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Epidemiologist

Position Description

Introduction

The purpose of this position is to act as an advisor and technical specialist in the assessment and identification of current or potential situations which could cause infection or illness in first responders, park incumbents, or visitors as the result of an all-hazard incident.

Duties

  • Performs preliminary evaluation of the incident to determine the potential for illness or disease such as may be caused through water contamination, noxious fumes, exposure to chemicals, dead or injured wildlife, etc.
  • Implements the emergency response component of the Park Unit Health and Safety Plan.  Takes action necessary to assess the risk, and secure the scene appropriately.  Initiates action to implement the Incident Command System, and/or to request assistance from local/national public health resources.
  • Performs activities to control the situation such as monitoring water/wastewater systems, inspecting food service facilities and sanitation facilities, placing warning signs, or implementing institutional controls such as evacuation, and area closures.
  • Identifies the source and characteristics of the health hazard as well as any other potential health risks associated with the incident.  Takes appropriate action to mitigate risks identified.
  • Cooperates with and assists other emergency response resources.  Ensures proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and adherence to all safety procedures.
  • Directs and participates in decontamination/cleanup operations, and post-incident analysis activities.
  • Prepares and presents briefings regarding health issues encountered.  Receives situation reports and stays informed of mission objectives and status changes.
  • Performs additional tasks or duties as assigned during a response.

Position Knowledge and/or Requirements

  • Operational knowledge of the Incident Command System (ICS), and the development and use of integrated action planning concepts and processes.
  • Knowledge of emergency response requirements such as those included in a typical Park Health and Safety Plan.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of epidemiological concepts, principles and practices applicable to the conduct of evaluations of health risks associated with a variety of all-hazard incidents.
  • Knowledge is required to identify the potential for the spread of disease carried by airborne or waterborne agents, molds and fungus, and infected wildlife or domestic animals.
  • Knowledge of health hazards associated with exposure to a variety of chemicals and compounds used in park operations, or in industrial operations near or adjacent to a park unit.
  • Knowledge is required to recommend effective measures for the control and elimination of health risk factors identified.
  • Expert knowledge of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements and use in operations where health risks are present.
  • Ability to communicate effectively orally, and in writing.

Supervisory Controls

Work direction is provided by the incident commander or other designated manager.  As the senior advisor/specialist in the field, the technical work is performed independently.  The incumbent may act as a team lead during the evaluation/assessment phase of the operation.  Work is reviewed for acceptability and compliance with operating instructions and procedures.

Guidelines

Guidelines include Federal standards and criteria documents, agency manuals, established practice, past evaluation reports, and a variety of technical literature including professional journals, textbooks, and literature published by agencies such as the Center for Disease Control (CDC).  Problems encountered are not always covered by guidelines.

The incumbent uses independent judgment in locating and selecting the most appropriate guidelines, references and procedures based on the situation at hand, and the potential for serious illness or disease as the result of exposure to a particular agent, virus, or bacteria.

Complexity

The incumbent responds to a wide variety of incidents which require diverse skills, often involving critical life-threatening situations such as exposure to chemical or biological agents released by spills, explosions, fires, or floods, and for which toxicological information is sketchy.  Emergency response in these situations often involves decision-making and action in extremely adverse physical and emotional conditions and ability to function effectively in controversial and/or sensitive situations.  Work requires application and modification of established practices in most areas of responsibility, with considerable individual discretion and judgment exercised in emergency situations to ensure the health and safety of first responders and park visitors.

Scope and Effect

The purpose of this position is to identify, evaluate, and control health hazards during and after an all-risk incident.

The work results in the containment or elimination of the health hazard, providing a safe environment for incumbents, visitors, and park neighbors.

Personal Contacts

Personal contacts are with local agency emergency response personnel, and/or incident management team personnel during the duration of the incident.  Additional contacts may be made with public health professionals from a number of state and federal agencies, media operations, park visitors, special interest groups, and others interested and assisting with the incident.

Purpose of Contacts

The purpose of contacts is to provide briefings, health information, and issue orders, as well as to relay incident information to and from the incident management team and other team members, and to provide information and assistance to public health officials.

Physical Demands

Work routinely involves physically rigorous assignments and strenuous activity.  Incumbent must maintain excellent physical condition to carry out responsibilities, including the ability to perform assessment and evaluation tasks while wearing heavy and cumbersome PPE.  Response to emergency situations often requires clear reasoning and decisive action under conditions of extreme mental and physical stress.

Work Environment

Work environment is indoors and outdoors in all types of weather, night or day, and for prolonged periods of time.  The incumbent is subject to exposure to a variety of hazardous substances, toxic fumes, and extreme heat or cold.

 

NWCG Latest Announcements

NEW! Incident Performance and Training Modernization Story Map Now Available

Date: Aug 26, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
National Wildfire Coordinating Group

NWCG is excited to announce the launch of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) Story Map, a new interactive resource that showcases how NWCG is transforming wildland fire training and qualifications through a performance-based system.

Since its launch in 2023, IPTM has made major strides in updating how we manage incident positions:

  • 36 incident positions now have new Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books available for field use
  • 6 more incident positions are nearing completion
  • 111 total incident positions are being analyzed through the IPTM initiative

The Story Map guides you through the IPTM process, highlights key accomplishments, and outlines what’s ahead. Whether you are a trainer or a trainee, this tool offers valuable insight into the modernization effort shaping the future of wildland fire training and qualifications.

This effort would not be possible without the contributions of NWCG staff, NWCG committees, and hundreds of subject matter experts across the wildland fire community.

References:

IPTM Story Map

Incident Performance and Training Modernization Webpage

NEW! S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended) Available Now

Date: Aug 15, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that the S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended) training is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal. S-290 (Blended) training combines online training and instructor-led training components that support individuals working towards any Single Resource Boss or Fire Effects Monitor incident qualifications.

This second course in the series collectively serves to develop fire behavior prediction knowledge and skills, and provides more detailed information on fuels, weather, and topography that affect wildland fire behavior for safety purposes.

Students are required to finish the prerequisite S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior, before enrolling in S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended).

References:

S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended)

S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

NEW! S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended) Now Available

Date: Aug 14, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Interagency Helicopter Operations Subcommittee

The S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended) is now available. Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Helicopter Crewmember (HECM) incident qualifications. 

S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended) training combines online training and instructor-led training components. This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of the HECM position, as described in the NWCG Incident Position Standards for Helicopter Crewmember, PMS 350-22.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1, scheduled for January 2026.

References:

S-271, Helicopter Crewmember (Blended)

NWCG Helicopter Crewmember (HECM) Position Page

Wildland Fire Learning Portal

Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books Now Available for FBAN and LTAN

Date: Aug 13, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is excited to announce that Incident Position Standards and Next Generation Position Task Books are now available for Fire Behavior Analyst (FBAN) and Long Term Fire Analyst (LTAN).

The Performance Support Packages for these positions were developed as part of the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort. These resources support trainees, qualified personnel, and evaluators in their respective roles.

Any changes to qualification pathways will take effect with the next update of the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1, scheduled for January 2026.

References:

NWCG Fire Behavior Analyst Position Page

NWCG Long Term Fire Analyst Page