/RX 3XX Gap Resolution

Table 5B - KSAs proposed for RX 300/3XX Revision

Table 6 - KSA proposed for S 234 Revision

Handout 3 - Training Gap Analysis and Recom

T

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Slide 18

Training RecommendationsTraining Recommendations

• Develop Working level course

• Develop Journey/Expert level course

• Incorporate material into existing courses

Develop Working level training that incorporates the following subject areas: wildland fire

science, policy and practice procedures, agency budget process, cooperating agency mission

organization and operating procedures, NWCG working teams, and other coordinating groups,

mechanical fuel treatments equipment and methodology, risk assessment and job hazard

analysis processes, and complexity analysis.

Develop Journey/Expert level training that incorporates: wildland fire science, fuels and

prescribed fire management policy, practices, and procedures, preparing program goals and

objectives, applying corrective action to increase efficiencies, resolving issues with the use of

research, agency and interagency budget procedures and coordination, prioritizing projects

based on available funding and program goals, understanding and implementation of

interagency agreements, understanding for full range of mechanical treatments, risk assessment

and job hazard analysis processes, and complexity analysis.

Incorporate material into existing courses (i.e., supervision training, RX 300, leadership

training).

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Slide 19

Career Development ToolsCareer Development Tools

•• Career Development GuideCareer Development Guide•• Personal Career RecordPersonal Career Record

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Slide 20

Prescribed Fire/Fuels SpecialistCareer Development Guide

Handout 4 – Career Development Guide

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Slide 21

Prescribed Fire/Fuels SpecialistPersonal Career Record

Handout 5 - Personal Career Record.

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Slide 22



– Increase Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)



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Slide 23

Career Timeline for the Prescribed Career Timeline for the Prescribed Fire/Fuels SpecialistFire/Fuels Specialist

Entry Journey Expert

20 yrs12 yrs


15 yrs8 yrs

New Goal

Current

r type of education and experience. From that

r the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist, an employee and

n realistically attain

is shortens the timeline significantly from current

ch journey level and 20 years to reach expert level.

cation/training when necessary

ng commitment to develop a solid foundation and advance when appropriate

ttended identified training courses and got the necessary experience to advance qualifications

Participated as an instructor and in course development

Participated in accelerated training programs

Worked in a broad-based fuels program or transferred to get the necessary experience

Managed part of the prescribed fire and fuels program

Participated in program evaluations

Supported with a mentor

Using the Career Development Guide and the Personal Career Record will help identify training and experiences

that need to be included in employees’ annual development plans.

Using the tools, employees and supervisors can work from the same approved document and plan several years

ahead.

An employee’s development is heavily dependent on thei

foundation, with knowledge of what is required fo

supervisor can layout a pathway for development. With this information, employees ca

journey level in 8 years and expert level in 15 years. Th

anecdotal estimates of 12 years to rea

Common denominators among employees who have advanced faster than this timeline are:

Had personal initiative including using own time and money for edu

Had a supervisor that worked with the employee and provided great support and guidance

Had stro

A

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Slide 24

RecommendationsRecommendations• Approve and distribute Career Development Guide and

Personal Career Record to prospective and current Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialists and supervisors

• Make presentations to target audiences (PFTC, FUTA, JAC)• Develop two courses (working level and journey/expert

level), based on Tables 2 and 3 in the training gap analysis, to cover KSAs not adequately addressed at the current time.

• Revise RX 300/3XX, S 234, and supervisory courses to include KSAs identified in the training gap analysis.

• Rewrite KSAs in task book language for IQCS system.• Revise KSAs in the IFPM.• Determine what role the two prescribed fire training centers

should have in implementing workgroup recommendations.

Approve and distribute career planning tools to prospective and current Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialists and

supervisors.

Presentations need to be made to prospective and current Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialists and supervisors using

the PowerPoint designed for the Specialist Presentation. The Specialist Presentation, which focuses on the Career

Guide and Personal Career Record tools, is a much shortened version of this Overview Presentation.

Two courses are recommended, one for Working level and one for Journey/Expert level, to ensure the critical

KSAs are acquired. Coordination should occur between this workgroup and the course development group(s).

For RX 300/3XX, S 234, and supervisory courses, provide KSA information to the NIFC Training Group.

If the career tools are approved and incorporated into the IQCS system, the KSAs will have to be rewritten in task

format.

When the IFPM is revised, include the recommended revisions to the KSAs.

The two prescribed fire training centers play a crucial role in development of Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialists.

How should they be involved?

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Section 3: Competencies/KSAs Review

The competencies and Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities from the Interagency Fire Program Management Qualifications Standards and Guide (IFPM) for the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist position were developed about 1996. Since then, new direction from the National Fire Plan has resulted in increased workload and many changes, such as more mechanical treatments, reporting requirements, and contracting. In the last several years, based on the National Fire Plan and other reviews, the five federal agencies have modified their position descriptions. The workgroup reviewed the KSAs in those current position descriptions to identify competencies and KSAs not identified in 1996. The workgroup reviewed the Common and Specific Competencies in the IFPM for the Prescribed Fire and Fuels Specialist. The Common Competencies apply to all positions and the workgroup thought the IFPM implementation team, agencies, and education centers would develop the necessary training for all fire employees to accomplish them. The original 54 specific competency descriptors came from the IFPM Competency Descriptors for Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialists, page 4-263. KSAs for the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialists are identified in two colors. The original KSAs are printed in black. The workgroup proposed 48 additional KSAs, printed in red, based on their knowledge of the program and review of the current position descriptions. The total number of KSAs is 102. The workgroup defined knowledge, skills, and abilities as follows:

- Knowledge - facts or ideas acquired by study, investigation, observation, formal training or experience.

- Skills - proficiency in performing tasks that is acquired or developed through training or experience.

- Abilities - demonstrated mastery, competence or proficiency of what has been acquired through learning.


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Section 4: Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist KSAs – Proposed Revisions

I. Program Management

A. Develop, implement and evaluate program goals and objectives in support of mission accomplishment. Implement corrective actions.

I.A.1 Knowledge of wildland fire science I.A.2 Knowledge of fuels management and prescribed fire policies, practices

and procedures. I.A.3 Knowledge of natural resource management concepts, principles, and practices applicable to the full range of duties associated with fire management. I.A.4 Knowledge of the integration of related fields such as forestry and range ecology and management, entomology, pathology, recreation, wildlife

and vegetation management, soil science, air, and water. I.A.5 Knowledge of landscape and disturbance ecology including classification of fire regimes and condition classes. I.A.6 Knowledge of smoke management regulations, including EPA, state,

tribal, local, and agency specific. I.A.7 Knowledge of fire effects as it relates to fuel modification and prescribed fire. I.A.8 Knowledge of prescribed fire techniques, wildland fire use, and fuels management methods and procedures. I.A.9 Knowledge of program monitoring and evaluation process and

procedures to include the National Fire Plan. I.A.10 Knowledge of reporting requirements and procedures. I.A.11 Ability to predict and interpret ecological effects of fire or its absence on

a landscape basis and anticipate social and political response. I.A.12 Ability to prepare program goals and objectives. I.A.13 Ability to monitor and evaluate prescribed fire/fuels management

program elements and determine their effectiveness in meeting program goals

and objectives. I.A.14 Ability to apply corrective actions to increase efficiencies and effectiveness. I.A.15 Ability to identify and define fire-related management issues, resolve the issues with available research, and make recommendations. I.A.16 Ability to serve as technical consultant and authoritative expert on prescribed fire and fuels management to the line officer and/or fire


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management officer. I.A.17 Ability to identify alternative treatment options that include biomass utilization through opportunities such as timber harvest, stewardship contracts, and special forest products. I.A.18 Ability to provide technical expertise to participate on task groups, technical and program reviews, and review teams (such as escape fire investigations and financial audits). I.A.19 Ability to maintain project records in accordance with agency policies.

B. Develop, implement and evaluate fuels management budgets.

I.B.1 Knowledge of agency budget procedures. I.B.2 Ability to prioritize projects based upon funding, program goals and objectives. I.B.3 Skill in developing, implementing and monitoring a prescribed fire/fuels management budget.

C. Supervise and develop employees.

I.C.1 Knowledge of processes and sources of training. I.C.2 Knowledge of agency and interagency qualification and certification standards. I.C.3 Ability to implement development/training plans I.C.4 Ability to evaluate employee performance and take appropriate action. I.C.5 Ability to apply employee training back into program and personal goals and objectives. I.C.6 Ability to develop and teach formal/informal prescribed fire and fuels management training. I.C.7 Knowledge of supervisory methods and techniques. I.C.8 Ability to lead and supervise.

D. Develop and maintain agency/bureau and interagency partnerships. I.D.1 Knowledge of existing Cooperative Agreements, Memoranda of Understanding and Memoranda of Agreement. I.D.2 Knowledge of cooperating agencies' missions, organizations and

operating procedures. I.D.3 Knowledge of development of Cooperative Agreements, Memoranda of Understanding and Memoranda of Agreement. I.D.4 Knowledge of the organization and function of interagency fire organizations, such as National Wildfire Coordinating Group, National Multi-agency Coordinating Group, geographic area coordinating groups, state, tribal, and local groups. I.D.5 Ability to prepare Cooperative Agreements, Memoranda of Understanding and Memoranda of Agreement. I.D.6 Skill in working with interagency agreements and MOUs. I.D.7 Ability in working with agreement and contracting personnel.

E. Identify research needs and apply new technologies. I.E.1 Knowledge of research programs and general applications (Joint Fire


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Science Program, USGS, development centers) I.E.2 Ability to integrate research results/technology transfer into planning goals and objectives. I.E.3 Ability to identify and clarify fire management issues, and develop

research recommendations, if necessary. I.E.4 Ability to apply technology in fire management activities.


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II. Planning A. Develop plans compliant with environmental laws, regulations and policies.

II.A.1 Knowledge of regional and local plans (Northwest Forest Plan, Columbia Basin, etc.). II.A.2 Ability to obtain essential information from partnering agencies (cooperating, regulatory and policy bodies affecting your program). II.A.3 Ability to implement direction provided by laws and plans. II.A.4 Knowledge of environmental laws, regulations, and policies including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Clean Air Act, Threatened and Endangered Species Act, and the Wilderness Act and the National Historical Preservation Act. II.A.5 Ability to write environmental documents required in accordance with NEPA for prescribed fire and fuels management projects. II.A.6 Ability to resolve complex prescribed fire and fuels management issues that involve use and interpretation of conflicting fire and resource objectives, policies, or laws.

B. Participate in agency and interagency interdisciplinary planning processes.

II.B.1 Ability to collaborate with interagency participants, local groups, etc. (such

as developing local fire management plans and community risk assessments). II.B.2 Ability to participate in interdisciplinary planning.

C. Prepare and review plans and/or plan components including, but not limited to:

1. Annual Operating Plans 2. Training plans 3. Prescribed fire, wildland fire use, and fuels management plans

(chemical,mechanical, biological) 4. Safety plans 5. Individual project plans 6. Fire-effects monitoring plans 7. Integrate operations plans into unit and interagency plan 8. Programmatic plans 9. Monitoring plans II.C.1 Knowledge of related natural resource fields sufficient to develop guidelines, criteria, policies, and procedures for the ecological aspects for the fuels management program. II.C.2 Knowledge of required components of the plans. II.C.3 Skill in developing a description and schedule of treatments to meet objectives established in the fuel management plan (to include mechanical, prescribed fire, chemical, and biological). II.C.4 Skill in developing fire behavior prescriptions to meet objectives established in prescribed fire plans. II.C.5 Ability to develop project goals and objectives and treatment alternatives. II.C.6 Ability to ensure fuels management and burn plans are prepared and reviewed in accordance with agency policies.


4-5

D. Conduct smoke management planning and analysis. II.D.1 Knowledge of health effects of smoke. II.D.2 Knowledge of air quality monitoring devices. II.D.3 Knowledge of various smoke management regulations including federal, state, tribal, local and agency specific. II.D.4 Knowledge of smoke emission and dispersion models. II.D.5 Skill in implementing a smoke management program that complies with federal, state, tribal, local, and agency laws, regulations and policies. II.D.6 Ability to relate weather and fire behavior to expected smoke conditions. II.D.7 Ability to collaborate with state, local, and tribal air quality regulatory agencies. II.D.8 Knowledge of smoke mitigation techniques.

III. Operations

A. Manage fuels, wildland fire use, and prescribed fire programs including but not limited to: 1. Fuels management projects (chemical, mechanical, and biological) 2. Prescribed fire activities 3. Priority setting/coordination 4. Logistics/support 5. Accomplishment Reporting 6. Project Monitoring 7. Wildland fire use III.A.1 Knowledge of the full range of mechanical fuel treatments. III.A.2 Knowledge of methods for the collection, storage, retrieval, and analysis of results from fuels treatment and fire effects monitoring. III.A.3 Knowledge of fire behavior monitoring, prediction, adjustment, and documentation techniques. III.A.4 Knowledge of fire weather, fire behavior and fire danger. III.A.5 Knowledge of the Interagency Wildland Fire Implementation Guide. III.A.6 Knowledge of aerial and ground-based ignition methods and

techniques. III.A.7 Knowledge of fuel loading and moisture collection methods. III.A.8 Knowledge of Geographic Information and Global Positioning Systems. III.A.9 Knowledge of prescribed fire computer programs including Firefamily, RERAP, BehavePlus, smoke modeling systems, etc. III.A.10 Knowledge of contracting procedures (service contracts, Indian self determination contracts). III.A.11 Skill in implementing fire use, fuels modification, and prescribed fire plans. III.A.12 Skill in setting priorities and allocating resources involving multiple projects. III.A.13 Skill in preparing and administering hazardous fuels reduction contracts (project inspector, COR, or COTR). III.A.14 Skill in documenting project daily status, fire behavior and effects, and financial obligations, etc. III.A.15 Ability to document, track, and report accomplishments following


4-6

agency guidelines. III.A.16 Ability to develop and implement monitoring plan. III.A.17 Skill in performing as a Prescribed Fire Burn Boss, as defined by NWCG. III.A.18 Knowledge of mechanical equipment, capabilities, and limitations. III.A.19 Ability to coordinate with cooperating agencies (such issues as priority setting, resource sharing, and airshed management). III.A.20 Ability to schedule burning and evaluate current weather and burning conditions (includes discussion with National Weather Service). III.A.21 Ability to evaluate and validate weather and fuels data and resolve identified issues (such as weather observations, RAWS data, spot forecast information, and historical weather data).

B. Support wildland fire program components to include but not limited to:

1. Strategy and tactics 2. Incident management 3. Appropriate management response 4. Wildland fire use III.B.1 Knowledge of the Incident Command System component of National Interagency Incident Management System. III.B.2 Knowledge of wildland and urban interface fire suppression

strategies and tactics. III.B.3 Knowledge of the full range of wildland fire appropriate management responses. III.B.4 Knowledge of fire behavior, strategy and tactics, resources, equipment, and tools sufficient to safely, efficiently, and effectively direct the management of wildland fires up to Type 3 Incident Commander and Task Force Leader and Fire Use Manager. III.B.5 Ability to implement the Interagency Wildland Fire Implementation Guide.

C. Support unit fire aviation programs or operations as appropriate, including,

but not limited to: 1. Tactical application of aircraft including aerial ignition methods and

Techniques 2. Aviation safety management 3. Administration

III.C.1 Knowledge of capabilities, limitations and approved safety standards and operating procedures of commonly used fixed and rotary-wing aircraft. III.C.2 Knowledge of aviation administration requirements and procedures, such as contract solicitation, awarding and administration, fiscal accounting, etc.


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III.C.3 Ability to ensure management of aircraft utilized in unit's prescribed fire operations is conducted in a safe and efficient manner, following established standards. III.C.4 Ability to obtain compliance with established personnel safety requirements, such as training, personal protective equipment, determination of payloads, manifesting, flight following, crash/rescue response, etc.

IV. Safety & Welfare

A. Conduct prescribed fire/fuels modification operations in accordance with safety- related laws, policies and guidelines, including: 1. Occupational Safety and Health Act 2. Applicable state and tribal safety regulations 3. Department and agency policies and guidelines 4. NWCG guidelines 5. Department of Transportation (DOT) Regulations

IV.A.1 Knowledge and comprehension of the laws, policies and guidelines pertaining to safety such as the Code of Federal Regulations, national

and agency policies and guidelines, 10 Standard Fire Orders, 18 Watchout Situations, and other related fire safety guidelines, including OSHA, DOT, and NWCG guidelines.

B. Conduct safety related programs focusing on:

1. Training 2. Certification 3. Safety briefings 4. After Action Reviews 5. Lessons Learned Program(s) IV.B.1 Ability to conduct and integrate safety briefings and after action reviews.

IV.B.2 Skill in the effective use of training and certification to achieve safety management objectives and ensure compliance.

C. Prepare job hazard analysis and risk assessment for Wildland and prescribed f ire, and fuels management activities.

IV.C.1 Knowledge of risk assessment process. IV.C.2 Knowledge of job hazard analysis process. IV.C.3 Skill in developing and communicating job hazard analysis. IV.C.4 Skill in developing risk assessment based upon prescribed fire complexity rating system. IV.C.5 Ability to identify, document, and communicate project specific hazards and risks.

D. Follow up identified hazards and risks with appropriate mitigation actions.

IV.D.1 Skill in recognition and mitigation of a variety of miscellaneous hazards


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and risks encountered within the wildland fire environment and other work environments, i.e., aviation, mechanized equipment, smoke, and hazardous materials. IV.D.2 Ability to communicate mitigated hazards and risks.

Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialists Development Project Section 5:

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Section 5: Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialists KSAs Mapped to Courses

Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist Position Descriptor A Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist is one who integrates prescribed fire, smoke management, fuels modification principles and procedures, fire effects knowledge, and knowledge of scientific data collection and analysis principles into a comprehensive prescribed fire and fuels management program. The following Table addresses the listed KSAs (in four categories: Program Management, Planning, Operations, and Safety and Welfare) and their association to readily available formal training courses. KSAs for the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialists are identified in two colors. Those that are printed in black are from the original Interagency Fire Program Management Qualifications Standards and Guide. KSAs printed in red are from multi-grade position descriptions from the five agencies and SME knowledge of those positions. Training will not provide for all of the KSAs, therefore Agency Orientation Courses, Agency Mentoring Programs, Workshops, Local Training, Symposia, details and assignments, and OJT will help to develop KSAs for the various Tasks. University (300/400 level University Courses) and other continuing education courses may be taken to develop KSAs for the various Tasks. We have not addressed training programs offered by state agencies (although these may also contribute to developing KSAs).


I. Program Management

Description This element identifies the knowledge, skills and abilities required to develop and manage a prescribed fire/fuels management program.

Outline A. Develop, implement and evaluate program goals and objectives in support of mission accomplishment. Implement corrective actions. KSA No.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/Owner

GAP – Training is required for basic orientation for knowledge of wildland fire science for entry and working level RX 410 NWCG RX 310/340 NWCG TFM WI

I.A.1 Knowledge of wildland fire science.

RX 510 NWCG

M 581 NWCG

I.A.2 Knowledge of fuels management and prescribed fire policies, practices and procedures. GAP – Training is required earlier in the

career path for fuels management and prescribed fire policies, practices and procedures

I.A.3 Knowledge of natural resource management concepts, principles, and CEEM IA

5-2


KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Courses/Owner

FRCC IA M 580 NWCG

practices applicable to the full range of duties associated with fire management.

TFM WI 1730.08 BLMCEEM IA M 580 NWCG 1730.10 BLMM 581 NWCG NRS 1050 NPS

I.A.4 Knowledge of the integration of related fields such as forestry and range ecology and management, entomology, pathology, recreation, wildlife and vegetation management, soil science, air, and water.

TFM WI 1730.37 BLM

1730.60 BLM FRCC IA M 581 NWCG RX 80 NPS

I.A.5 Knowledge of landscape and disturbance ecology including classification of fire regimes and condition classes.

RX 510 NWCG 7000.06 BLMPFPI FWS

RX 300/3XX NWCG I.A.6 Knowledge of smoke management regulations, including EPA, state, tribal, local, and agency specific.

RX 410 NWCG

M 580 NWCG M 581 NWCG RX 80 NPS RX 310/340 NWCG

I.A.7 Knowledge of fire effects as it relates to fuel modification and prescribed fire.

RX 510 NWCG

5-3



Courses/Owner

Concepts & Advanced Fuel Modeling

USFS

PFPI FWS RX 300/3XX NWCG S 234 NWCG S 492 NWCG

I.A.8 Knowledge of prescribed fire techniques, wildland fire use, and fuels management methods and procedures.

S 580 NWCG FIREMON USFS FMH NPS FPA IA M 581 NWCG NFPORS Contractor

I.A.9 Knowledge of program monitoring and evaluation process and procedures to include the National Fire Plan.

PPM NPS I.A.10 Knowledge of reporting requirements and procedures. NFPORS Contractor

CEFM USFSFRCC IA M 581 NWCG RX 310/340 NWCG

I.A.11 Ability to predict and interpret ecological effects of fire or its absence on a landscape basis and anticipate social and political response.

RX 510 NWCG CEFM USFSM 581 NWCG NRS 1050 NPS I.A.12 Ability to prepare program goals and objectives. GAP – Training is required learn and practice ability to prepare program goals and objectives FIREMON USFS FMH NPS FPA IA

I.A.13 Ability to monitor and evaluate prescribed fire/fuels management program elements and determine their effectiveness in meeting program goals and objectives.

M 581 NWCG

5-4



Courses/Owner

NFPORS Contractor PPM NPS GAP – Training is required for applying corrective actions to increase efficiencies and effectiveness Leadership Development NWCG

I.A.14 Ability to apply corrective actions to increase efficiencies and effectiveness.

M 581 NWCG GAP – Training is required for identifying and defining fire-related management issues, resolve the issues with available research, and make recommendations M 581 NWCG

I.A.15 Ability to identify and define fire-related management issues, resolve the issues with available research, and make recommendations.

TFM WIM 410 NWCG Mechanical Fuels Treatment USFS R2

RX 300/3XX NWCG S 590 NWCG

I.A.16 Ability to serve as technical consultant and authoritative expert on prescribed fire and fuels management to the line officer and/or fire management officer.

TFM WI AOTR BIA CEFM USFS COR Training Agency Specific FVS USFS M 581 NWCG Mechanical Fuels Treatment

USFS R2

NRS 1050 NPS

I.A.17 Ability to identify alternative treatment options that include biomass utilization through opportunities such as timber harvest, stewardship contracts, and special forest products.

RX 410 NWCG

5-5



Courses/Owner

TFM WI M 581 NWCG NRS 1050 NPS S 490 NWCG S 491 NWCG S 492 NWCG S 493 NWCG S 590 NWCG

I.A.18 Ability to provide technical expertise to participate on task groups, technical and program reviews, and review teams (such as escape fire investigations and financial audits).

TFM WI1620.13 BLM 1620.17 BLM AOTR BIACOR Training Agency Specific NRS 2040 NPS ECS 3121 FWS NEPA 1900.1 USFS NFPORS Database Training

Contractor

RX 80 NPS

I.A.19 Ability to maintain project records in accordance with agency policies.

RX 300/3XX NWCG B. Develop, implement and evaluate fire fuels management budgets. KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner

GAP – Training is required for knowledge of agency budget procedures FPA IA

I.B.1 Knowledge of agency budget procedures.

LED 6129 FWS

5-6


PPM NPSGAP – Training is required for practice ability to prioritize projects based upon funding, program goals and objectives I.B.2 Ability to prioritize projects based upon funding, program goals and

objectives. RAMS IA

I.B.3 Skill in developing, implementing and monitoring a prescribed fire/fuels management budget.

GAP – Training in developing, implementing and monitoring a prescribed fire/fuels management budget.

C. Supervise and develop employees. KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner

1430.04 PV BLM OPM Supervision OPM S 445 NWCG I.C.1 Knowledge of processes and sources of training.

I.C.2 Knowledge of agency and interagency qualification and certification standards.

GAP - 310.1, FSM 5109.17 GAP - IQCS S 445 NWCG 1252.05 BLM 1430.04 PV BLM S 445 NWCG LED 6174 FWS LED 6176 FWS

OPM Courses OPM

I.C.3 Ability to implement development/training plans

Supervisory Satellite Series

IA

1252.05 BLM 1252.06 BLM 1403.12 PV BLM L 280 NWCG

I.C.4 Ability to evaluate employee performance and take appropriate action.

L 380 NWCG

5-7


KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner LED 6174 FWS LED 6175 FWS LED 6176 FWS S 281 NWCG S 301 NWCG GAP – Training is required for practice ability to apply employee training back into program and personal goals and objectives LED 6175 FWS LED 6176 FWS

I.C.5 Ability to apply employee training back into program and personal goals and objectives.

OPM Courses OPM

I.C.6 Ability to develop and teach formal/informal prescribed fire and fuels management training.

M 410 NWCG

1252.05 BLM L 280 NWCG LED 6166 FWS LED 6174 FWS LED 6175 FWS SML 1102 NPS SML 1103 NPS OPM Courses OPM

I.C.7 Knowledge of supervisory methods and techniques.

S 301 NWCG 1252.05 BLM L 280 NWCG SML 1001 NPS SML 1102 NPS SML 1103 NPS LED 6166 FWS LED 6174 FWS LED 6175 FWS

I.C.8 Ability to lead and supervise.

S 301 NWCG

5-8


D. Develop and maintain agency/bureau and interagency partnerships. KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner

1500.23 BLM 1530.23 BLM M 581 NWCG OUT 8110 FWS OUT 8116 FWS

I.D.1 Knowledge of existing Cooperative Agreements, Memoranda of Understanding and Memoranda of Agreement.

OUT 8118 FWS

I.D.2 Knowledge of cooperating agencies' missions, organizations and operating procedures.

GAP – Training in cooperating agencies' missions, organizations and operating procedures. 1500.13 PV BLM 1500.23 BLM 1530.23 BLM 1730.33 BLM Grants & Agreements Training

IA

M 581 NWCG OUT 8110 FWS OUT 8116 FWS

I.D.3 Knowledge of development of Cooperative Agreements, Memoranda of Understanding and Memoranda of Agreement.

OUT 8118 FWS

I.D.4

Knowledge of the organization and function of interagency fire organizations, such as National Wildfire Coordinating Group, National Multi-agency Coordinating Group, geographic area coordinating groups, state, tribal, and local groups.

GAP – Training in the organization and function of interagency fire organizations, such as National Wildfire Coordinating Group, National Multi-agency Coordinating Group, geographic area coordinating groups, state, tribal, and local groups. 1500.13 PV BLM I.D.5 Ability to prepare Cooperative Agreements, Memoranda of Understanding

and Memoranda of Agreement. 1500.23 BLM

5-9


KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner 1730.33 BLMGrants & Agreements Training

IA

OUT 8110 FWS OUT 8116 FWS GAP – Training in working with interagency agreements and MOUs I.D.6 Skill in working with interagency agreements and MOUs. 1500.13 PV BLM 1500.12 PV BLM 1500.13 PV BLM 1530.23 BLM AOTR BIA COR Training Agency Specific Grants & Agreements Training

IA

OUT 8110 FWS

I.D.7 Ability in working with agreement and contracting personnel.

OUT 8116 FWS E. Identify research needs and apply new technologies. KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner

I.E.1 Knowledge of research programs and general applications (Joint Fire Science Program, USGS, development centers)

GAP – Training in research programs and general applications.

I.E.2 Ability to integrate research results/technology transfer into planning goals and objectives.

GAP – Training in integrating research results/technology transfer into planning goals and objectives. GAP – Training in practice Ability to identify and clarify fire management issues, and develop research recommendations, if necessary

I.E.3 Ability to identify and clarify fire management issues, and develop research recommendations, if necessary.

RX 310/340 NWCG

5-10


RX 510 NWCG TFM Contractor GAP – Training in technology applications and processes in fire management activities 1730.55 BLM I.E.4 Ability to apply technology in fire management activities.

Mechanical Fuels Treatment

USFS R2

II. Planning Description This competency element identifies the knowledge, skills and abilities required for participation in the planning processes involved in prescribed fire, wildland fire use, and fuels management programs. These levels must be sufficient to allow for participation on interdisciplinary teams in the development of:

• Unit-level fire and fuels management plans. • Annual Operating Plans- these plans could include Memoranda of Understanding and Cooperative Agreements, mobilization

plans, step-up staffing plans, etc.

• Project plans-these could include prescribed fire, wildland fire use, and fuels management project plans. • Other resource management plan that include use of wildland fire use, prescribed fire, and fuels management as treatment objectives. • Environmental documents.

Outline A. Develop plans compliant with environmental laws, regulations and policies. KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner II.A.1 Knowledge of regional and local plans (Northwest Forest Plan, Columbia M 581 NWCG

5-11


KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner NRS 2040 NPS ECS 3121 FWS FPA IA

Basin, etc.).

NEPA 1900.1 USFS M 581 NWCG FPA IA II.A.2 Ability to obtain essential information from partnering agencies

(cooperating, regulatory and policy bodies affecting your program). RX 410 NWCG 1620.11 DL BLM 1620.13 BLM 1620.17 BLM 1730.30 BLM M 581 NWCG NRS 2040 NPS ECS 3121 FWS NEPA 1900.1 USFS RX 300/3XX NWCG RX 410 NWCG

II.A.3 Ability to implement direction provided by laws and plans.

TFM Contractor 1620.13 BLM 1620.17 BLM 1730.30 BLM 7000.06 BLM CRS 5026 NPS M 581 NWCG NEPA 1900.1 USFS NRS 2040 NPS ECS 3121 FWS RX 410 NWCG S 580 NWCG

II.A.4

Knowledge of environmental laws, regulations, and policies including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Clean Air Act, Threatened and Endangered Species Act, the Wilderness Act and the National Historical Preservation Act.

WLD 2122 FWS 1620.11 DL BLM II.A.5 Ability to write environmental documents required in accordance with NEPA

for prescribed fire and fuels management projects. 1620.13 BLM

5-12


KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner NEPA Training Contractor ECS 3121 FWS NEPA 1900.1 USFS NRS 2040 NPS ECS 3121 FWS 1730.28 BLM 1730.37 BLM M 581 NWCG RX 300/3XX NWCG RX 410 NWCG RX 510 NWCG RXFM PFTC

II.A.6 Ability to resolve complex prescribed fire and fuels management issues that involve use and interpretation of conflicting fire and resource objectives, policies, or laws.

S 580 NWCG B. Participate in agency and interagency interdisciplinary planning processes. KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner

FireWise Workshops

IA

How to Partner with different Agencies

FWS

OUT 8111 FWS OUT 8116 FWS

II.B.1 Ability to collaborate with interagency participants, local groups, etc. (such as developing local fire management plans and community risk assessments).

RX 300/3XX NWCG 1730.08 BLM NEPA Training Contractor NRS 2040 NPS ECS 3121 FWS

II.B.2 Ability to participate in interdisciplinary planning.

NEPA 1900.1 USFS C. Prepare and review plans and/or plan components including, but not limited to:

5-13


1. Annual Operating Plans 2. Training plans 3. Prescribed fire, wildland fire use, and fuels management plans (chemical, mechanical, biological) 4. Safety plans 5. Individual project plans 6. Fire-effects monitoring plans 7. Integrate operations plans into unit and interagency plan 8. Programmatic plans 9. Monitoring plans

KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner 1730.08 BLM NEPA Training Contractor NRS 2040 NPS ECS 3121 FWS

II.C.1 Knowledge of related natural resource fields sufficient to develop guidelines, criteria, policies, and procedures for the ecological aspects for the fuels management program.

NEPA 1900.1 USFS ECS 3121 FWS M 580 NWCG NEPA 1900.1 USFS NRS 2040 NPS PFPI FWS RX 300/3XX NWCG S 234 NWCG

II.C.2 Knowledge of required components of the plans.

S 580 NWCG *State Pesticide Applicator Certification Courses

IA

1730.02 BLM CEFM USFS ECS 3119 FWS FVS USFS PFPI FWS

II.C.3 Skill in developing a description and schedule of treatments to meet objectives established in the fuel management plan (to include mechanical, prescribed fire, chemical, and biological).

RX 310/340 NWCG

5-14


KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner RX 410 NWCG RX 510 NWCG S 390 NWCG S 490 NWCG S 492 NWCG S 493 NWCG BehavePlus (IMI DL option)

USFS

RX 300/3XX NWCG S 290 NWCG S 390 NWCG S 490 NWCG

II.C.4 Skill in developing fire behavior prescriptions to meet objectives established in prescribed fire plans.

S 590 NWCG 1730.02 BLM CEFM USFS ECS 3121 FWS NEPA 1900.1 USFS NRS 1050 NPS NRS 2040 NPS RX 300/3XX NWCG RX 410 NWCG

II.C.5 Ability to develop project goals and objectives and treatment alternatives.

TFM Contractor M 581 NWCG PFPI FWS II.C.6 Ability to ensure fuels management and burn plans are prepared and

reviewed in accordance with agency policies. RX 300/3XX NWCG D. Conduct smoke management planning and analysis. KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner II.D.1 Knowledge of health effects of smoke. RX 410 NWCG

7000.06 BLM II.D.2 Knowledge of air quality monitoring devices. RX 410 NWCG

5-15


KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner RX 300/3XX NWCG II.D.3 Knowledge of various smoke management regulations including federal,

state, tribal, local and agency specific. RX 410 NWCG RX 300/3XX NWCG RX 410 NWCG II.D.4 Knowledge of smoke emission and dispersion models. M 581 NWCG RX 300/3XX NWCG II.D.5 Skill in implementing a smoke management program that complies with

federal, state, tribal, local, and agency laws, regulations and policies. RX 410 NWCG BehavePlus (IMI DL option)

USFS

RX 300/3XX NWCG RX 310/340 NWCG RX 410 NWCG S 390 NWCG

II.D.6 Ability to relate weather and fire behavior to expected smoke conditions.

S 490 NWCG 7000.06 BLM RX 300/3XX NWCG II.D.7 Ability to collaborate with state, local, and tribal air quality regulatory

agencies. RX 410 NWCG RX 300/3XX NWCG RX 410 NWCG II.D.8 Knowledge of smoke mitigation techniques. S 234 NWCG

5-16


III. Operations Description This element identifies the knowledge, skills and abilities required to manage and support operational program components to achieve land management objectives established for the unit. Operational components include fire effects, wildland fire use, prescribed fire, fuels modification, and aviation. Outline A. Manage fuels, wildland fire use, and prescribed fire programs including but not limited to:

1. Fuels management projects (chemical, mechanical, and biological) 2. Prescribed fire activities 3. Priority setting/coordination 4. Logistics/support 5. Accomplishment Reporting 6. Project Monitoring 7. Wildland fire use

KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner GAP – Training in full range of mechanical fuel treatments. III.A.1 Knowledge of the full range of mechanical fuel treatments. Mechanical Fuels Treatment

USFS R2

1730.05 BLM CEFM USFS FIREMON BIA FMAPlus Contractor

(Carlton) M 581 NWCG

III.A.2 Knowledge of methods for the collection, storage, retrieval, and analysis of results from fuels treatment and fire effects monitoring.

