Extension Prescribed Fire Specialist

Job Summary

The Department of Forestry and Natural Resources is seeking a self-motivated and enthusiastic candidate for an Extension Prescribed Fire Specialist position. Under general supervision, this position will be responsible for coordinating, conducting, and leading prescribed fires and prescribed fire training and outreach across Indiana. This position will also be responsible for supporting the formation of Prescribed Burn Associations (PBA) and supporting the Indiana Prescribed Fire Council (INPFC). In addition, this individual will work closely with Indiana conservation partners to develop prescribed fire training and outreach that builds the capacity and support for prescribed fire on public and private land in Indiana.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Collaborating with Purdue Faculty and Staff, Sam Shine Foundation, INPFC, and other partners to identify and address training and outreach needs for prescribed fire
• Coordinating and supporting the formation and persistence of PBAs across Indiana by utilizing existing information and applied research in coordination with Purdue Faculty and staff
• Coordinating and leading prescribed fire trainings to support training and certification needs for PBAs and the Indiana Certified Prescribed Burn Manager program
• Planning and conducting public engagement and outreach events related to prescribed fire - this may also include educational workshops, short courses and/or seminars
• Assisting with creating resources (e.g., publications, videos, etc.) needed to support prescribed fire training and outreach efforts
• Engaging with and contributing to the Indiana Prescribed Fire Council and other conservation partners in efforts related to expanding prescribed fire capacity and support in Indiana
• Providing functional onsite leadership and be a crew member on prescribed fires for trainings and as needed

What We're Looking For:

• Master’s degree in Natural Resources, Forestry, Wildlife Management, or related field
• 1 year of relevant experience
• In lieu of degree, an equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered (Bachelor's + 3 years of experience; Associates + 5 years; HS/GED + 7 years)
• Have current certifications or ability to obtain certifications related to prescribed fire. Preference given to any of the following certifications:
  • • NWCG – Firefighter Type 2 (FFT2)
    • NWCG – Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 1 or 2 (RxB1 or 2)
    • TNC – Prescribed Fire Crew Member (RxCM)
    • Indiana Certified Prescribed Burn Manager (CPBM)
    • CPBM from other states
• Experience leading or being a crewmember on prescribed fires
• Experience writing for and presenting to a public audience
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Familiarity with logic model development and implementation
• Knowledge of prescribed fire ecology, practices, and laws and regulations
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Proficiency with computers, Microsoft Office Suite, and Zoom
• Ability to work independently while accomplishing project goals and maintaining deadlines
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and partners
• Willingness to travel across Indiana for in-person trainings and meetings, including overnight stays
• Willingness to work some evenings and weekends
• Must be able to pass Arduous Work Capacity Test (“pack test”)
• Ability to work outside in adverse conditions, lift or carry 25 to 50 lbs frequently or up to 60 lbs. occasionally

Nice to Have:

• Previous professional experience with forest and non-forest ecosystems in Indiana and the broader Midwest
• Previous experience in an extension or outreach education role
• Previous experience working with private landowners
• Demonstrated experience in developing and delivering training programs

What We'd Like You to Know:

• Funding for this position is available for three years and yearly continuation is based on meeting agreement deliverables
• Hybrid work arrangements preferred (with remote work arrangement negotiable)
• The expectation includes attending important in person events and meetings as necessary, as well as engaging as a member of the Purdue Forestry and Natural Resources community
• Duty station location is negotiable, with a desire for this position to be in southern Indiana.
• Learn more about Purdue’s benefits summary, https://bit.ly/3sHGbls
• Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• A Background Check is required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contributions Waiting Period
• Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply

Career Stream

Professional 2

Pay Band S060
Link to Purdue University's compensation guidelines: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/mngcareer/compguidelines/index.php
Job Code #20003122
Link to Career Path Maker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/

• Effective August 1, Purdue implemented a new background screen policy: any internal transfer will receive a new background screen if one has not been run within the last year.
  

Why Purdue?
Purdue University is a place where every role contributes to the pursuit of excellence, innovation, and community impact. As part of the Indianapolis team, you’ll help drive Purdue’s continued growth and success—supporting leaders who are advancing research, education, and engagement in Indiana and beyond. Here, your talent and initiative will be valued, and your work will make a difference every day.

Who We Are

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

EO

Purdue University is an EO/EA University.