T

The Nature Conservancy

Engine Boss

Grounds & LandscapingUpdated on Nov 12
Full-time

About the Job

Requirements

  • A high school diploma and one year of training in fire operations, a science-related field, or a similar field, or related experience in land management.
  • Qualification as a Type 1 Fire Fighter (Squad Boss) and successful completion of the FFT1 task book.
  • Two or more seasons as a Senior Burn Crew Member or an equivalent agency qualification.
  • Ability to meet physical fitness standards set by the local Fire Manager and the TNC Fire Manual.
  • Experience operating and maintaining various types of equipment.
  • Experience supervising staff or volunteers.
  • Ability to perform heavy physical work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
  • A valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program, including completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement and possible motor vehicle record review.
  • Ability to keep abreast of new burn techniques and equipment and maintain or grow professional fire certification credentials.

Responsibilities

  • Oversee a Type VI engine crew of 1–3 crew members in wildland fire activities as directed by a Burn Boss or other command position.
  • Participate in preparing fire lines, maintaining equipment, implementing prescribed fire, and conducting post-burn monitoring.
  • Perform other preserve management duties when conditions are not conducive to prescribed fire.
  • Build and maintain relationships in the professional fire community and in the local community where the Conservancy works.
  • Participate in wildland fire suppression activities with partner organizations and agencies, either as a TNC employee or as a volunteer or short-term employee of a partner entity.
  • Lead the Type VI engine crew and handle daily oversight, time reporting, accomplishment tracking, logistics planning, purchases, and overall crew safety.
  • Use and maintain wildland fire equipment and ensure readiness of the Type VI engine and crew members.
  • Assist with ecologically based prescribed burns in hardwood forests; the program typically assists with burning 10,000 to 25,000 acres per season.
  • During the part-time as-needed period, work with staff and begin planning for the burn crew's arrival in February.

Desired Qualifications

  • Three years of training in fire operations or another science-related field, or related experience in land management or a similar field.
  • Multilingual skills and multicultural or cross-cultural experience.
  • Ability to work in a team environment.
  • Ability to evaluate inputs in a rapidly changing work environment and make decisions affecting firefighter safety and engine-crew work.
  • Faller 3 or Faller 2 qualification, or UTV operator experience.
  • Computer familiarity, including database knowledge, to maintain preserve records.
  • Experience driving off-road, loading, and towing trailers.
  • Ability to work remotely with little in-person contact with the supervisor.
  • A valid Incident Qualification Card.
  • Related licenses or certifications such as First Aid/CPR and herbicide application may be required.

About the Company

The Nature Conservancy is a global non-governmental organization that protects lands and waters to conserve nature and support human well-being. It works on science-led conservation projects around the world, partnering with communities, governments, and businesses to protect biodiversity, restore ecosystems, and address climate change. Its approach involves on-the-ground land and water protection, habitat restoration, sustainable resource practices, and policy advocacy, all guided by data and collaboration rather than partisan agendas. What sets it apart is its large, international footprint, long track record, and emphasis on measurable conservation outcomes through partnerships rather than relying on a single technology or product. The goal is to create a world where people can thrive alongside healthy ecosystems for generations to come.

Company size
5,001-10,000
Company stage
Grant
Total funding
$9.3M
Headquarters
Arlington County, VA
Founded
1951

Recently Posted Jobs

Explore more opportunities at The Nature Conservancy

See more jobs