Incident Training Specialist

TNSP Incident Position Description

The Incident Training Specialist coordinates training opportunities on Type 1 and 2 incidents. They provide training expertise to incident trainees and ensures training documentation is complete for incident and trainee records.  The TNSP reports to the Planning Section Chief or other assigned supervisor. The TNSP works in the Planning functional area.​

Leadership Level 1, Follower (Provide Action)

• For additional information review Level 1 description, expected behaviors and knowledge, suggested development goals, and self-study opportunities.

Prepare and Mobilize

• Ensure individual readiness. Maintain a thorough knowledge of current position standards and qualification requirements, including the NWCG Wildland Fire Position Qualification Flowchart, PMS 308, and the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1.
• Obtain necessary material for kit, including agency/geographic area specific forms and those listed in the TNSP Field Guide.
• Gather critical information pertinent to the assignment.
• Travel to and check in at assignment.
• Review the Incident Action Plan (IAP) for information affecting utilization of trainees.  
• Obtain briefing, objectives, and intent from supervisor.

Build the Team

• Obtain work area, supplies, and communications equipment necessary to complete assignment.
• Participate in operational briefings as directed.
• Share knowledge of training/qualification system and processes as appropriate with trainees and evaluators.
• Establish and maintain positive interpersonal and interagency working relationships.

Perform Training Specialist-Specific Duties

• Identify trainees from various sources, including incident-assigned, host agency, and geographic area Priority Trainee Program.
• Evaluate the incident for training potential. Discuss training with Command and General Staff and other incident personnel.
• Initiate and maintain the Training Assignment List Form (fillable version).
• Identify trainees and evaluators who are willing and available to participate in the training program.
• Ensure the trainee has an initiated Position Task Book (PTB) and trainee position indicated on Incident Qualification Card.
• Share current information about status of incident trainees using Incident Trainee Data Form and Incident Training Summary Form, as needed.
• Facilitate individual trainee interviews. Interview trainees, coaches, and evaluators; first individually, then together.
• Verify trainee qualifications, prepare trainee data forms, and develop goals and tasks.
• Monitor the quality and effectiveness of the training assignments and schedule progress reviews for trainees.
• Conduct the final incident trainee interview, using Incident Trainee Exit interview form.

Communicate and Coordinate

• Meets regularly with both trainee and trainer to evaluate and ensure proper progress with an assignment.
• Coordinate with sections and units involved with the training program.
• Participate in functional area briefings and section After Action Reviews (AARs).

Manage Risk

• Identify potential conflicts and resolve within the same operational period, if possible.
• Apply the Risk Management Process as stated in the NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG), PMS 461:
  • Identify Hazards
  • Assess Hazards
  • Develop Controls and Make Risk Decisions
  • Implement Controls

Document

• Complete Activity Log (ICS 214).
• Crew Time Report (CTR), SF-261 (Watch: How to correctly fill out a CTR)
• Prepare and maintain Training Specialist Forms:
  • Incident Trainee Data (fillable version)
  • Training Assignment List (fillable version)
  • Incident Training Summary (fillable version)
  • Incident Trainee Exit interview (fillable version)
  • Home Unit Letter (fillable version)
• Complete Incident Personnel Performance Rating (ICS 225 WF) for each trainee.
• Check that Position Task Books are properly completed by evaluators.
• Prepare documentation for trainee’s home units, to include Home Unit Letter, ICS 225 WF, and copy of PTB evaluation record.
• Compile documentation for final incident package.

Demobilize

• Coordinate an efficient transfer of position duties when mobilizing/demobilizing (e.g., incoming IMT, host agency). Ensure continuity of operation and exchange all critical information.
• Return equipment and supplies to the appropriate unit.
• Demobilize and check out, upon receiving demobilization instructions from the incident supervisor.

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