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Initial Attack Dispatcher

Position Description

Duties

  • Utilizes and maintains forms and records (dispatch logs, flight requests/schedules, resource orders, accounting codes logs, etc.).
  • Demonstrates ability to utilize computers and dispatch applications (weather, situation reports, aviation, resource tracking, and computerized dispatch).
  • Utilizes and interprets maps (topographic maps for navigation).
  • Plots fire locations using coordinate systems.
  • Directs resources to plotted locations.
  • Uses established methods to collect pertinent information and produce intelligence products (daily fire observations, resource status, fire statistics, etc.).
  • Retrieves and distributes intelligence products (spot weather, am/pm forecasts, weather alerts, lighting, fire behavior trends, etc.).
  • Monitors, prioritizes and coordinates radio traffic involving multiple frequencies.
  • Dispatches tactical resources according to hosting agency procedures.
  • Working knowledge of aircraft capabilities, use and safety; cost effective aircraft mission requirements.
  • Identifies hazards and deconflicts airspace (frequency management, TGR, airspace coordination, MOA, MTR, etc.).
  • Plans and implements flight following procedures.
  • Dispatches tactical aircraft (airtankers, smokejumper aircraft, lead planes, air attack platforms, and helicopters).
  • Provides and coordinates logistical support for initial and extended attack.
  • Uses local and national protocol to process off unit requests and travel arrangements.
  • Implements established emergency (non-suppression) dispatch plans (crash rescue, medevac, search and rescue, law enforcement, etc.).
  • Ensures appropriate documentation is completed according to agency policy.

Position Knowledge and/or Requirements

  • Capable of performing all duties in the initial attack of resources in support of incidents
  • NWCG certified
  • EDSD qualified
  • S-130, Firefighting Training
  • S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior
  • Fireline experienced

 

Last Modified/Reviewed:

NWCG Latest Announcements

NWCG Website Migration

Date: April 01, 2024
Contact: NWCG Webmaster

The National Wildfire Coordinating Group is thrilled to announce a significant upgrade to https://www.nwcg.gov, involving a comprehensive redesign of over 7,000 web pages. This enhancement is focused on improving user experience. The migration to the new NWCG website will commence on April 2, 2024, starting at noon EST and is expected to take a few hours. 

During the migration period, as the www.nwcg.gov domain-name-location updates across the Internet, you might encounter either the current or the new site depending on your location. We request your patience during this transition. If you are not redirected to the new site by April 3, 2024, we recommend clearing your browser’s cache and refreshing the page.

Please note that while navigating the revamped website, there may be instances of broken links or errors. Our dedicated web migration team has made significant efforts to minimize such issues prior to launch and will promptly address any that arise via use of analytic reports. We value your patience and understanding as we work towards enhancing your overall website experience.

WFSTAR 2023 Year in Review and 2024 Core Component Module Packages Available

Date: March 6, 2024
Contact: Joe Schindel 

The 2023 Fire Year in Review module and 2024 Core Component Module Packages for RT-130, Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR) are now available on the NWCG website. The 2024 Core Component Module Package provides all content needed to deliver RT-130.

 

References:

WFSTAR 2023 Fire Year in Review module

WFSTAR 2024 Core Component Module Packages

2024 NWCG Executive Board Annual Letter

Date: March 6, 2024
Contact: NWCG

The NWCG Executive Board is privileged to share with you the 2024 NWCG Executive Board Annual Letter. As we look into the future and navigate an incredibly complex and dynamic environment, we must remain focused on our mission while actively engaging in national conversations regarding numerous wildland fire initiatives. In 2024, we prioritize building upon our successes and committing to continuous improvement. Key priorities and considerations for this year include: 

  • Determining Core Workload
  • Ensuring Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) Success
  • Improving Efficiencies
  • Firefighter Health and Wellness
  • Engagement in National Conversations

Together we will continue to make significant strides in the challenging and vital work that lies ahead. 

 

References:

2024 NWCG Executive Board Annual Letter

NWCG Welcomes NASA

Date: February 22, 2024
Contact: NWCG

NWCG welcomes the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) as an associate member.

“As wildfires become larger and more frequent, NASA is working to apply our scientific and technological knowledge toward this national challenge, and integral to our approach is forging collaborative partnerships,” said NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy. 

 

References:

NASA News Release

NWCG