RX 510 NWCG BehavePlus (IMI DL option)

USFS III.A.3 Knowledge of fire behavior monitoring, prediction, adjustment, and documentation techniques.

S 244 NWCG

5-17


KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner S 390 NWCG S 490 NWCG S 492 NWCG S 493 NWCG S 590 NWCG S 290 NWCG S 390 NWCG S 490 NWCG

III.A.4 Knowledge of fire weather, fire behavior and fire danger.

S 491 NWCG

III.A.5 Knowledge of Interagency Prescribed Fire and Wildland Fire Use Implementation Guides.

S 580 NWCG

Aerial Ignition Workshops

Regional

Plastics Sphere Dispenser Operator Training

Inter-Agency Aviation Training (IAT)

Interagency HeliTorch/ Mixing System Training

IAT

Terra Torch Training

IA

ATV Torch Training

Regional

III.A.6 Knowledge of aerial and ground-based ignition methods and techniques.

S 234 NWCG FIREMON BIA FMAPlus Contractor

(Carlton) RX 80 NPS S 390 NWCG S 491 NWCG

III.A.7 Knowledge of fuel loading and moisture collection methods.

TFM WI III.A.8 Knowledge of Geographic Information and Global Positioning Systems. 1730.11 BLM

5-18


KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner 1730.48 BLM 1730.56 BLM TEC 7111 FWS TEC 7112 FWS GPS IA GPS for Fire NPS/BLM TEC 7132 FWS TEC 7133 FWS AGIS ESRI BehavePlus (DL option)

USFS

FVS RX 410 NWCG S 390 NWCG S 490 NWCG S 491 NWCG S 492 NWCG S 493 NWCG

III.A.9 Knowledge of prescribed fire computer programs including Firefamily, RERAP, BehavePlus, smoke modeling systems, etc.

TFM WIAOTR BIA III.A.10 Knowledge of contracting procedures (service contracts, Indian self

determination contracts). COR Training Agency Specific FUTA IA Mechanical Fuels Treatment

USFS R2

Directed Training Assignments (i.e. Developmental Hot Shot Crew, etc. )

IA

PFTC IA

III.A.11 Skill in implementing fire use, fuels modification, and prescribed fire plans.

S 580 NWCG

5-19


KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner Agency Mentoring Programs/OJT

IA

III.A.12 Skill in setting priorities and allocating resources involving multiple projects. GAP = Recommend that L 280/380/381 should be reviewed to ensure priority setting and allocating resources to multiple projects are included. 1500.12 PV BLM AOTR BIA III.A.13 Skill in preparing and administering hazardous fuels reduction contracts

(project inspector, COR, or COTR). COR Training Agency Specific RX 80 NPS RX 300/3XX NWCG S 234 NWCG S 244 NWCG S 260 NWCG

III.A.14 Skill in documenting project daily status, fire behavior and effects, and financial obligations, etc.

S 580 NWCG 1730.11 BLM 1730.56 BLM GIS TEC 7111 FWS GIS TEC 7112 FWS GPS IA GPS for Fire NPS/BLM GPS TEC 7132 FWS GPS TEC 7133 FWS Learning Arc GIS 8 Part 1&2

ESRI

NFPORS Contractor PFPI FWSRX 80 NPS

III.A.15 Ability to document, track, and report accomplishments following agency guidelines.

RX 300/3XX NWCG 1730.05 BLM CEFM USFS

III.A.16 Ability to develop and implement monitoring plan.

FIREMON USFS

5-20


KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner FMH NPSFMAPlus Contractor

(Carlton) RX 80 NPS RX 510 NWCG FUTA IA PFTC IA RX 300/3XX NWCG RX 410 NWCG

III.A.17 Skill in performing as a Prescribed Fire Burn Boss, as defined by NWCG.

S 234 NWCG CEFM USFS Mechanical Fuels Treatment

USFS R2 III.A.18 Knowledge of mechanical equipment, capabilities, and limitations.

GAP – Training in full range of mechanical fuel treatments. FireWise Workshops

IA

How to Partner with different Agencies

FWS

M 581 NWCG OUT 8111 FWS OUT 8116 FWS RX 300/3XX NWCG RX 410 NWCG

III.A.19 Ability to coordinate with cooperating agencies (such issues as priority setting, resource sharing, and airshed management).

TFM WI RX 300/3XX NWCG RX 410 NWCG S 490 NWCG

III.A.20 Ability to schedule burning and evaluate current weather and burning conditions (includes discussion with National Weather Service).

S 491 NWCG PCHA USFS III.A.21 Ability to evaluate and validate weather and fuels data and resolve

identified issues (such as weather observations, RAWS data, spot forecast RX 300/3XX NWCG

5-21


KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner RX 410 NWCG S 244 NWCG S 490 NWCG S 491 NWCG S 493 NWCG

information, and historical weather data).

TFM WI B. Support wildland fire program components to include but not limited to:

1. Strategy and tactics 2. Incident management 3. Appropriate management response 4. Wildland fire use

KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner

I 100 NWCG I 200 NWCG I 300 NWCG

III.B.1 Knowledge of the Incident Command System component of National Interagency Incident Management System.

I 400 NWCG S 205 NWCG S 300 NWCG S 336 NWCG

III.B.2 Knowledge of wildland and urban interface fire suppression strategies and tactics.

S 370 NWCG M 581 NWCG S 580 NWCG III.B.3 Knowledge of the full range of wildland fire appropriate management

responses. Wildland Fire Situation Analysis

IA

L 280 NWCG L 380 NWCG L 381 NWCG M 581 NWCG S 130 NWCG

III.B.4 Knowledge of fire behavior, strategy and tactics, resources, equipment, and tools sufficient to safely, efficiently, and effectively direct the management of wildland fires up to Type 3 Incident Commander and Task Force Leader and Fire Use Manager.

S 131 NWCG

5-22


KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner S 190 NWCG S 215 NWCG S 230 NWCG S 290 NWCG S 330 NWCG S 390 NWCG S 490 NWCG S 580 NWCG M 581 NWCG S 580 NWCG III.B.5 Ability to implement the Interagency Wildland Fire Implementation Guide. Wildland Fire Situation Analysis

IA

C. Support unit fire aviation programs or operations as appropriate, including, but not limited to:

1. Tactical application of aircraft including aerial ignition methods and techniques 2. Aviation safety management 3. Administration


A 104 OAS A 107 OAS A 204 OAS Regional Helo Courses/Workshops IA

S 217 NWCG S 270 NWCG S 370 NWCG

III.C.1 Knowledge of capabilities, limitations and approved safety standards and operating procedures of commonly used fixed and rotary-wing aircraft.

S 372 NWCG A 111 OAS III.C.2 Knowledge of aviation administration requirements and procedures, such

as contract solicitation, awarding and administration, fiscal accounting, etc. A 202 OAS III.C.3 Ability to ensure management of aircraft utilized in unit's prescribed fire A 104 OAS

5-23


KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner A 113/B3 OAS A 109 OAS A 201 OAS A 204 OAS M 581 NWCG Regional Helo Courses/Workshops IA


operations is conducted in a safe and efficient manner, following established standards.

S 372 NWCG A 104 OAS A 113/B3 OAS A 109 OAS A 201 OAS A 204 OAS L 380 NWCG Regional Helo Courses/Workshops IA

S 217 NWCG S 270 NWCG S 370 NWCG S 372 NWCG

III.C.4

Ability to obtain compliance with established personnel safety requirements, such as training, personal protective equipment, determination of payloads, manifesting, flight following, crash/rescue response, etc.

S 404 NWCG IV. Safety and Welfare Description

This competency describes the knowledge, skills and abilities required to manage the environmental, workplace, and vehicles hazards of the wildland fire environment. It focuses on the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist’s ability to provide leadership and

5-24


direction to subordinates in the recognition and mitigation of these hazards using all applicable laws, policies and guidelines. Personal accountability and zero tolerance for unsafe acts are paramount.

Outline

A. Conduct prescribed fire/fuels modification operations in accordance with safety-related laws, policies and guidelines, including:

1. Occupational Safety and Health Act 2. Applicable state and tribal safety regulations 3. Department and agency policies and guidelines 4. NWCG guidelines 5. Department of Transportation (DOT) Regulations


6 Minutes for Safety

NWCG

All “S” Courses appropriate to Position (S 217, S 234, and S 290 do not apply)

NWCG

Annual Fireline Refresher

NWCG

IV.A.1

Knowledge and comprehension of the laws, policies and guidelines pertaining to safety such as the Code of Federal Regulations, national and agency policies and guidelines, 10 Standard Fire Orders, 18 Watchout Situations, and other related fire safety guidelines, including OSHA, DOT, and NWCG guidelines.

M 581 NWCG B. Conduct safety related programs focusing on:

1. Training 2. Certification 3. Safety briefings 4. After Action Reviews 5. Lessons Learned Program(s)


5-25


KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner 6 Minutes for Safety

NWCG

AAR Workshop USFS L 280 NWCG L 380 NWCG RX 300/3XX NWCG S 200 NWCG S 300 NWCG S 336 NWCG S 404 NWCG

IV.B.1 Ability to conduct and integrate safety briefings and after action reviews.

Sand Table Exercises (STEX)

IA

Annual Fireline Refresher

NWCG

L 380 NWCG M 410 NWCG M 581 NWCG S 130 NWCG


S 300 NWCG C. Prepare job hazard analysis and risk assessment for: Wildland and prescribed fire, and fuels management activities.


GAP – Training in risk assessment process. A 201 OAS PFPI FWS RX 300/3XX NWCG S 404 NWCG S 580 NWCG

IV.C.1 Knowledge of risk assessment process.

RSK 6240 NPS

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KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner Wildland Fire Situation Analysis

IA

GAP – Training in job hazard analysis process. IV.C.2 Knowledge of job hazard analysis process. RSK 6240 NPS

GAP – Training in developing job hazard analysis process. L 380 NWCG IV.C.3 Skill in developing and communicating job hazard analysis.

RSK 6240 NPS GAP – Training in risk assessment based upon NWCG prescribed fire complexity rating system. PFPI FWS RX 300/3XX NWCG S 404 NWCG

IV.C.4 Skill in developing risk assessment based upon prescribed fire complexity rating system.

Wildland Fire Situation Analysis

IA

L 380 NWCG L 381 NWCG RX 300/3XX RSK 6240

NWCG NPS


IV.C.5 Ability to identify, document, and communicate project specific hazards and risks.

S 404 NWCG D. Follow up identified hazards and risks with appropriate mitigation actions. KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner IV.D.1 Skill in recognition and mitigation of a variety of miscellaneous hazards and A 113/B3 OAS

5-27

ed Fire/Fuels Specialists Development Project Section 5:

Prescrib

5-28

KSA No. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Courses/ Owner Equipment Cert. Agency Specific HAZMAT Courses Agency Specific L 380 NWCG L381 NWCG Mechanical Fuels Treatment

USFS R2

RX 300/3XX NWCG RX 410 NWCG S 200 NWCG S 205 NWCG S 234 NWCG S 244 NWCG S 270 NWCG S 300 NWCG S 336 NWCG S 370 NWCG

risks encountered within the wildland fire environment and other work environments, i.e., aviation, mechanized equipment, smoke, and hazardous materials.

S 404 NWCG L 380 NWCG L 381 NWCG RX 300/3XX NWCG S 200 NWCG S 234 NWCG S 244 NWCG S 300 NWCG S 336 NWCG

IV.D.2 Ability to communicate mitigated hazards and risks.

S 404 NWCG


6-1

Section 6: Course List

Prescribed Fire/Fuel Management Specialists attend many training lessons/courses during their careers. Many of these courses are required for certification in Wildland and Prescribed Fire positions (Wildland and Prescribed Fire Qualification and Certification Guide, PMS 310-1), supervision (Office of Personnel Management, OPM), or safety (Office of Safety and Health Administration, OSHA). Additional agency requirements may apply. Many lessons/courses are continuing education to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the employee or to reduce agency liability. Approximately 176 course titles were reviewed in this process to identity where KSAs are obtained for an individual to be qualified as a Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist. The course and unit objectives were reviewed to determine if the KSAs were adequately addressed by the course. Through this analysis 156 courses were kept that addressed the KSAs. This is not an all inclusive list of training materials and this analysis has not considered all agency lessons and courses, however, the most appropriate and readily available lessons and courses were investigated. As interagency lists were reviewed, it became obvious that any agency could enroll in any of the lessons and courses provided by the other federal agencies. Tuition may be required to enroll in some of these lessons and/or courses. The purpose of this list is to identify training material (analyzed) that is available to the Prescribed Fire/Fuel Management Specialists positions through the federal interagency partners.


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Table 1.

NWCG Courses:

Course Identifier Course Title Owner W J E

I 100 Introduction to ICS NWCG X I 200 Basic ICS NWCG X I 300 Intermediate ICS NWCG X I 400 Advanced ICS NWCG X L 180 Human Factors on the Fireline NWCG X X X L 280 Followership to Leadership NWCG X X L 380 Fireline Leadership NWCG X L 381 Incident Leadership NWCG X M 410 Facilitative Instructor NWCG X X X M 580 Fire in Ecosystem Management NWCG X M 581 Fire Program Management NWCG X X PMS 310-1

See PMS 310-1 Wildland and Prescribed Fire Qualification and Certification System

NWCG X X X

RX 300/3XX

Prescribed Fire Burn Boss NWCG X X

RX 310/340

Introduction to Fire Effects NWCG X X

RX 410 Smoke Management Techniques NWCG X X RX 510 Applied Fire Effects NWCG X X S 130 Firefighting Training NWCG X S 131 Advanced Firefighter Training NWCG X S 190 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior NWCG X S 200 Initial Attack Incident Commander NWCG X X S 205 Fire Operations in the Urban Interface NWCG X X S 215 Fire Operations in the Wildland/Urban Interface NWCG X S 216 Driving for Fire Service NWCG X X S 217 Interagency Helicopter Training Guide NWCG X X S 230 Crew Boss (Single Resource) NWCG X S 234 Ignition Operations NWCG X X S 244 Field Observer NWCG X X S 260 Interagency Incident Business Management NWCG X X S 270 Basic Air Operations NWCG X X S 281 Supervisory Concepts and Techniques NWCG X X S 290 Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior NWCG X X S 300 Extended Attack Incident Commander NWCG X S 301 Leadership and Organizational Development NWCG X S 330 Task Force/Strike Team Leader NWCG X S 336 Tactical Decision Making in Wildland Fire NWCG X S 370 Intermediate Air Operation NWCG X S 372 Helicopter Manager NWCG X S 390 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior

Calculations NWCG X


6-3


S 404 Safety Officer NWCG X X S 420 Command and General Staff NWCG X X S 445 Incident Training Specialist NWCG X X S 490 Advanced Fire Behavior Calculations NWCG X X S 491 Intermediate National Fire Danger Rating System NWCG X X S 492 Long Term Fire Risk Assessment NWCG X X S 493 FARSITE Fire Area Simulator NWCG X X S 580 Advanced Fire Use Applications NWCG X S 590 Advanced Fire Behavior Interpretation NWCG X STEX Sand Table Exercise (Tactical Decision) NWCG X X X

Table 2. OAS Courses:

Course

Identifier Course Title Owner W J E

A-104 Overview of Aircraft Capabilities & Limitations OAS X X A-105/B3 Aviation Life Support Equipment OAS X X XA-106/B3 Aviation Mishap Reporting OAS X X XA-107 Aviation Policy & Regulations I OAS X X XA-108/B3 Preflight Checklist & Briefing/Debriefing I OAS X X XA-109 Aviation Radio Use OAS X X A-111 Flight Payment Document OAS X X XA-112 Mission Planning & Flight Request Process OAS X X A-113/B3 Crash Survival OAS X X XA-201 Overview of Safety &_Accident Prevention

Program OAS X X

A-202 Interagency Aviation Organizations OAS X X A-204 Aircraft Capabilities & Limitations OAS X X

Table 3. Inter-Agency (IA) Courses:

Course


AAR After Action Review IA X X XAGIS ARC GIS (Change to new short title) IA X XAIW Aerial Ignition Workshops (Regional) IA X XAnnual Refresher

Agency Annual Refresher (including Lessons Learned materials)

IA X X X

COR Contracting Officer Representative IA X X DTA Directed Training Assignments (i.e.

Developmental Hot Shot Crew, etc. ) IA X X X


6-4


Equipment Cert.

