TFS Dispatcher

Job Description

The TFS Dispatcher I is responsible for the dispatch of agency and inter‑agency resources for response, and for the dissemination of daily intelligence reports regarding fire danger, resource availability, weather data, lightning maps, fire weather warnings, duty times, available supervisors and dispatch area response activity. The role also includes record‑keeping, reporting, and coordination with state wildfire management systems.

• Dispatch assigned resources and act as a communication link for incidents, aviation management, and logistical support.
• Maintain current and accurate records of resource availability and monitor resources to wildfires or other activities.
• Serve as a communication link, keeping situational awareness and relaying information to field personnel and supervisors.
• Travel overnight when required for meetings or training.
• When on‑call or as directed, carry a cell phone after hours and be available to report to the dispatch center within 30 minutes.
• Coordinate resource availability, weather data, duty times, and supervisors; monitor weather changes and communicate regularly with field personnel.
• Maintain all dispatch records and logs, provide feedback on dispatch systems and procedures, and ensure timely completion of fire reports.
• Assist with the implementation of new systems and technologies that enhance operational information flow and situational awareness.
• Coordinate and review processing of FAMIS transactions, mileage reports, travel vouchers, and purchase orders.
• Act as a collection point for assigned branches for NWCG task books, verifying completeness and accuracy of associated documents.
• Support the local cache specialist by assisting with the cache inventory system, processing orders, billing, and moving received cache shipments.
• Manage TFS credit cards, vehicle log books, daily activity time reports, and assigned equipment in accordance with applicable laws, policies, and procedures.
• Participate in necessary training to maintain readiness and support agency training efforts related to incident and wildfire management.
• Become eligible for additional out‑of‑state duty in accordance with the Wildland Fire Qualification System Guide (PMS‑310‑1).
• Provide support for other programs as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Must be able to adjust to a quick pace in emergency response, work extended hours with short notice, and handle up to 16‑hour shifts during peak fire season with hours exceeding a 40‑hour Monday‑Friday work week.

• Required
  
  Education:
  
  High school graduate or equivalent.
• Preferred Education: Formal education in emergency response dispatch or another communication field.
• Required Experience: None.
• Preferred Experience: Experience in wildland firefighting or emergency response dispatch, familiarity with state radio/dispatch protocol.

• Required Knowledge: PC‑based programs and software.
• Preferred Knowledge: PC usage in reporting and tracking of emergency response incidents.
• Required Skills: Good oral and written communication.
• Required Ability: Ability to multitask and work cooperatively with others.

• Required: Valid Texas driver’s license or ability to acquire one within 30 days.
• Preferred: NWCG RADO and Dispatch recorder.

Texas A&M University System offers a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life, and long‑term disability insurance, retirement benefits, paid time off, health and lifestyle programs, educational incentives, and tuition reimbursement. Additional benefits include the ability to accrue compensatory time off and overtime on emergency response.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.