This position is located in the Southwestern Region, Region 3. Responsible for developing objectives, plans and policies for Regional UAS Program. Serves as an expert in UAS operations and provides principal support to the Aviation Operations Division Manager (AOM) and/or Regional Aviation Officer (RAO). For additional information about the duties of this position, please see the Additional Information section for POC and location negotiable..

Duties

Is responsible for providing technical and programmatic oversight for UAS operations in the Region primarily for wildfire, but also for project activities. Applies knowledge of forest fire protection resources, methods, organization, tactics, and costs. Development of new or improved methods of utilizing aircraft for fire detection and suppression, and in analyzing aircraft capabilities in fire-connected missions. Serves as the principal advisor in the development and implementation of policies, programs, and standard practices for UAS operations and specialized aviation projects. Develops, reviews, and analyzes new or proposed UAS aviation policies, procedures, and guidelines that impact a significant organizational segment of an agency. Provides oversight for the planning, development and training programs for UAS personnel. Advises the Regional Aviation Officer in all aspects of the UAS program and provides advice and assistance to Forests within the Region. Plans and supervises UAS operations, evaluates ground facilities, and develops and conducts training. Reviews and evaluates UAS operations, and related UAS equipment, procedures, and practices. Conducts and leads reviews and inspections of Forest Service facilities and operations to assure adherence to agency policies, contract requirements, and operational plans. Establishes and maintains collaborative relationships and partnerships with State, local government, and Federal land management agencies. Works with supervisor on objectives and program of work assignments. Serves as a member of the Regional Aviation Leadership Team when so directed.

Requirements

• Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
• Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service or exempt.
• Subject to satisfactory adjudication of background investigation and/or fingerprint check.
• Successful completion of one-year probationary period, unless previously served.
• Per Public Law 104-134 all Federal employees are required to have federal payments made by direct deposit to their financial institution.
• Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit E-Verify.
• Must be 18 years of age.
• This is a drug testing designated position. You will be subject to pre-employment and random drug testing. Appointment is based on a negative result. This announcement constitutes 30 days advance notice.
• Subject to one year supervisory/managerial probationary period unless prior service is creditable. New USDA supervisors must successfully complete all components of the required training program before the end of their probationary period.
• Minimum of 90 days of wildland firefighting experience is required.
• Willing to live/work in remote locations (volatile/unpredictable).
• Some Fire positions may have Conditions of Employment such as: a valid state driver's license; a commercial driver's license (CDL); pre-appointment and random drug testing; or a physical or medical examination.
• There may be additional Conditions of Employment not listed here, however applicants will be notified of any specific requirements at the time a tentative job offer is made.

Qualifications

In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards. Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary. Specialized Experience Requirement: GS-13: You must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-12 grade level. Examples of specialized experience are: Advising and consulting with employees, contractors and cooperators to assist in the evaluation and implementation of proposed complex regulatory changes in UAS aviation management; developing and implementing all policies, standards, and procedures to guide and control the whole range of complex, often unique and hazardous UAS aviation activities supporting resource management and protection programs; and/or serving as a qualified technical investigator on UAS accident investigations, reviews, and follows-up on actions. Selective Placement Factors A minimum 90 days experience performing on-the-line (Primary/Rigorous) wildland fire suppression duties as a member of an organized fire suppression crew or comparable unit that utilized knowledge of wildland fire suppression, containment or control techniques and practices under various conditions. This experience must be documented with specific dates in the online application or resume. OR A minimum 90 days of aerial wildland fire suppression experience in fire retardant drops or air attacks (ATGS). This experience must be documented with specific dates and detailed duties that show your 90 days of on-the-line experience in the online application or resume. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. FIREFIGHTER RETIREMENT COVERAGE: This is a secondary position covered under the special retirement provisions of 5 USC 8336(c) for the Civil Service Retirement System and of 5 USC 8412(d) for the Federal Employees Retirement System. To receive consideration for this position, you must provide updated required documents and meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

Education

Contacts

• Address USDA Forest Service HRM Contact Center DO NOT MAIL IN APPLICATIONS, SEE INSTRUCTIONS IN THE ANNOUNCEMENT Albuquerque, NM 87109 US
• Name: HRM Contact Center
• Phone: 1-877-372-7248 X2
• Email: [email protected]