Equipment Certification IA X X X

FIREMON

Fire Monitoring IA X X X

FPA Fire Program Analysis IA X XFWW FireWise Workshops IA X X GAT Grants and Agreements Training IA X XGPS Agency Sponsored IA X X XGPS for ICS

GPS for ICS IA X X X

HZ HAZMAT Courses IA X X IHTMS Interagency HeliTorch/Mixing System Training IA X XLDR Dev Leadership Development (Change to Short Title) IA X X XMentor Agency Mentoring Program IA X X XNFPORS National Fire Plan Operation and Reporting

System IA X X

Partnering

How to Partner with Different Agencies IA X X X

PCHA Personal Computer Historical Analysis IA X XPFTC Prescribed Fire Training Center Prescribed Fire

Application IA X X

PSD Interagency Aerial Ignition Guide Plastic Sphere Dispenser Operator Training

IA X X

PSDOT Plastic Sphere Dispenser Operator Training IA X XRAMS Risk Assessment and Mitigation Strategies IA X XRHCW Regional Helo Courses/Workshops IA X X SSS Supervisory Satellite Series IA X XTTT Terra Torch Training IA X X

Table 4. BLM Courses:

Course


NEPA NEPA Training BLM X X X 1252.05 Management and Supervision: Coaching for

Workplace Improvement BLM X X

1252.06 Working in teams BLM X X 1430.04 PV

Introduction to Supervision BLM X X

1430.12 PV

Leadership Challenge BLM X X

1500.12 PV

Contracting Officers Representative Services BLM X


6-5


1500.13 PV

Assistance Agreement BLM X X

1500.23 Assistance Agreements Administration for Assistance Representative

BLM X X

1552.06 Working in Teams BLM X 1620.11 DL

BLM's NEPA Screening Process BLM X

1620.13 NEPA Basic Analysis BLM X X 1620.17 NEPA Concepts BLM X X 1730.02 Designing Successful Restoration and Fuels

Reduction Projects BLM X

1730.05 Measuring & Monitoring of Plant Populations & Vegetation

BLM X

1730.08 BLM Foundations for Fire and Resource Professionals

BLM X X

1730.10 Comprehensive Resource Management BLM X X 1730.11 Geodata for Resource Spec. BLM X X 1730.28 Decisions, Appeals and Hearings BLM X X 1730.30 T & E Species Management & Consultation BLM X X 1730.33 Grant Writing for Conservation BLM X X 1730.37 Interpreting indicators of Rangeland Health BLM X X 1730.48 Project GIS BLM X X 1730.55 Principles of Modeling BLM X X 1730.56 GPS Pathfinder and Data Processing BLM X 1730.60 Restoration of Disturbed Lands BLM X X 1730.64 ArcGIS for BLM BLM X X 1730.66 GIS Technical Specialist for All Risk Incidents BLM X X 1730.67 GPS for the Incident Command System BLM X X 1730.70 ArcView Image Analysis: Image Preparation BLM X X 6001-01 Professional Resource Management BLM X 7000.06 Air Conformity BLM X X

Table 5. FWS Courses:

Course


ECS 3119

Pesticides and Fish and Wildlife Resources FWS X X

ECS 3121

Integrating NEPA into FWS Activities FWS X X

HTO HeloTorch Operations FWS X X X LED_6129

Effective Budgeting for Supervisors and Managers

FWS X X


6-6


LED_6166

Building on Experience: Supervisory Refresher FWS X X

LED_6174

Dynamics Of Supervision FWS X X

LED_6175

Mechanics Of Supervision FWS X X

LED_6176

Management Skills for Non-Supervisors FWS X X

OUT 8110

Conservation Partnership Basics FWS X X

OUT 8111

Building Community Support FWS X X

OUT 8116

Grant Writing For Conservation FWS X X

OUT 8118

Conservation Partnerships in Practice FWS X X

PFPI Prescribed Fire Planning & Implementation FWS X X TEC 7111 GIS Overview For Natural Resource

Conservation FWS X X

TEC 7112 GIS Training For Conservation Professionals FWS X X TEC 7112 GIS Introduction for Conservation Professionals FWS X X TEC 7132 GPS Introduction For Natural Resources Field

Personnel FWS X X

TEC 7133 GPS Advanced Applications For Natural Resources

FWS X X

TEC 7134 GIS Vegetative Cover Mapping FWS X X WLD 2122

Natural Resource Law FWS X X

Table 6. NPS Courses:

Course


CRS 5026

Cultural Resources Protection & Fire Management Planning

NPS X X X

FMH Fire Monitoring Handbook NPS X X NRS 1050

Fundamentals for Natural Resources Management

NPS X X

NRS 2040

Integrating NEPA into NPS NPS X X

PPM Park Program Management NPS X X RX 80 Pre-Burn Inventory Techniques NPS X X SML 1001

Supervision, Management and Leadership NPS X


6-7


SML 1102

Supervision II NPS X X

RSK 6240

Job Hazard Analysis: Identifying Risks Sooner Rather Than Later

NPS X X

Table 7.

USFS Courses:


1900.1 NEPA USFS X X X BH+ BehavePlus Fire Modeling System (Change to

BH+) USFS X X

CEEM Continuing Education in Ecosystem Management

USFS X X

FPM Forest Pest Management USFS X FRCC Fire Regime and Condition Class Workshop USFS X X FUTA Fire Use Training Academy USFS X X FVS Forest Vegetation Simulator USFS X X IQCS Incident Qualification and Certification System USFS X X X NRI Natural Resource Institute USFS X WFSA Wildland Fire Situation Analysis USFS X X IRMFT Inter-Regional Mechanical Fuels Treatment

Training USFS R2

X X

Table 8. BIA Courses:


AOTR Awarding Officials Technical Representative BIA X X

Table 9. Other Courses:

Course


CEFM Continuing Education in Fuels Management (CEFM) Fuels Analysis Module

College/ Colorado State University

X X


6-8


FEI Forest Engineering Institute College/Oregon State University

X X

UC University Courses College/UC

X X X

FMAPlus Fuels Management Analysis Contractor/Carlton

X X

TFM Technical Fire Management Contractor/Washington Institute

X X

OPM OPM Supervisory Courses OPM X X X FOR 1210

Prescribed Fire PFTC X X

FOR 1210L

Prescribed Fire PFTC X X

RXFM Prescribed Fire Workshop for Fire Management Officers & Assistant Fire Management Officers

PFTC X X

ATV-TT ATV Torch Training Regional X X SPAC State Pesticide Application Certification State X X 6 Minutes

6 Minutes for Safety Wildfire LLC

X X X


6-9

Table 10. Wildland Fire Qualifications for Suppression and Fire Use Positions

Suppression

Advanced Firefighter/Squad

Boss FFT1 Single Resource

Boss ICT4 ICT3

S-130 Basic Firefighting

S-216 Driving for the Fire Service

S-200 Initial Attack IC

S-300 Extended Attack IC

S-131 Squad Boss

S-230 Crew Boss S-215 Fire Operations in the Urban Interface

S-330 Task Force Leader

S-190 Introduction to Fire Behavior

S-231 Engine Boss

S-211 Portable Pumps

S-234 Ignition Operations

S-212 Chain Saw S-260 Interagency Incident Business Management

S-281 Supervisory Concepts and Techniques

S-270 Basic Air Operations

I-100 Introduction S-290 Intermediate Fire Behavior

I-200 Basic ICS Appropriate Ignition

Devices (Aerial Ignition)

Prescribed Fire/Fire Use Ignition Specialist Burn Boss Fire Use Manager Prescribed Fire

Manager S-234 Ignition Operations

S-390 Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior Calculations

S-580 Advanced Fire Use Application

Position Task Book

HeloTorch/PSDO Training (as required)

S-301 Leadership and Organizational Development

S-490 Advanced Wildland Fire Behavior Calculations

S-491 Natural Fire Danger Rating System

RX 300 Prescribed Fire Burn Boss

RX 310/340 Intro. to Fire Effects


6-10

Prescribed Fire/Fire Use (cont.) Ignition Specialist Burn Boss Fire Use Manager Prescribed Fire

Manager RX 410 Smoke

Management

RX 510 Applied Fire Effects

M-580 Fire in Ecosystem Mgt.

M-581 Fire Program Management

BehavePlus NEPA training


Number of Times Course is Referenced (Sorted: Alphabetically)

Courses Times Referenced

*State Pesticide Applicator Certification Courses

1

1252.05 4 1252.06 1 1430.04 PV 2 1500.12 PV 2 1500.13 PV 4 1500.23 3 1530.23 3 1620.11 DL 2 1620.13 4 1620.17 1 1730.02 2 1730.05 2 1730.08 3 1730.10 1 1730.11 2 1730.28 1 1730.30 2 1730.33 2 1730.37 2 1730.48 1 1730.55 1 1730.56 2 1730.60 1 310.1 1 6 Minutes for Safety

2

7000.06 4 A 104 3 A 107 1 A 109 2 A 113/B3 3 A 201 3 A 204 3 AAR Workshop 1 Aerial Ignition Workshops

1


Agency Mentoring Programs/OJT

1

AGIS 1 Annual Fireline Refresher

2

AOTR 5 ATV Torch Training 1 BehavePlus (IMI DL option)

3

CEEM 2 CEFM 8 Concepts & Advanced Fuel Modeling

1

COR Training 5 CRS 5026 1 Directed Training Assignments (i.e. Developmental Hot Shot Crew, etc. )

1

ECS 3119 1 ECS 3121 10 Equipment Cert. 1 FIREMON 5 FireWise Workshops

2

FMAPlus 3 FMH 3 FPA 5 FRCC 3 FSM 5109.17 1 FUTA 2 FVS 3 GIS TEC 7111 1 GIS TEC 7112 1 GPS 2 GPS for Fire 2 GPS TEC 7132 1

6-11



GPS TEC 7133 1 Grants & Agreements Training

3

HAZMAT Courses 1 How to Partner with different Agencies

2

I 100 1 I 200 1 I 300 1 I 400 1 Interagency HeliTorch/ Mixing System Training

1

IQCS 1 L 280 6 L 380 9 L 381 3 Leadership Development

1

Learning Arc GIS 8 Part 1&2

1

LED 6129 1 LED 6166 2 LED 6174 4 LED 6175 4 LED 6176 3 M 410 3 M 580 4 M 581 29 Mechanical Fuels Treatment

7

NEPA 1900.1 9 NEPA Training 3 NFPORS 4 NFPORS Database Training

1

NRS 1050 5 NRS 2040 9 OPM Courses 3 OPM Supervision 1 OUT 8110 4 OUT 8111 2


OUT 8116 6 OUT 8118 2 PCHA 1 PFPI 8 PFTC 2 Plastics Sphere Dispenser Operator Training

1

PPM 3 RAMS 1 Regional Helo Courses/Workshops

3

RSK 6240 4 RX 300/3XX 29 RX 310/340 6 RX 410 23 RX 510 9 RX 80 7 RXFM 1 S 130 2 S 131 1 S 190 1 S 200 4 S 205 1 S 215 1 S 217 4 S 230 1 S 234 9 S 244 6 S 260 1 S 270 4 S 281 1 S 290 4 S 300 6 S 301 3 S 330 1 S 336 4 S 370 5 S 372 3 S 390 8 S 404 7 S 445 3 S 490 10

6-12



S 491 6 S 492 5 S 493 5 S 580 11 S 590 4 Sand Table Exercises (STEX)

1

SML 1001 1 SML 1102 2 SML 1103 2 Supervisory Satellite

1


TEC 7111 2 TEC 7112 2 TEC 7132 2 TEC 7133 2 Terra Torch Training

1

TFM 14 Wildland Fire Situation Analysis

4

WLD 2122 1

6-13


Number of Times Course is Referenced (Sorted: Numerically)

Courses Times

Referenced M 581 29 RX 300/3XX 29 RX 410 23 TFM 14 S 580 11 ECS 3121 10 S 490 10 L 380 9 NEPA 1900.1 9 NRS 2040 9 RX 510 9 S 234 9 CEFM 8 PFPI 8 S 390 8 Mechanical Fuels Treatment

7

RX 80 7 S 404 7 L 280 6 OUT 8116 6 RX 310/340 6 S 244 6 S 300 6 S 491 6 AOTR 5 COR Training 5 FIREMON 5 FPA 5 NRS 1050 5 S 370 5 S 492 5 S 493 5 1252.05 4 1500.13 PV 4 1620.13 4 7000.06 4 LED 6174 4


LED 6175 4 580 4 NFPORS 4 OUT 8110 4 RSK 6240 4 S 200 4 S 217 4 S 270 4 S 290 4 S 336 4 S 590 4 Wildland Fire Situation Analysis

4

1500.23 3 1530.23 3 1730.08 3 A 104 3 A 113/B3 3 A 201 3 A 204 3 BehavePlus (IMI DL option)

3

FMAPlus 3 FMH 3 FRCC 3 FVS 3 Grants & Agreements Training

3

L 381 3 LED 6176 3 M 410 3 NEPA Training 3 OPM Courses 3 PPM 3 Regional Helo Courses/Workshops

3

S 301 3 S 372 3

6-14



S 445 3 1430.04 PV 2 1500.12 PV 2 1620.11 DL 2 1730.02 2 1730.05 2 1730.11 2 1730.30 2 1730.33 2 1730.37 2 1730.56 2 6 Minutes for Safety 2 A 109 2 Annual Fireline Refresher

2

CEEM 2 FireWise Workshops 2 FUTA 2 GPS 2 GPS for Fire 2 How to Partner with different Agencies

2

LED 6166 2 OUT 8111 2 OUT 8118 2 PFTC 2 S 130 2 SML 1102 2 SML 1103 2 TEC 7111 2 TEC 7112 2 TEC 7132 2 TEC 7133 2 *State Pesticide Applicator Certification Courses

1

1252.06 1 1620.17 1 1730.10 1 1730.28 1 1730.48 1 1730.55 1 1730.60 1


A 107 1 AAR Workshop 1 Aerial Ignition Workshops

1

Agency Mentoring Programs/OJT

1

AGIS 1 ATV Torch Training 1 Concepts & Advanced Fuel Modeling

1

CRS 5026 1 Directed Training Assignments (i.e. Developmental Hot Shot Crew, etc. )

1

ECS 3119 1 Equipment Cert. 1 FSM 5109.17 1 GIS TEC 7111 1 GIS TEC 7112 1 GPS TEC 7132 1 GPS TEC 7133 1 HAZMAT Courses 1 I 100 1 I 200 1 I 300 1 I 400 1 Interagency HeliTorch/ Mixing System Training

1

IQCS 1 Leadership Development

1

Learning Arc GIS 8 Part 1&2

1

LED 6129 1 NFPORS Database Training

1

OPM Supervision 1 PCHA 1

6-15



Plastics Sphere Dispenser Operator Training

1

RAMS 1 RXFM 1 S 131 1 S 190 1 S 205 1 S 215 1 S 230 1


S 260 1 S 281 1 S 330 1 Sand Table Exercises (STEX)

1

SML 1001 1 Supervisory Satellite

1

Terra Torch Training

1

WLD 2122 1

6-16

Prescribed Fire/ Fuels Specialist Development Project Section 8:Section 7:

Section 7: Training Gap Analysis KSAs-to-Courses

For Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialists

Summary Overview: The following is a summary of recommendations determined through the training gap analysis process: • Table 1 lists KSAs (Working, Journey, and Expert levels) that were not sufficiently

covered by the courses reviewed. • Develop working level training (Table 2) that incorporates the following subject

areas: wildland fire science, policy and practice procedures, agency budget process, cooperating agency mission organization and operating procedures, NWCG working teams, and other coordinating groups, mechanical fuel treatments equipment and methodology, risk assessment and job hazard analysis processes, and complexity analysis.

• Develop journey/expert level training (Table 3) that incorporates wildland fire science; fuels and prescribed fire management policy, practices, and procedures; preparing program goals and objectives; applying corrective action to increase efficiencies; resolving issues with the use of research; agency and interagency budget procedures and coordination; prioritizing projects based on available funding and program goals; understanding and implementation of interagency agreements; understanding for full range of mechanical treatments; risk assessment and job hazard analysis processes; and complexity analysis.

• Incorporate KSAs (Table 4/Table 5A/Table 5B) into existing courses (supervisory and leadership training, and RX 300/3XX).

• Incorporate KSAs (Table 6) into new ignitions specialist course (S 234). Methodology: 156 courses, sponsored by NWCG, Federal Agencies, and private corporations, were reviewed to identify relevant KSAs for qualification as a Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist. The objectives of each course were reviewed to determine if the KSA was adequately addressed by the course. Table 1 lists KSAs that were not sufficiently covered by the courses reviewed and that are considered training gaps in the development of Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialists. These training gaps have been categorized as Working (W), Journey (J), and Expert (E) expertise levels. Knowledge, skills, and abilities cannot be gained from the formal training activities alone. Experience is a critical part of the development of the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialists skills. KSAs are developed through a process of knowledge acquisition from formal training activities, field practice, and application until mastery is achieved.

7-1


7-2

Table 1. Complete List of All KSAs Not Adequately Covered by Existing Training Courses

KSA GAP Expertise

Level I.A.1 Knowledge of wildland fire science.

Training is required for basic orientation for knowledge of wildland fire science for entry and working level.

W/J

I.A.2 Knowledge of fuels management and prescribed fire policies, practices and procedures.

Training is required earlier in the career path for fuels management and prescribed fire policies, practices and procedures.

W/J

I.A.12 Ability to prepare program goals and objectives.

Training is required learn and practice ability to prepare program goals and objectives.

J/E

I.A. 14 Ability to apply corrective actions to increase efficiencies and effectiveness.

Training is required for applying corrective actions to increase efficiencies and effectiveness.

J/E


Training is required for identifying and defining fire-related management issues, resolve the issues with available research, and make recommendations.

J/E


Training is required for knowledge of agency budget procedures.

W/J/E

I.B.2 Ability to prioritize projects based upon funding, program goals and objectives.

Training is required for practice ability to prioritize projects based upon funding, program goals and objectives.

J/E


Training is required in developing, implementing and monitoring a prescribed fire/fuels management budget.

J/E


PMS 310.1 Wildland and Prescribed Fire Qualification System Guide

W


IQCS W


Training is required for practice ability to apply employee training back into program and personal goals and objectives.

J/E


7-3

KSA GAP Expertise Level


Training is required in cooperating agencies' missions, organizations and operating procedures.

W

I.D.4 Knowledge of the organization and function of interagency fire organizations, such as National Wildfire Coordinating Group, National Multi-agency Coordinating Group, geographic area coordinating groups, state, tribal, and local groups.

Training is required in the organization and function of interagency fire organizations, such as National Wildfire Coordinating Group, National Multi-agency Coordinating Group, geographic area coordinating groups, state, tribal, and local groups.

W

I.D.6 Skill in working with interagency agreements and MOUs.

Training is required in working with interagency agreements and MOUs.

