Natural Resource Specialist - State Wildland Fire Aviation Manager

Forestry Department

Natural Resource Specialist 4 - State Wildland Fire Aviation Manager

Employee

$6,834 - $10,076

Hybrid Remote Work

The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) is seeking an experienced and forward‑thinking leader to serve as our next State Wildland Fire Aviation Manager. This pivotal role directs all business of the Aviation Unit within the Protection Division and ensures ODF maintains the capability to mount a coordinated, statewide aviation response to emerging and active wildfire threats. The State Wildland Fire Aviation Manager provides critical staff support to 12 State and Association Forest Protection Districts and oversees aviation operations, safety, and policy for the agency.

To protect and promote resilient forests that benefit all Oregonians.

• Work/life balance, 11 paid holidays a year, flexible work schedules, competitive benefits packages and so much more.
• Great Benefits Package - watch this video here.

You’ll be part of the ODF team that serves our fellow Oregonians relying on regulation and protection of both public and private forest land in our great state of Oregon! .

This position is Hybrid Remote Work. The duties of this position are performed remotely as well as at our central office in Salem. The ability to report to Salem or field offices is required when business or operational needs are dependent on onsite activities.

Responsibilities include:

• Aviation Operations Management Lead statewide aviation operations for coordinated wildfire response.
• Serve as ODF’s primary aviation expert and advisor.
• Develop and manage aviation contracts and agreements.
• Ensure district compliance with ODF policy and FAA regulations.
• Oversee aviation personnel qualifications and manage unit budgets.
• Aviation Policy Leadership Interpret federal and state aviation regulations and advise agency leadership.
• Develop aviation policy, directives, and guidance materials.
• Aviation Safety Management Lead aviation safety and aircraft incident/accident investigations.
• Maintain the statewide aviation safety plan and review district plans.

Experience managing fire aviation operations involving fixed‑wing and rotary‑wing aircraft.

Demonstrated leadership experience managing complex programs, operations, and multidisciplinary teams.

Knowledge of national aviation policy, FAA regulations, aviation safety standards, and applicable state and federal aviation requirements.

Experience developing, implementing, and evaluating policies, procedures, safety programs, and operational guidelines.

Experience negotiating and administering contracts, interagency agreements, and cooperative aviation arrangements.

Demonstrated experience coordinating aviation operations and resources with local, state, federal, military, and private‑sector partners.

Knowledge of wildfire suppression operations, incident management systems, and interagency emergency response coordination.

Strategic planning, problem‑solving, conflict resolution, and decision‑making skills.

Preference may be given to applicants who hold a CAM (certified aviation manager).

• Three years of professional level experience in Aviation Management, Supervision, Evaluative, Analytical and/or Planning work.
• At least one year of the experience must be at a technical or professional level performing activities in a natural resource program such as researching and analyzing data, applying pertinent laws and regulations, or coordinating and monitoring project activities.
• AND A bachelor's degree in Forestry, Aviation Management, Business Administration, or a closely related field of study.
• OR Three…