J/E


Training is required in research programs and general applications.

J/E


Training is required in integrating research results/technology transfer into planning goals and objectives.

J/E


Training is required in practice ability to identify and clarify fire management issues, and develop research recommendations, if necessary.

J/E

I.E.4 Ability to apply technology in fire management activities.

Training is required in technology applications and processes in fire management activities.

J/E


BehavePlus content nationally is inconsistent and not standardized as it is being taught at the present time.

W/J/E

III.A.1 Knowledge of the full range of mechanical fuel treatments.

Training is required in full range of mechanical fuel treatments.

W/J/E


7-4

KSA GAP Expertise Level

III.A.12 Skill in setting priorities and allocating resources involving multiple projects.

This is a critical skill when setting resource priorities for multiple projects and needs to be addressed in mentoring/OJT and emphasized in Leadership courses.

W/J/E

III.A.18 Knowledge of mechanical equipment, capabilities, and limitations.


W/J/E


Training is required in risk assessment process.

W/J/E

IV.C.2 Knowledge of job hazard analysis process.

Training is required in job hazard analysis process.

W/J/E

IV.C.3 Skill in developing and communicating job hazard analysis.

Training is required in developing job hazard analysis process.

W/J/E


Training is required in risk assessment based upon NWCG prescribed fire complexity rating system.

W/J/E


7-5

Table 2. Working Level Skills Gap Resolution

KSA GAP Resolution


Training is required for basic orientation for knowledge of wildland fire science for entry and working levels.

Standardize delivery of learning content for wildland fire science. Wildland fire science (suppression, Rx fire, prevention, fire use) is the interrelationship with ecological processes associated with soil, water, air, flora, fauna, fuel, cultural resources, economics, human society and landscapes. A Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist is one who integrates prescribed fire, smoke management, fuels modification principles and procedures, fire effects knowledge, and knowledge of scientific data collection and analysis principles into a comprehensive prescribed fire and fuels management program.


Training is required earlier in the career path for fuels management and prescribed fire policies, practices and procedures.

Standardize delivery of learning content for fuels management and prescribed fire policies, practices and procedures.


Training is required for knowledge of agency budget procedures.

Standardize delivery of learning content for knowledge of agency budget procedures.


PMS 310.1 Wildland and Prescribed Fire Qualification System Guide (Inconsistent interpretation and misunderstanding of 310-1)

Standardize delivery of learning content for entry level field level use


7-6

KSA GAP Resolution


IQCS Standardize delivery of learning content for entry level field level use. Expand distribution of recently developed training to field levels.


Training is required in cooperating agencies' missions, organizations and operating procedures.

Standardize delivery of learning content for understanding cooperating agencies' missions, organizations and operating procedures for entry level professional.


Training is required in the organization and function of interagency fire organizations, such as National Wildfire Coordinating Group, National Multi-agency Coordinating Group, geographic area coordinating groups, state, tribal, and local groups.

Standardize delivery of learning content for understanding coordinating groups, organizations and operating procedures for entry level professionals.


7-7

III.A.1 Knowledge of the full range of mechanical fuel treatments..


Standardize delivery of learning content for understanding the full range of mechanical fuel treatments for working level. *May require separate course(s) and/or geographic areas variations. -- Recommend that the Inter-Regional Mechanical Fuels Treatment Training taught by R2 should be expanded to full inter-agency use (funding, instructors, and by multiple cadres, etc.) taught several times per year.


7-8

KSA GAP Resolution


Training is required in full range of mechanical equipment, capabilities, and limitations.

Standardize delivery of learning content for understanding the full range of mechanical equipment, capabilities, and limitations for working level. *May require separate course(s) and/or geographic areas variations. -- Recommend a workshop be set up to present Missoula’s 0051-2826-MTDC Understory Biomass Reduction Method and Equipment Catalog.



Standardize delivery of learning content for understanding risk assessment process for project level.


Training is required in job hazard analysis process.

Standardize delivery of learning content for understanding job hazard analysis process for project level. *For this process training needs to be delivered in a facilitated process


Training is required in developing job hazard analysis process.

Standardize delivery of learning content for communicating and applying job hazard analysis process for project level. *For this process training needs to be delivered in a facilitated process


7-9

KSA GAP Resolution



Standardize delivery of learning content for applying risk assessment based upon prescribed fire complexity rating system for project level. *May require separate course(s) *For this process training needs to be delivered in a facilitated process


7-10

Table 3. Journey/Expert Level Skills Gap Resolution

KSA GAP Resolution


Training is required for application of knowledge of wildland fire science.

Standardize delivery of learning content for wildland fire science. Wildland fire (suppression, Rx fire, prevention, fire use) interrelationship with ecological processes associated with soil, water, air, flora, fauna, fuel, cultural resources, human society and landscapes. A Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist is one who integrates prescribed fire, smoke management, fuels modification principles and procedures, fire effects knowledge, and knowledge of scientific data collection and analysis principles into a comprehensive prescribed fire and fuels management program.


Training is required for application of fuels management and prescribed fire policies, practices and procedures.

Standardize delivery of learning content for fuels management and prescribed fire policies, practices and procedures.


Training is required in preparing program goals and objectives.

Standardize delivery of learning content for ability to prepare program goals and objectives.

I.A. 14 Ability to apply corrective actions to increase efficiencies and effectiveness.

Training is required in applying corrective actions to increase efficiencies and effectiveness.

Standardize delivery of learning content for applying corrective actions to increase efficiencies and effectiveness.


7-11

KSA GAP Resolution


Training is required for identifying and defining fire-related management issues, resolving the issues with available research, and making recommendations.

Standardize delivery of learning content for identifying and defining fire-related management issues, resolving the issues with available research, and making recommendations.


Training is required for developing, implementing, and managing agency budget procedures.

Standardize delivery of learning content for developing, implementing, and managing agency budget procedures.


Training is required to practice ability to prioritize projects based upon funding, program goals, and objectives.

Standardize delivery of learning content for ability to prioritize projects based upon funding, program goals and objectives.


Training is required for developing, implementing and monitoring a prescribed fire/fuels management budget.

Standardize delivery of learning content for understanding interagency budgets for journey and expert professional.


Training is required to practice ability to apply employee training back into program and personal goals and objectives.

Standardize delivery of learning content for ability to apply employee training back into program and personal goals and objectives *Add this to existing supervision training course(s)


Training is required in development, coordination, and implementation of various agreements and MOUs, and in choosing the appropriate agreement.

Standardize delivery of learning content for development, coordination, and implementation of various agreements and MOUs, and in choosing the appropriate agreement. *Link this training to I.D.7- working with contracting personnel.


7-12

KSA GAP Resolution


Training is required in how to obtain information on research programs.

Standardize delivery of learning content for obtaining information on research programs.


Training is required in applying research results/technology transfer into planning goals and objectives.

Standardize delivery of learning content for applying research results/technology transfer into planning goals and objectives.


Training is required in identifying and clarifying fire management issues, and developing research recommendations, if necessary.

Standardize delivery of learning content for ability to identify and clarify fire management issues, and develop research recommendations, if necessary. *This should be practical application


Training is required in identifying new technologies and incorporating them into fire management activities.

Standardize delivery of learning content for applying technology and processes in fire management activities. *Focus is on use of new technologies


7-13

KSA GAP Resolution

III.A.1 Knowledge of the full range of mechanical fuel treatments. III.A.18 Knowledge of mechanical equipment, capabilities, and limitations.

Training is required in mechanical equipment, capabilities, and limitations to address the full range of mechanical fuel treatments.

Standardize delivery of learning content for understanding mechanical equipment, capabilities, and limitations to address the full range of mechanical fuel treatments. *May require separate course(s) and/or geographic areas variations. -- Recommend expanding the Inter-Regional Mechanical Fuels Treatment Training taught by R2 to full inter-agency use (funding, instructors, and by multiple cadres, etc.) taught several times per year. -- Recommend setting up a workshop to present Missoula’s 0051-2826-MTDC Understory Biomass Reduction Method and Equipment Catalog. -- Other training options include attending trade shows and specific equipment demonstrations.


Training is required in applying risk assessment process.

Standardize delivery of learning content for applying risk assessment process for project level.


Training is required in applying job hazard analysis process.

Standardize delivery of learning content for applying job hazard analysis process for project level. *For this process training needs to be delivered in an interactive, facilitated process


7-14

KSA GAP Resolution


Training is required in developing and communicating job hazard analyses.

Standardize delivery of learning content for communicating and applying job hazard analysis process for project level. *For this process training needs to be delivered in an interactive, facilitated process


Training is required in mitigating risks using risk assessment process based upon NWCG Prescribed Fire Complexity Rating System Guide.

Standardize delivery of learning content for using risk assessment process based upon prescribed fire complexity rating system to mitigate risks for project level. *For this process training needs to be delivered in an interactive, facilitated process


7-15

Table 4. Supervisory Training Gap Resolution

KSA GAP Resolution


Training is required for supervisory positions to apply employee training back into program goals, personal goals, and objectives.

Standardize delivery of learning content for ability to apply employee training back into program goals, personal goals, and objectives for the journey/expert level.


7-16

RX 300/3XX KSAs Thirty KSAs that directly relate to the RX 300/3XX course were identified. The existing Prescribed Fire Burn Boss (RX 300) course is being modified and split into separate operational and burn plan preparation courses. Table 5A shows KSAs identified in the gap analysis process that should be incorporated into the revision of the courses. Table 5B lists other KSAs, not considered training gaps, but directly related to RX 300/3XX that should be incorporated into the revision of the courses. These KSAs are being brought forward to provide a complete list of KSAs to help the developers of RX 300/3XX in formulating the course content. Failure to incorporate the KSAs may result in additional gaps that would need to be added to Table 1.

Table 5A.

RX 300/3XX Gap Resolution

KSA GAP Resolution II.C.4 Skill in developing fire behavior prescriptions to meet objectives established in prescribed fire plans.

BehavePlus content nationally is inconsistent and not standardized as it is being taught at the present time.

Standardize delivery of content.


This is a critical skill when setting resource priorities for multiple projects and needs to be addressed in mentoring/OJT and emphasized in Leadership courses.

Recommend that L 280/380/381 and RX 300/3XX should be reviewed to ensure priority setting and allocating resources to multiple projects are included. Include a Prescribed Fire Manager unit as part of the RX 300/3XX.



Standardize delivery of learning content for understanding risk assessment process for project level



Standardize delivery of learning content for applying risk assessment based upon prescribed fire complexity rating system for project level


7-17

Table 5B KSAs Proposed for RX 300/3XX Revision

KSA

I.A.6 Knowledge of smoke management regulations, including EPA, state, tribal, local, and agency specific. I.A.8 Knowledge of prescribed fire techniques, wildland fire use, and fuels management methods and procedures. I.A.16 Ability to serve as technical consultant and authoritative expert on prescribed fire and fuels management to the line officer and/or fire management officer. I.A.19 Ability to maintain project records in accordance with agency policies. II.A.3 Ability to implement direction provided by laws and plans. II.A.6 Ability to resolve complex prescribed fire and fuels management issues that involve use and interpretation of conflicting fire and resource objectives, policies, or laws.II.B.1 Ability to collaborate with interagency participants, local groups, etc. (such as developing local fire management plans and community risk assessments). II.C.2 Knowledge of required components of the plans. II.C.5 Ability to develop project goals and objectives and treatment alternatives. II.C.6 Ability to ensure fuels management and burn plans are prepared and reviewed in accordance with agency policies. II.D.3 Knowledge of various smoke management regulations including federal, state, tribal, local and agency specific. II.D.4 Knowledge of smoke emission and dispersion models. II.D.5 Skill in implementing a smoke management program that complies with federal, state, tribal, local, and agency laws, regulations and policies. II.D.6 Ability to relate weather and fire behavior to expected smoke conditions. II.D.7 Ability to collaborate with state, local, and tribal air quality regulatory agencies. II.D.8 Knowledge of smoke mitigation techniques. III.A.14 Skill in documenting project daily status, fire behavior and effects, and financial obligations, etc. III.A.15 Ability to document, track, and report accomplishments following agency guidelines. III.A.17 Skill in performing as a Prescribed Fire Burn Boss, as defined by NWCG. III.A.19 Ability to coordinate with cooperating agencies (such issues as priority setting, resource sharing, and airshed management). III.A.20 Ability to schedule burning and evaluate current weather and burning conditions (includes discussion with National Weather Service). III.A.21 Ability to evaluate and validate weather and fuels data and resolve identified issues (such as weather observations, RAWS data, spot forecast information, and historical weather data). IV.B.1 Ability to conduct and integrate safety briefings and after action reviews. IV.C.5 Ability to identify, document, and communicate project specific hazards and risks.


7-18

IV.D.1 Skill in recognition and mitigation of a variety of miscellaneous hazards and risks encountered within the wildland fire environment and other work environments, i.e., aviation, mechanized equipment, smoke, and hazardous materials. IV.D.2 Ability to communicate mitigated hazards and risks.

Table 6 KSAs Proposed for S 234 Revision

Table 6 lists KSAs, not considered training gaps, but directly related to S 234 that should be incorporated into the revision of this course. These KSAs are being brought forward to provide a complete list of KSAs to help the developers of S 234 in formulating the course content. Failure to incorporate the KSAs may result in additional gaps that would need to be added to Table 1.

KSA I.A.8 Knowledge of prescribed fire techniques, wildland fire use, and fuels management methods and procedures. II.C.2 Knowledge of required components of the plans. II.D.8 Knowledge of smoke mitigation techniques. III.A.6 Knowledge of aerial and ground-based ignition methods and techniques. III.A.14 Skill in documenting project daily status, fire behavior and effects, and financial obligations, etc. III.A.17 Skill in performing as a Prescribed Fire Burn Boss, as defined by NWCG. IV.A.1 Knowledge and comprehension of the laws, policies and guidelines pertaining to safety such as the Code of Federal Regulations, national and agency policies and guidelines, 10 Standard Fire Orders, 18 Watchout Situations, and other related fire safety guidelines, including OSHA, DOT, and NWCG guidelines. IV.D.1 Skill in recognition and mitigation of a variety of miscellaneous hazards and risks encountered within the wildland fire environment and other work environments, i.e., aviation, mechanized equipment, smoke, and hazardous materials. IV.D.2 Ability to communicate mitigated hazards and risks.



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8-1

Section 8: Career Development Guide Introduction: The Career Development Guide for the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist is a planning tool for individuals to chart a successful career pathway. This guide is based on the Interagency Fire Program Management Qualifications Standards and Guide (IFPM) and highlights the Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs) related to this position. Additional KSAs have been added by a federal multi-agency subject matter expert (SME) group sponsored by the National Fuels Group. For each KSA and expertise level, the guide identifies available training that may satisfy that particular requirement. Alternate training may be available and/or additional agency requirements may apply. Experience is also a critical part of the development of the Prescribed Fire Fuels Specialists’ knowledge, skills and abilities. Purpose: This Guide enables you - a Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist - to plan your career, to identify your long and short term training goals, and to document your progress through training and experience assignments. You can use this tool to assist you and your supervisor in preparing your annual Individual Development Plan (IDP). By using this process, you will shorten the timeline to achieve full performance level. Overview: The Guide contains four major sections:

• Categories: Covers four major elements of the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist position: A. Program Management, B. Planning, C. Operations, and D. Safety and Welfare.

• Competencies: Each category is comprised of competencies supported by the KSAs. A competency is a combination of knowledge, skills and abilities, which allows a person to perform a task or function at a specifically defined level of proficiency.

• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities (KSAs): - Knowledge - facts or ideas acquired by study, investigation,

observation, formal training or experience. - Skills - proficiency in performing tasks that is acquired or developed

through training or experience. - Abilities - demonstrated mastery, competence or proficiency of what

has been acquired through learning. • Expertise Levels: Each expertise level (Working, Journey, and Expert)

identifies the courses, training or directed assignments that meet a specific KSA. The career pathway is divided into three expertise levels: Working, Journey, and Expert.


8-2

Expertise Levels Definitions:

WORKING – W JOURNEY – J EXPERT – E The minimum level of experience and/or training that it takes to produce work of acceptable quality.

Has sufficient experience to be considered a seasoned employee. Is skilled in performing the more difficult tasks related to the function. Has received advanced training in the function.

Reflects the quality of experience and/or training needed to perform the most challenging aspects of the position.

Common Denominators: Ten Common denominators among employees who have successfully advanced to the Expert level:

• Had personal initiative including using own time and money for education/training when necessary

• Had a supervisor that worked with the employee and provided great support and guidance

• Had strong commitment to develop a solid foundation and advance when appropriate

• Attended identified training courses and got the necessary experience to advance qualifications

• Participated as an instructor and in course development • Participated in accelerated training programs • Worked in a broad-based fuels program or transferred to get the necessary

experience • Managed part of the prescribed fire and fuels program • Participated in program evaluations • Supported with a mentor

How to Use the Guide: During the IDP process, relate your experience to KSAs and identify areas in which you need training or experience to meet the listed competencies. You do not have to take all of the courses listed for a KSA. You will need to select courses that best address the KSA requirements. Include that information in your annual IDP and work toward accomplishing those competencies. It is important that you and your supervisor assess/evaluate whether you have met the KSA. The career guide is a career development master plan; the expert level may take 15-20 years to achieve. The IDP, on the other hand, is an annual training plan. The career guide can help you prioritize training for your yearly IDP. This list of training sources is not all inclusive and this analysis has not considered all agency

Presc

8-3

lessons and courseand coursetraining provided by other federal agencies not provide all of the KSAs. Thmentoring programs, workshops, local traiand on-the-job training (OJT) will help y

ribed Fire/ Fuels Specialist Development Project Section 8:Section 7:

s. However, the most appropriate and readily available lessons s were investigated. Employees from any federal agency can attend

or their training centers. Training will erefore, agency orientation courses, agency

ning, symposia, details and assignments, ou to develop KSAs for the various tasks.


8-4

Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist Career Development Guide

Expertise Level Working Journey Expert Competency KSA Courses Courses Courses

Program Management A. Develop, implement and evaluate program goals and objectives in support of mission accomplishment. Implement corrective actions.

I.A.1 Knowledge of wildland fire science. RX 310/340

RX 310/340 RX 410 TFM

RX 510 TFM


M 581 M 581

I.A.3 Knowledge of natural resource management concepts, principles, and practices applicable to the full range of duties associated with fire management.

CEEM FRCC TFM

CEEM FRCC M 580 TFM

I.A.4 Knowledge of the integration of related fields such as forestry and range ecology and management, entomology, pathology, recreation, wildlife and vegetation management, soil science, air, and water.

NRS 1050

1730.08 CEEM FPM M 581 NRS 1050 TFM

1730.08 CEEM M 581 TFM

I.A.5 Knowledge of landscape and disturbance ecology including classification of fire regimes and condition classes.

RX 80

1730.37 1730.60 FRCC M 581 RX 80 RX 510

1730.37 1730.60 FRCC M 581 RX 510


8-5

Expertise Level

Working Journey Expert Competency KSA Courses Courses Courses

I.A.6 Knowledge of smoke management regulations, including EPA, state, tribal, local, and agency specific.

PFPI

7000.06 PFPI RX300/3XX RX 410

7000.06 RX300/3XX RX 410

I.A.7 Knowledge of fire effects as it relates to fuel modification and prescribed fire.

RX 80 RX 310/340

M581 RX 80 RX 310/340 RX 510

M 580 M581 RX 510

I.A.8 Knowledge of prescribed fire techniques, wildland fire use, and fuels management methods and procedures.

PFPI S 234

PFPI RX 300/3XX S 234 S 492

CAFM RX 300/3XX S 492 S 580

I.A.9 Knowledge of program monitoring and evaluation process and procedures to include the National Fire Plan.

FIREMON

FIREMON FMH FPA M 581 NFPORS PPM


I.A.10 Knowledge of reporting requirements and procedures.

NFPORS NFPORS

I.A.11 Ability to predict and interpret ecological effects of fire or its absence on a landscape basis and anticipate social and political response.

RX 310/340

CEFM FRCC M 581 RX 310/340 RX 510

CEFM FRCC M 581 RX 510


8-6

Expertise Level



NRS 1050 CEFM M 581 NRS 1050

CEFM M 581

I.A.13 Ability to monitor and evaluate prescribed fire/fuels management program elements and determine their effectiveness in meeting program goals and objectives.

FIREMON



I.A.14 Ability to apply corrective actions to increase efficiencies and effectiveness.

LDR Dev LDR Dev M 581

LDR Dev M 581


M 581 TFM

M 581 TFM

I.A.16 Ability to serve as technical consultant and authoritative expert on prescribed fire and fuels management to the line officer and/or fire management officer.

M 410 IRMFT

M 410 IRMFT RX 300/3XX TFM

M 410 RX 300/3XX S 590 TFM

I.A.17 Ability to identify alternative treatment options that include biomass utilization through opportunities such as timber harvest, stewardship contracts, and special forest products.

COR IRMFT NRS 1050

AOTR CEFM COR FVS M 581 IRMFT NRS 1050 TFM

AOTR CEFM FVS M 581 TFM


8-7

Expertise Level


I.A.18 Ability to provide technical expertise to participate on task groups, technical and program reviews, and review teams (such as escape fire investigations and financial audits).

NRS 1050

M 581 NRS 1050 S 490 S 491 S 492 S 493

M 581 S 490 S 491 S 492 S 493 S 590

I.A.19 Ability to maintain project records in accordance with agency policies.

1620.13 1620.17 COR 1900.1 NRS 2040 RX 80

1620.13 1620.17 AOTR COR NRS 2040 ECS 3121 1900.1 NFPORS NRS 2040 RX 80 RX 300/3XX

AOTR NRS 2040 ECS 3121 1900.1 NFPORS NRS 2040 RX 300/3XX

B. Develop, implement and evaluate fuels management budgets.


FPA LED 6129 PPM

FPA LED 6129 PPM


RAMS RAMS


GAP GAP GAP


8-8

Expertise Level


C. Supervise and develop employees. I.C.1 Knowledge of processes and sources of training.

1430.04 PV OPM Courses

1430.04 PV OPM Courses S 445

OPM Courses S 445


GAP GAP GAP


1252.05 1430.04 PV LED 6174

1252.05 1430.04 PV LED 6174 LED 6176 OPM Courses SSS

LED 6176 OPM Courses SSS

I.C.4 Ability to evaluate employee performance and take appropriate action.

1252.05 1252.06 L 280 LED 6174 LED 6175 S 281

1252.05 1252.06 1430.12 PV L 280 L 380 LED 6174 LED 6175 LED 6176 S 281 S 301

1430.12 PV LED 6176


LED 6175 OPM Courses

LED 6175 LED 6176 OPM Courses


I.C.6 Ability to develop and teach formal/informal prescribed fire and fuels management training.

M 410 M 410 M 410


8-9

Expertise Level


I.C.7 Knowledge of supervisory methods and techniques.

1252.05 L 280 LED 6174 LED 6175 SML 1102 SML 1103 OPM Courses

1252.05 L 280 LED 6166 LED 6174 LED 6175 SML 1102 SML 1103 OPM Courses S 301


I.C.8 Ability to lead and supervise. 11252.05 L 280 SML 1001

1252.05 L 280 SML 1102 SML 1103 LED 6166 LED 6174 LED 6175 S 301

LED 6166

D. Develop and maintain agency/bureau and interagency partnerships.

I.D.1 Knowledge of existing Cooperative Agreements, Memoranda of Understanding and Memoranda of Agreement.

OUT 8110 1500.23 1730.33 M 581 OUT 8110 OUT 8116 OUT 8118

1500.23 1730.33 M 581 OUT 8116 OUT 8118


GAP GAP GAP


8-10

Expertise Level


I.D.3 Knowledge of development of Cooperative Agreements, Memoranda of Understanding and Memoranda of Agreement.

OUT 8110

1500.13 PV 1500.23 1730.33 GAT M 581 OUT 8110 OUT 8116 OUT 8118

1500.13 PV 1500.23 1730.33 GAT M 581 OUT 8116 OUT 8118


GAP GAP GAP

I.D.5 Ability to prepare Cooperative Agreements, Memoranda of Understanding and Memoranda of Agreement.

OUT 8110

1500.13 PV 1500.23 1730.33 GAT OUT 8110 OUT 8116

1500.13 PV 1500.23 1730.33 GAT OUT 8116


1500.13 PV 1500.13 PV


8-11

Expertise Level


I.D.7 Ability in working with agreement and contracting personnel.

COR OUT 8110

1500.12 PV 1500.13 PV 1500.23 AOTR COR GAT OUT 8110 OUT 8116

1500.13 PV 1500.23 AOTR GAT OUT 8116

E. Identify research needs and apply new technologies.


GAP GAP GAP


GAP GAP GAP


RX 310/340 RX 310/340 RX 510 TFM

RX 510 TFM


IRMFT

1730.55 IRMFT

1730.55


8-12

Planning


A. Develop plans compliant with environmental laws, regulations and policies.

II.A.1 Knowledge of regional and local plans (Northwest Forest Plan, Columbia Basin, etc.).

1900.1

M 581 NRS 2040 ECS 3121 FPA 1900.1

M 581 NRS 2040 ECS 3121 FPA 1900.1

II.A.2 Ability to obtain essential information from partnering agencies (cooperating, regulatory and policy bodies affecting your program).

M 581 FPA RX 410

M 581 FPA RX 410

II.A.3 Ability to implement direction provided by laws and plans.

1620.11 DL 1620.13 1620.17 1900.1

1620.13 1620.17 1730.30 M 581 NRS 2040 ECS 3121 1900.1 RX 300/3XX RX 410 TFM

1620.13 1620.17 1730.30 M 581 NRS 2040 ECS 3121 1900.1 RX 300/3XX RX 410 TFM


8-13

Expertise Level


II.A.4 Knowledge of environmental laws, regulations, and policies including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Clean Air Act, Threatened and Endangered Species Act, and the Wilderness Act and the National Historical Preservation Act.

1620.13 1620.17 CRS 5026 1900.1

1620.13 1620.17 1730.30 7000.06 CRS 5026 M 581 1900.1 NRS 2040 ECS 3121 RX 410 WLD 2122

1620.13 1620.17 1730.30 7000.06 CRS 5026 M 581 1900.1 NRS 2040 ECS 3121 RX 410 S 580 WLD 2122

II.A.5 Ability to write environmental documents required in accordance with NEPA for prescribed fire and fuels management projects.

1620.11 DL 1620.13 NEPA 1900.1 ECS 3121

1620.13 NEPA ECS 3121 1900.1 NRS 2040 ECS 3121

1620.13 NEPA ECS 3121 1900.1 NRS 2040 ECS 3121

II.A.6 Ability to resolve complex prescribed fire and fuels management issues that involve use and interpretation of conflicting fire and resource objectives, policies, or laws.

1730.28 1730.37 M 581 RX 300/3XX RX 410 RX 510 RXFM

1730.28 1730.37 M 581 RX 300/3XX RX 410 RX 510 RXFM S 580


8-14

Expertise Level


B. Participate in agency and interagency interdisciplinary planning processes.

II.B.1 Ability to collaborate with interagency participants, local groups, etc. (such as developing local fire management plans and community risk assessments).

FWW Partnering OUT 8111

FWW Partnering OUT 8111 OUT 8116 RX 300/3XX

Partnering OUT 8116 RX 300/3XX

II.B.2 Ability to participate in interdisciplinary planning.

NEPA 1900.1

1730.08 NEPA NRS 2040 ECS 3121 1900.1

1730.08 NEPA NRS 2040 ECS 3121 1900.1

C. Prepare and review plans and/or plan components including, but not limited to: 1. Annual Operating Plans 2. Training plans 3. Prescribed fire, wildland fire use, and fuels management plans (chemical, mechanical, biological) 4. Safety plans 5. Individual project plans 6. Fire-effects monitoring plans 7. Integrate operations plans into unit and interagency plan 8. Programmatic plans 9. Monitoring plans

II.C.1 Knowledge of related natural resource fields sufficient to develop guidelines, criteria, policies, and procedures for the ecological aspects for the fuels management program.

NEPA 1900.1

1730.08 NEPA NRS 2040 ECS 3121 1900.1

1730.08 NEPA NRS 2040 ECS 3121 1900.1


8-15

Expertise Level


II.C.2 Knowledge of required components of the plans.

1900.1 PFPI S 234

ECS 3121 1900.1 NRS 2040 PFPI RX 300/3XX S 234

ECS 3121 M 580 1900.1 NRS 2040 RX 300/3XX S 580

II.C.3 Skill in developing a description and schedule of treatments to meet objectives established in the fuel management plan (to include mechanical, prescribed fire, chemical, and biological).

SPAC ECS 3119 PFPI

SPAC 1730.02 CEFM ECS 3119 FVS PFPI RX 310/340 RX 410 RX 510 S 390 S 490 S 492 S 493

CEFM FVS RX 410 RX 510 S 490 S 492 S 493


BH+ S 290

BH+ RX 300/3XX S 290 S 390 S 490

RX 300/3XX S 590


8-16

Expertise Level


II.C.5 Ability to develop project goals and objectives and treatment alternatives.

1900.1 NRS 1050

1730.02 CEFM ECS 3121 1900.1 NRS 1050 NRS 2040 RX 300/3XX RX 410 TFM

CEFM ECS 3121 1900.1 NRS 2040 RX 300/3XX RX 410 TFM

II.C.6 Ability to ensure fuels management and burn plans are prepared and reviewed in accordance with agency policies.

PFPI

M 581 PFPI RX 300/3XX

M 581 RX 300/3XX

D. Conduct smoke management planning and analysis.

II.D.1 Knowledge of health effects of smoke. RX 410 RX 410

II.D.2 Knowledge of air quality monitoring devices.

7000.06 RX 410

7000.06 RX 410

II.D.3 Knowledge of various smoke management regulations including federal, state, tribal, local and agency specific.

RX 300/3XX RX 410

RX 300/3XX RX 410

II.D.4 Knowledge of smoke emission and dispersion models.

RX 300/3XX RX 410

RX 300/3XX RX 410

II.D.5 Skill in implementing a smoke management program that complies with federal, state, tribal, local, and agency laws, regulations and policies.

M 581 RX 300/3XX RX 410

M 581 RX 300/3XX RX 410


8-17

Expertise Level


II.D.6 Ability to relate weather and fire behavior to expected smoke conditions.

BH+ RX 300/3XX S 290

BH+ RX 300/3XX RX 310/340 RX 410 S 290 S 390 S 490

RX 300/3XX RX 410 S 490

II.D.7 Ability to collaborate with state, local, and tribal air quality regulatory agencies.

7000.06 RX 300/3XX RX 410

7000.06 RX 300/3XX RX 410

II.D.8 Knowledge of smoke mitigation techniques.

S 234

RX 300/3XX RX 410 S 234

RX 300/3XX RX 410


8-18

Operations


A. Manage fuels, wildland fire use, and prescribed fire programs including but not limited to: 1. Fuels management projects (chemical, mechanical, and biological) 2. Prescribed fire activities 3. Priority setting/coordination 4. Logistics/support 5. Accomplishment Reporting 6. Project Monitoring 7. Wildland fire use

III.A.1 Knowledge of the full range of mechanical fuel treatments.

IRMFT IRMFT

III.A.2 Knowledge of methods for the collection, storage, retrieval, and analysis of results from fuels treatment and fire effects monitoring.

FIREMON

1730.05 CEFM FIREMON FMAPlus M 581 RX 510

CEFM FIREMON FMAPlus M 581 RX 510

III.A.3 Knowledge of fire behavior monitoring, prediction, adjustment, and documentation techniques.

BH+ S 244

BH+ S 244 S 390 S 490 S 492 S 493

S 490 S 492 S 493 S 590

III.A.4 Knowledge of fire weather, fire behavior and fire danger.

S 290

S 290 S 390 S 490 S 491

S 490 S 491

Competency KSA Expertise Level


8-19

Working Journey Expert

Courses Courses Courses III.A.5 Knowledge of the Interagency

Wildland Fire Implementation Guide. S 580

III.A.6 Knowledge of aerial and ground-based ignition methods and techniques.

ATV-TT S 234

AIW PSDOT IHTMS TTT ATV-TT S 234

AIW PSDOT IHTMS

III.A.7 Knowledge of fuel loading and moisture collection methods.

FIREMON RX 80

FIREMON FMAPlus RX 80 S 390 S 491 TFM

FIREMON FMAPlus S 491 TFM

III.A.8 Knowledge of Geographic Information and Global Positioning Systems.

1730.11 1730.48 1730.56 TEC 7111 TEC 7112 GPS GPS for ICS TEC 7132 TEC 7133

1730.11 1730.48 TEC 7111 TEC 7112 GPS GPS for ICS TEC 7132 TEC 7133 AGIS

GPS GPS for ICS AGIS


8-20

Expertise Level



BH+

BH+ FVS RX 410 S 390 S 490 S 491 S 492 S 493 TFM

FVS RX 410 S 490 S 491 S 492 S 493 TFM

III.A.10 Knowledge of contracting procedures (service contracts, Indian self determination contracts).

COR

AOTR COR

AOTR

III.A.11 Skill in implementing fire use, fuels modification, and prescribed fire plans.

FUTA IRMFT DTA PFTC

FUTA IRMFT DTA PFTC

DTA S 580


Agency Mentoring Programs



III.A.13 Skill in preparing and administering hazardous fuels reduction contracts (project inspector, COR, or COTR).

COR

1500.12 PV AOTR COR

AOTR


8-21

Expertise Level



S 234 S 244 S 260

RX 80 RX 300/3XX S 234 S 244 S 260

RX 300/3XX S 580

III.A.15 Ability to document, track, and report accomplishments following agency guidelines.

1730.11 1730.56 TEC 7111 TEC 7112 GPS GPS for ICS TEC 7132 TEC 7133 NFPORS PFPI RX 80

1730.11 TEC 7111 TEC 7112 GPS GPS for ICS TEC 7132 TEC 7133 AGIS NFPORS PFPI RX 80 RX 300/3XX

GPS GPS for ICS AGIS NFPORS RX 300/3XX

III.A.16 Ability to develop and implement monitoring plan.

FIREMON RX 80

1730.05 CEFM FIREMON FMH FMAPlus RX 80

CEFM FIREMON FMH FMAPlus RX 510


8-22

Expertise Level


III.A.17 Skill in performing as a Prescribed Fire Burn Boss, as defined by NWCG.

FUTA PFTC S 234

FUTA PFTC RX 300/3XX RX 410 S 234

RX 300/3XX RX 410


IRMFT

CEFM IRMFT

CEFM

III.A.19 Ability to coordinate with cooperating agencies (such issues as priority setting, resource sharing, and airshed management).

FWW Partnering OUT 8111

FWW Partnering M 581 OUT 8111 OUT 8116 RX 300/3XX RX 410 TFM

Partnering M 581 OUT 8116 RX 300/3XX RX 410 TFM

III.A.20 Ability to schedule burning and evaluate current weather and burning conditions (includes discussion with National Weather Service).

RX 300/3XX RX 410 S 490 S 491

RX 300/3XX RX 410 S 490 S 491

III.A.21 Ability to evaluate and validate weather and fuels data and resolve identified issues (such as weather observations, RAWS data, spot forecast information, and historical weather data).

S 244

PCHA RX 300/3XX RX 410 S 244 S 490 S 491 S 493 TFM

PCHA RX 300/3XX RX 410 S 490 S 491 S 493 TFM

Competency KSA Expertise Level


8-23

Working Journey Expert

Courses Courses Courses B. Support wildland fire program components to include but not limited to: 1. Strategy and tactics 2. Incident management 3. Appropriate management response 4. Wildland fire use

III.B.1 Knowledge of the Incident Command System component of National Interagency Incident Management System.

I 100 I 200

I 300

I 400

III.B.2 Knowledge of wildland and urban interface fire suppression strategies and tactics.

S 205

S 205 S 300 S 336 S 370

III.B.3 Knowledge of the full range of wildland fire appropriate management responses.

M 581 WFSA

M 581 S 580 WFSA

III.B.4 Knowledge of fire behavior, strategy and tactics, resources, equipment, and tools sufficient to safely, efficiently, and effectively direct the management of wildland fires up to Type 3 Incident Commander and Task Force Leader and Fire Use Manager.

L 280 S 130 S 131 S 190 S 215 S 230 S 290

L 280 L 380 M 581 S 190 S 290 S 330 S 390 S 490

M 581 S 490 S 580

III.B.5 Ability to implement the Interagency Wildland Fire Implementation Guide.

M 581 WFSA

M 581 S 580 WFSA


8-24

Expertise Level


C. Support unit fire aviation programs or operations as appropriate, including, but not limited to: 1. Tactical application of aircraft including aerial ignition methods and techniques 2. Aviation safety management 3. Administration

III.C.1 Knowledge of capabilities, limitations and approved safety standards and operating procedures of commonly used fixed and rotary-wing aircraft.

A 104 A 107 A 204 RHCW S 217 S 270

A 104 A 107 A 204 RHCW S 217 S 270 S 370 S 372

A 107

III.C.2 Knowledge of aviation administration requirements and procedures, such as contract solicitation, awarding and administration, fiscal accounting, etc.

A 111 A 202

A 111 A 202

A 111

III.C.3 Ability to ensure management of aircraft utilized in unit's prescribed fire operations is conducted in a safe and efficient manner, following established standards.

A 104 A 113/B3 A 109 A 201 A 204 RHCW S 217 S 270

A 104 A 113/B3 A 109 A 201 A 204 M 581 RHCW S 217 S 270 S 370 S 372

A 113/B3 M 581


8-25

Expertise Level


III.C.4 Ability to obtain compliance with established personnel safety requirements, such as training, personal protective equipment, determination of payloads, manifesting, flight following, crash/rescue response, etc.

A 104 A 113/B3 A 109 A 201 A 204 RHCW S 217 S 270

A 104 A 113/B3 A 109 A 201 A 204 L 380 RHCW S 217 S 270 S 370 S 372 S 404

A 113/B3 S 404


8-26

Safety & Welfare


A. Conduct prescribed fire/fuels modification operations in accordance with safety-related laws, policies and guidelines, including: 1. Occupational Safety and Health Act 2. Applicable state and tribal safety regulations 3. Department and agency policies and guidelines 4. NWCG guidelines 5. Department of Transportation (DOT) Regulations

IV.A.1 Knowledge and comprehension of the laws, policies and guidelines pertaining to safety such as the Code of Federal Regulations, national and agency policies and guidelines, 10 Standard Fire Orders, 18 Watchout Situations, and other related fire safety guidelines, including OSHA, DOT, and NWCG guidelines.

6 Minutes All “S” Courses appropriate to Position (S 217, S 234, and S 290 do not apply) Annual Refresher

6 Minutes All “S” Courses appropriate to Position (S 217, S 234, and S 290 do not apply) Annual Refresher M 581

6 Minutes All “S” Courses appropriate to Position (S 217, S 234, and S 290 do not apply) Annual Refresher M 581

B. Conduct safety related programs focusing on: 1. Training 2. Certification 3. Safety briefings 4. After Action Reviews 5. Lessons Learned Program(s)

IV.B.1 Ability to conduct and integrate safety briefings and after action reviews.

6 Minutes AAR L 280 S 200 STEX

6 Minutes AAR L 280 L 380 RX 300/3XX S 200 S 300 S 336 S 404 STEX

6 Minutes AAR RX 300/3XX S 200 S 404 STEX


Annual Refresher M 410 S 130

Annual Refresher L 380 M 410 M 581 S 300

Annual Refresher M 410 M 581


8-27

Expertise Level


C. Prepare job hazard analysis and risk assessment for Wildland and prescribed fire, and fuels management activities.


A 201 PFPI

A 201 PFPI RX 300/3XX S404 WFSA

RX 300/3XX S 404 S 580 WFSA


GAP GAP GAP


GAP GAP L 380

GAP


GAP PFPI

GAP PFPI RX 300/3XX S 404 WFSA

GAP PFPI RX 300/3XX S 404 WFSA

IV.C.5 Ability to identify, document, and communicate project specific hazards and risks.

S 200 S 244

L 380 L 381 RX 300/3XX S 200 S 244 S 300 S 404

L 381 RX 300/3XX S 404

Prescribe

8-28

D. Follwith a

n 7:


ow up identified hazards and risks ppropriate mitigation actions.

IV.D.1 Skill in recognition and mitigation of a variety of miscellaneous hazards and risks encountered within the wildland fire environment and other work environments, i.e., aviation, mechanized equipment, smoke, and hazardous materials.

A 113/B3 Equipment Cert. HZ L 381 IRMFT S 200 S 205 S 234 S 244 S 270

A 113/B3 Equipment Cert. HZ L 380 L381 IRMFT RX 300/3XX RX 410 S 200 S 205 S 234 S 244 S 270 S 300 S 336 S 370 S 404

A 113/B3 Equipment Cert. L 381 RX 300/3XX RX 410 S 404

IV.D.2 Ability to communicate mitigated hazards and risks.

S 200 S 234 S 244

L 380 RX 300/3XX S 200 S 234 S 244 S 300 S 336 S 404

L 381 RX 300/3XX S 404

d Fire/ Fuels Specialist Development Project Section 8:Sectio



PPrrooppoosseedd

PPeerrssoonnaall CCaarreeeerr RReeccoorrdd

March 2005


Section 9: Personal Career Record This document is one of two designed for individuals working in the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist position and is derived from the Interagency Fire Program Management Qualifications Standards and Guide (IFPM). The Personal Career Record is a tracking system for employees and their supervisors to document knowledge, skills, and abilities related to various position levels. The other document, the Career Development Guide, is intended to be used as planning tool to assist in developing individual development plans (IDPs). Employee’s responsibilities include the following:

- Develop your personal career goals. - Working with your supervisor, review the Career Development Guide to determine

the KSAs that apply to your current position and to identify training to achieve them.

- Working with your supervisor, develop your IDP. - At mid-year and year’s end, review your Personal Career Record and IDP with your

supervisor and document accomplishments. - Retain your original Personal Career Record and an IDP copy in your personal files.

Supervisor’s role includes the following:

- Work with employee on career guidance using the two tools: the Career Development Guide and the Personal Career Record.

- Work with employee on development of IDP - Document KSAs in Personal Career Record when employee shows proficiency. - Supervisors without a prescribed fire and fuels background may want to coordinate

with a technical specialist to ensure requirements were met. - At mid-year and year’s end, review the employee’s Personal Career Record and IDP,

and document accomplishments. - Conduct the employee’s annual Performance Appraisal and complete the Evaluation

Record located at the end of the Personal Career Record. Instructions for completing the Personal Career Record (begins on page 3): Fill out the blocks that correspond to the appropriate expertise level of the training or experience. Shaded areas following the KSA mean no entries are necessary at that level of expertise. (For example, KSA I.A.3 requires full competency at the journey level, so no additional training or experience is required at the expert level. KSA I.C.2 is an example where no training or experience is expected at the working level.) To record your training or experience: Training or Experience block

- Enter course title and/or number - For workshop, simulation, or exercise; enter title and location. - For experience, enter task description, title of project, location, etc.

Date block

- Enter the date completed and/or the duration.

9-1

Presc Evaluator b

Evaluator Record

ribed Fire/ Fuels Specialist Development Project Section 9:Section 7:

9-2

lock - Initial

- Supervisor completes evaluation record. Instructions are on page 31.


Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist I. Program Management

Competency A. Develop, implement and evaluate program goals and objectives in support of mission accomplishment. Implement corrective actions

Working Level Journey Level Expert Level KSA Training or

Experience Date Evaluator

Training or Experience

Date Evaluator Training or Experience

Date Evaluator

I.A.1 Knowledge of wildland fire science

I.A.2 Knowledge of fuels management and prescribed fire policies, practices and procedures

I.A.3 Knowledge of natural resource management concepts, principles, and practices applicable to the full range of duties associated with fire management

I.A.4 Knowledge of the integration of related fields such as forestry and range ecology and management, entomology, pathology, recreation, wildlife and vegetation management, soil science, air, and water

9-3






Date Evaluator

I.A.5 Knowledge of landscape and disturbance ecology including classification of fire regimes and condition classes

I.A.6 Knowledge of smoke management regulations, including EPA, state, tribal, local, and agency specific

I.A.7 Knowledge of fire effects as it relates to fuel modification and prescribed fire

I.A.8 Knowledge of prescribed fire techniques, wildland fire use, and fuels management methods and procedures

I.A.9 Knowledge of program monitoring and evaluation process and procedures to include the National Fire Plan

I.A.10 Knowledge of reporting requirements and procedures

9-4






Date Evaluator

I.A.11 Ability to predict and interpret ecological effects of fire or its absence on a landscape basis and anticipate social and political response

I.A.12 Ability to prepare program goals and objectives

I.A.13 Ability to monitor and evaluate prescribed fire/fuels management program elements and determine their effectiveness in meeting program goals and objectives

I.A.14 Ability to apply corrective actions to increase efficiencies and effectiveness

I.A.15 Ability to identify and define fire-related management issues, resolve the issues with available research, and make recommendations

9-5






Date Evaluator

I.A.16 Ability to serve as technical consultant and authoritative expert on prescribed fire and fuels management to the line officer and/or fire management officer

I.A.17 Ability to identify alternative treatment options that include biomass utilization through opportunities such as timber harvest, stewardship contracts, and special forest products

I.A.18 Ability to provide technical expertise to participate on task groups, technical and program reviews, and review teams (such as escape fire investigations and financial audits)

I.A.19 Ability to maintain project records in accordance with agency policies

9-6


Competency B. Develop, implement and evaluate fuels management budgets Working Level Journey Level Expert Level

KSA Training or Experience

Date Evaluator



Date Evaluator

I.B.1 Knowledge of agency budget procedures

I.B.2 Ability to prioritize projects based upon funding, program goals and objectives

I.B.3 Skill in developing, implementing and monitoring a prescribed fire/fuels management budget

9-7


Competency C. Supervise and develop employees Working Level Journey Level Expert Level


Date Evaluator



Date Evaluator

I.C.1 Knowledge of processes and sources of training

I.C.2 Knowledge of agency and interagency qualification and certification standards


I.C.4 Ability to evaluate employee performance and take appropriate action

I.C.5 Ability to apply employee training back into program and personal goals and objectives

I.C.6 Ability to develop and teach formal/informal prescribed fire and fuels management training

I.C.7 Knowledge of supervisory methods and techniques

I.C.8 Ability to lead and supervise

9-8


Competency D. Develop and maintain agency/bureau and interagency partnerships Working Level Journey Level Expert Level


Date Evaluator



Date Evaluator

I.D.1 Knowledge of existing Cooperative Agreements, Memoranda of Understanding and Memoranda of Agreement

I.D.2 Knowledge of cooperating agencies' missions, organizations and operating procedures

I.D.3 Knowledge of development of Cooperative Agreements, Memoranda of Understanding and Memoranda of Agreement

9-9






Date Evaluator

I.D.4 Knowledge of the organization and function of interagency fire organizations, such as National Wildfire Coordinating Group, National Multi-agency Coordinating Group, geographic area coordinating groups, state, tribal, and local groups

I.D.5 Ability to prepare Cooperative Agreements, Memoranda of Understanding and Memoranda of Agreement

I.D.6 Skill in working with interagency agreements and MOUs

I.D.7 Ability in working with agreement and contracting personnel

9-10


Competency E. Identify research needs and apply new technologies Working Level Journey Level Expert Level


Date Evaluator



Date Evaluator


I.E.2 Ability to integrate research results/technology transfer into planning goals and objectives

I.E.3 Ability to identify and clarify fire management issues, and develop research recommendations, if necessary

I.E.4 Ability to apply technology in fire management activities

9-11


II. Planning Competency A. Develop plans compliant with environmental laws, regulations and policies





Date Evaluator

II.A.1 Knowledge of regional and local plans (Northwest Forest Plan, Columbia Basin, etc.)

II.A.2 Ability to obtain essential information from partnering agencies (cooperating, regulatory and policy bodies affecting your program)

II.A.3 Ability to implement direction provided by laws and plans

II.A.4 Knowledge of environmental laws, regulations, and policies including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), Clean Air Act, Threatened and Endangered Species Act, and the Wilderness Act and the National Historical Preservation Act

9-12






Date Evaluator

II.A.5 Ability to write environmental documents required in accordance with NEPA for prescribed fire and fuels management projects

II.A.6 Ability to resolve complex prescribed fire and fuels management issues that involve use and interpretation of conflicting fire and resource objectives, policies, or laws

9-13


Competency B. Participate in agency and interagency interdisciplinary planning processes Working Level Journey Level Expert Level


Date Evaluator



Date Evaluator

II.B.1 Ability to collaborate with interagency participants, local groups, etc. (such as developing local fire management plans and community risk assessments)

II.B.2 Ability to participate in interdisciplinary planning

9-14


Competency C. Prepare and review plans and/or plan components including, but not limited to: 1. Annual Operating Plans 2. Training plans 3. Prescribed fire, wildland fire use, and fuels management plans (chemical, mechanical, biological) 4. Safety plans 5. Individual project plans 6. Fire-effects monitoring plans 7. Integrate operations plans into unit and interagency plan 8. Programmatic plans 9. Monitoring plans

Working Level Journey Level Expert Level


Date Evaluator



Date Evaluator

II.C.1 Knowledge of related natural resource fields sufficient to develop guidelines, criteria, policies, and procedures for the ecological aspects for the fuels management program

II.C.2 Knowledge of required components of the plans

9-15






Date Evaluator

II.C.3 Skill in developing a description and schedule of treatments to meet objectives established in the fuel management plan (to include mechanical, prescribed fire, chemical, and biological)

II.C.4 Skill in developing fire behavior prescriptions to meet objectives established in prescribed fire plans

II.C.5 Ability to develop project goals and objectives and treatment alternatives

II.C.6 Ability to ensure fuels management and burn plans are prepared and reviewed in accordance with agency policies

9-16


Competency D. Conduct smoke management planning and analysis Working Level Journey Level Expert Level


Date Evaluator



Date Evaluator

II.D.1 Knowledge of health effects of smoke

II.D.2 Knowledge of air quality monitoring devices

II.D.3 Knowledge of various smoke management regulations including federal, state, tribal, local and agency specific

II.D.4 Knowledge of smoke emission and dispersion models

II.D.5 Skill in implementing a smoke management program that complies with federal, state, tribal, local, and agency laws, regulations and policies. II.D.6 Ability to relate weather and fire behavior to expected smoke conditions

II.D.7 Ability to collaborate with state, local, and tribal air quality regulatory agencies

9-17






Date Evaluator

II.D.8 Knowledge of smoke mitigation techniques

9-18


III. Operations Competency A. Manage fuels, wildland fire use, and prescribed fire programs including but not limited to:

1. Fuels management projects (chemical, mechanical, and biological) 2. Prescribed fire activities 3. Priority setting/coordination 4. Logistics/support 5. Accomplishment Reporting 6. Project Monitoring 7. Wildland fire use





Date Evaluator

III.A.1 Knowledge of the full range of mechanical fuel treatments

III.A.2 Knowledge of methods for the collection, storage, retrieval, and analysis of results from fuels treatment and fire effects monitoring

III.A.3 Knowledge of fire behavior monitoring, prediction, adjustment, and documentation techniques

III.A.4 Knowledge of fire weather, fire behavior and fire danger

9-19






Date Evaluator

III.A.5 Knowledge of Interagency Prescribed Fire and Wildland Fire Use Implementation Guides

III.A.6 Knowledge of aerial and ground-based ignition methods and techniques

III.A.7 Knowledge of fuel loading and moisture collection methods

III.A.8 Knowledge of Geographic Information and Global Positioning Systems


III.A.10 Knowledge of contracting procedures (service contracts, Indian self determination contracts)

III.A.11 Skill in implementing fire use, fuels modification, and prescribed fire plans

9-20






Date Evaluator

III.A.12 Skill in setting priorities and allocating resources involving multiple projects

III.A.13 Skill in preparing and administering hazardous fuels reduction contracts (project inspector, COR, or COTR)


III.A.15 Ability to document, track, and report accomplishments following agency guidelines

III.A.16 Ability to develop and implement monitoring plan

III.A.17 Skill in performing as a Prescribed Fire Burn Boss, as defined by NWCG

III.A.18 Knowledge of mechanical equipment, capabilities, and limitations

9-21






Date Evaluator

III.A.19 Ability to coordinate with cooperating agencies (such issues as priority setting, resource sharing, and airshed management)

III.A.20 Ability to schedule burning and evaluate current weather and burning conditions (includes discussion with National Weather Service)

III.A.21 Ability to evaluate and validate weather and fuels data and resolve identified issues (such as weather observations, RAWS data, spot forecast information, and historical weather data)

9-22


Competency B. Support wildland fire program components to include but not limited to: 1. Strategy and tactics 2. Incident management 3. Appropriate management response 4. Wildland fire use





Date Evaluator

III.B.1 Knowledge of the Incident Command System component of National Interagency Incident Management System

III.B.2 Knowledge of wildland and urban interface fire suppression strategies and tactics

III.B.3 Knowledge of the full range of wildland fire appropriate management responses

III.B.4 Knowledge of fire behavior, strategy and tactics, resources, equipment, and tools sufficient to safely, efficiently, and effectively direct the management of wildland fires up to Type 3 Incident Commander and Task Force Leader and Fire Use Manager

9-23






Date Evaluator

III.B.5 Ability to implement the Interagency Wildland Fire Implementation Guide

9-24


Competency C. Support unit fire aviation programs or operations as appropriate, including, but not limited to: 1. Tactical application of aircraft including aerial ignition methods and techniques 2. Aviation safety management 3. Administration





Date Evaluator

III.C.1 Knowledge of capabilities, limitations and approved safety standards and operating procedures of commonly used fixed and rotary-wing aircraft

III.C.2 Knowledge of aviation administration requirements and procedures, such as contract solicitation, awarding and administration, fiscal accounting, etc.

III.C.3 Ability to ensure management of aircraft utilized in unit's prescribed fire operations is conducted in a safe and efficient manner, following established standards

9-25






Date Evaluator

III.C.4 Ability to obtain compliance with established personnel safety requirements, such as training, personal protective equipment, determination of payloads, manifesting, flight following, crash/rescue response, etc.

9-26


IV. Safety and Welfare Competency A. Conduct prescribed fire/fuels modification operations in accordance with safety-related laws, policies and guidelines, including:

1. Occupational Safety and Health Act 2. Applicable state and tribal safety regulations 3. Department and agency policies and guidelines 4. NWCG guidelines





Date Evaluator

IV.A.1 Knowledge and comprehension of the laws, policies and guidelines pertaining to safety such as the Code of Federal Regulations, national and agency policies and guidelines, 10 Standard Fire Orders, 18 Watchout Situations, and other related fire safety guidelines, including OSHA, DOT, and NWCG guidelines

9-27


Competency B. Conduct safety related programs focusing on: 1. Training 2. Certification 3. Safety briefings 4. After Action Reviews 5. Lessons Learned Program(s)





Date Evaluator

IV.B.1 Ability to conduct and integrate safety briefings and after action reviews

IV.B.2 Skill in the effective use of training and certification to achieve safety management objectives and ensure compliance

9-28


Competency C. Prepare job hazard analysis and risk assessment for Wildland and prescribed fire, and fuels management activities Working Level Journey Level Expert Level


Date Evaluator



Date Evaluator

IV.C.1 Knowledge of risk assessment process

IV.C.2 Knowledge of job hazard analysis process

IV.C.3 Skill in developing and communicating job hazard analysis

IV.C.4 Skill in developing risk assessment based upon prescribed fire complexity rating system

IV.C.5 Ability to identify, document, and communicate project specific hazards and risks

9-29

ribed Fire/ Fuels Specialist Development Project Section 9:Sect

9-30

ion 7: Presc

Competency D. Follow up identified hazards and risks with appropriate mitigation actions. Working Level Journey Level Expert Level


Date Evaluator



Date Evaluator

IV.D.1 Skill in recognition and mitigation of a variety of miscellaneous hazards and risks encountered within the wildland fire environment and other work environments, i.e., aviation, mechanized equipment, smoke, and hazardous materials

IV.D.2 Ability to communicate mitigated hazards and risks


Instructions for completing the Evaluation Record

- Record Number: Sequentially number each record. - Evaluator’s name: Print the evaluator/supervisor’s first and last name. - Position: Enter the evaluator’s title as it relates to the assignment. - Agency: Name of evaluator’s agency. - Evaluator’s Home Unit: Evaluator’s office location. - Phone Number: Evaluator’s home unit phone number. - Assignment Location: Place where assignment occurred or task was

completed. - Duration: Enter inclusive dates during which the employee was evaluated.

This block may indicate a span of time covering several small and similar incidents if the trainee has been evaluated on that basis over the course of six months to a year.

- Evaluator’s initials: Initial here to authenticate your recommendations and to allow for comparison with initials in the Qualifications Record.

- Remarks: Make comments regarding the future needs for development of this trainee.

- Signature: Evaluator signs here to authenticate the record. - Date: List the date the record is being completed.

When additional blocks are needed, copy a blank (unnumbered) record form.

9-31


Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist Evaluation Record

_______________________________________ TRAINEE NAME Record Number # 1

Evaluator’s name:

Position:

Agency:

Evaluator’s Home Unit: Phone:

Assignment Location:

Duration of evaluation period: Evaluator’s initials:

Remarks: Signature: Date: Record Number # 2

Evaluator’s name:

Position:

Agency:




Remarks: Signature: Date: Record Number # 3

Evaluator’s name:

Position:

Agency:




Remarks: Signature: Date:

9-32


Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist Evaluation Record

_______________________________________ TRAINEE NAME Record Number #

Evaluator’s name:

Position:

Agency:




Remarks: Signature: Date: Record Number #

Evaluator’s name:

Position:

Agency:




Remarks: Signature: Date: Record Number #

Evaluator’s name:

Position:

Agency:




Remarks: Signature: Date:

9-33

Prescribed Fire/ Fuels Specialist Development Project Error! Reference source not found.

Section 10: Specialist Presentation Slide 1

IInntteerraaggeennccyy FFiirree PPrrooggrraamm MMaannaaggeemmeenntt QQuuaalliiffiiccaattiioonnss SSttaannddaarrddss aanndd GGuuiiddee




TThhee NNaattiioonnaall IInntteerraaggeennccyy FFuueellss GGrroouupp

Specialist Overview

10-1


Slide 2

Prescribed Fire/Fuels Prescribed Fire/Fuels SpecialistSpecialist

Development ProjectDevelopment ProjectMarch 2005March 2005

This project was initiated in 2003 with preparation of the 2005 budget proposals and at the

request of the National Interagency Fuels and Fire Budget Groups.

10-2


Slide 3

Sponsored bySponsored byThe National Interagency The National Interagency

Fuels GroupFuels Group

Project funded by BLM, BIA, NPS, and FWS and supported by the USFS.

10-3


Slide 4

WorkgroupWorkgroup

• Phil Range - BLM• Kevin Walsh - NPS• Hal Luedtke - BIA• Brad Washa - BLM• Rod Dykehouse - FS• Gary Kemp - FWS

• Phil Weston - PFTC• Alan Olson - NIFC• Emily Irwin - FUTA• Wendell Welch - NIFC• General Dynamics

Dr. Wiley BolandDr. Viki Bowen

This group has worked on the project since it started. Gary Kemp transferred to NPS midway through the project and was not replaced. Phil Range, Chairman, BLM, Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist, National Office, Boise, ID Kevin Walsh, NPS, Regional Fuels Specialist (SER), Atlanta, GA Hal Luedtke, BIA, Regional Fuels Specialist, Albuquerque, NM Brad Washa, BLM, State Prescribed Fire Specialist, Utah SO, Salt Lake City, UT Rod Dykehouse, USFS, Fire Management Officer, Bridger-Teton NF, Jackson Hole, WY Gary Kemp, FWS, Regional Fuels Specialist, R5, MA Phil Weston, FWS, Director, Prescribed Fire Training Center, Tallahassee, FL Emily Irwin, USFS, Center Manager, Fire Use Training Academy, Albuquerque Al Olson, BLM, Training Specialist, National Interagency Fire Center, Boise, ID Wendell Welch, Distance Learning Specialist, National Interagency Fire Center, Boise, ID Dr. Wiley Boland, Sr. Training Manager, General Dynamics, Orlando, FL Dr. Viki Bowen, Sr. Training Manager, General Dynamics, Orlando, FL

10-4


Slide 5



– Increase Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA)



For the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist position, these objectives were identified in the 2005 Budget Proposal. The workgroup reviewed the Common and Specific Competencies in the Interagency Fire Program Management Qualifications Standards and Guide for the Prescribed Fire and Fuels Specialist. The Common Competencies apply to all positions, and the workgroup assumed that the IFPM Implementation Team, agencies, education centers would develop the necessary training for all fire employees to accomplish them. This workgroup only dealt with specific competencies, identifying those knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) needed for the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist position. An employee’s development is heavily dependent on their type of education and experience. From that foundation, with knowledge of what is required for the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist, an employee and supervisor can layout a pathway for development. Identified KSAs guide the development. To reduce the time it takes it achieve full performance level, the supervisor and employee need to have all the information related to the position available to them. Because this was to be a long range planning tool, the terms “career guide” and “career record” were chosen rather than “task book.” When the employee and supervisor have all the requirements of the position, training and experience assignments can be focused and an IDP prepared. Career ladders can be developed when all the information is available. Knowing what training and education is required and available provides a path for the employee.

10-5


Slide 6

Guiding DocumentsGuiding Documents• Interagency Fire Program Management

Qualifications Standards and Guide• Wildland and Prescribed Fire Qualification

System Guide-PMS 310-1• Federal Agencies’ Prescribed Fire/Fuels

Specialist Position Descriptions • Federal Agencies Training Centers course

offerings• Course & unit objectives

Interagency Fire Program Management Guide - This document sets requirements for fire qualification, job competencies, KSAs, and expertise levels. Wildland and Prescribed Fire Qualification System Guide – Denotes ICS and Prescribed Fire positions requirements. The workgroup reviewed a variety of standardized position descriptions from the five federal agencies that were available as of January 2004. Federal training centers from which course materials were reviewed: BLM’s National Training Center located in Phoenix, AZ FWS’s National Conservation Training Center (NCTC) at Shepherdstown, WV NPS’s Albright Center at Grand Canyon, Mather Center at Harper’s Ferry, and the Capital Center in Washington, DC. USFS at NAFRI, Graduate School Program, and their National training list through universities. BIA - has the greatest opportunity to benefit from this effort since they have no training centers. By having the courses identified, they have access to other agencies’ training. Course and unit objectives were compared with the KSAs in the IFPM.

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Workgroup Review ProcessWorkgroup Review Process• Reviewed the Interagency Fire Program

Management Qualifications Standards and Guide• Reviewed Federal Agencies’ Prescribed

Fire/Fuels Specialist Position Descriptions • Validated, modified, or added KSAs• Identified existing training courses and materials• Collected Course/Unit Objectives• Related training materials to KSAs• Identified training gaps and recommended

resolutions• Developed Career Guidance Tools

IFPM: This is the project foundation document. A significant amount of work occurred over the last 7 years working toward agreement and approval by the agencies (NPS, FWS, BLM, BIA, and USFS) and departments (Interior, Agricultures, and OPM). IFPM was approved as of October 1, 2004 with implementation to be completed by 2009. The document covers the Prescribed Fire and Fuels Specialist and 13 other fire positions. The IFPM competencies and KSAs were developed about 1996. Since then, the new direction from the National Fire Plan resulted in increased workload and many changes, such as more mechanical treatments, reporting requirements, and contracting. Agencies hired many employees under both the GS-455/462 and the GS-401 position descriptions. There were many transfers between agencies. Consistency in training and qualifications of the Prescribed Fire and Fuels Specialist among the agencies is needed. Review Position Descriptions: The IFPM used circa 1996 position descriptions to identify KSAs. However, each agency has modified their position descriptions in the last five years based on the National Fire Plan and other reviews. The workgroup reviewed the KSAs in those current position descriptions to identify competencies and KSAs not identified in 1996. Validate, modify, and added KSAs: Changes and additions to the KSAs in the IFPM were suggested based on knowledge of the program and information from the revised position descriptions review. Identifying existing training: Course materials fit into two categories, fire (suppression and prescribed fire) and resource management. For the NWCG fire suppression and prescribed fire courses, acquiring materials was not a problem. This is understandable since the fire qualifications were designed to develop a person in specific suppression and prescribed fire qualifications. The resource management courses and materials were more difficult to find. Also, they were developed for the resource specialist and had a different emphasis. These resource management courses were also not developed to meet specific KSAs for the Prescribed Fire and Fuels Specialist. Collected copies of course and unit objectives: Members of the workgroup identified courses. People in the Prescribed Fire and Fuels Specialist positions were contacted to see what training they had received and thought valuable to the personal development. Most of the course documentation came from agency training centers. Course and unit objectives to KSAs: Course and unit objectives from 155 courses were compared against the revised KSAs to see if the courses addressed the KSAs. If the course addressed one or more KSAs, then the course was listed. Identify gaps: As courses were reviewed, it was apparent some KSAs were not addressed. Training gaps -- areas where KSAs were not or were barely covered -- started to emerge. A Training Gap Analysis document was prepared with recommendations for future actions. Developed Career Guidance tools: The Career Development Guide and the Personal Career Record were developed to provide employees and supervisors necessary information about the KSAs for the position. These tools let employees and supervisors know what training and work experience is required for full performance at different stages in their careers and where it can be acquired.

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IFPM Critical InformationIFPM Critical Information

• Competencies• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities• Program elements• Expertise levels

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Competency Competency

A “competency” is defined as a combination of knowledge, skills, and abilities which, when acquired, allow a person to perform a task or function at a specifically defined level of proficiency.

- IFPM

To develop a person to a full qualifications level, the agencies need to know what KSAs are

required for the position. The IFPM provides this guidance.

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Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesKnowledge, Skills, and Abilities• Knowledge - facts or ideas acquired by study,

investigation, observation, formal training or experience.

• Skills - proficiency in performing tasks that is acquired or developed through training or experience.

• Abilities - demonstrated mastery, competence or proficiency of what has been acquired through learning.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities are key to the job.

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Program Elements for the Program Elements for the Prescribed Fire/Fuels SpecialistPrescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist

• Program Management• Planning• Operations• Safety and Health

From the Interagency Fire Program Management Qualifications Standards and Guide four elements are identified and all competencies and KSAs are grouped within. Program Management covers: - develop, implement, and evaluate program goals and objectives - develop, implement, and evaluate fire management budgets - supervise and develop employees - develop and maintain agency/bureau and interagency partnerships - identify research needs and apply new technologies Planning covers: - develop plans compliant with environmental laws, regulations, and policies - participate in agency and interagency planning processes - prepare and review plans and/or plan components covering operations, training, prescribed fire/fuels, safety, fire effects, smoke, etc. Operations covers: - manage fuels and prescribed fire program projects, activities, coordination, logistics, and reporting - manage wildland fire program components, strategy and tactics, incident management, and appropriate management response - manage unit fire and aviation program/operations as appropriate Safety and Welfare covers: - conduct prescribed fire/fuels operations in accordance with safety-related laws, policies and guidelines - conduct safety education programs - prepare hazard, risk, and trend analyses - identify hazards and risks with appropriate mitigation actions

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Expertise LevelsExpertise Levels• Working - The minimum level of experience and/or

training that it takes to produce work of acceptable quality.

• Journey - Has sufficient experience to be considered a season employee. Is skilled in performing the more difficult tasks related to the function. Has received advance training in the function.

• Expert - Reflects the quality of experience and/or training needed to perform the most challenging aspects of the position.

- IFPM

The IFPM identifies three expertise levels.

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Workgroup ProductsWorkgroup Products

• Proposed KSAs revisions mapped to courses

• Course List w/ ownership & expertise levels• Career Development Guide• Personal Career Record

Several products have been developed from this project. Each will be discussed.

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Project ObjectivesProject Objectives

• Identify Qualifications and Training Opportunities and Requirements to:

– Increase Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)



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Career Timeline for the Career Timeline for the Prescribed Fire/Fuels SpecialistPrescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist


20 yrs12 yrs


15 yrs8 yrs

New Goal

Current

An employee’s development is heavily dependent on their type of education and experience. From that foundation, with knowledge of what is required for the Prescribed Fire/Fuels Specialist, an employee and supervisor can layout a pathway for development. With this information, employees can realistically attain journey level in 8 years and expert level in 15 years. This shortens the timeline significantly from current anecdotal estimates of 12 years to reach journey level and 20 years to reach expert level. Common denominators among employees who have advanced faster than this timeline are: Had personal initiative including using own time and money for education/training when necessary Had a supervisor that worked with the employee and provided great support and guidance Had strong commitment to develop a solid foundation and advance when appropriate Attended identified training courses and got the necessary experience to advance qualifications Participated as an instructor and in course development Participated in accelerated training programs Worked in a broad-based fuels program or transferred to get the necessary experience Managed part of the prescribed fire and fuels program Participated in program evaluations Supported with a mentor Using the Career Development Guide and the Personal Career Record will help identify training and experiences that need to be included in employees’ annual development plans. Using the tools, employees and supervisors can work from the same approved document and plan several years ahead.

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Ten Common DenominatorsTen Common Denominators• Had personal initiative including using own time

and money for education/training when necessary

• Had a supervisor that worked with the employee and provided great support and guidance

• Had strong commitment to develop a solid foundation and advance when appropriate

• Attended identified training courses and got the necessary experience to advance qualifications

• Participated in accelerated training programs

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Ten Common Denominators (cont.)Ten Common Denominators (cont.)

Participated as an instructor and in course development

• Worked in a broad-based fuels program or transferred to get the necessary experience

• Managed part of the prescribed fire and fuels program

• Participated in program evaluations

• Supported with a mentor

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Now What?Now What?

• You have career information related to your position. Review it!

• Use the Career Guide and Career Record.• Work with your supervisor and personnel shop.• Develop your individual development plan.• Plan ahead 2-3 years; consider long term goals.• Capture the opportunities available to you.• Stay informed about the IFPM implementation.

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