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Radio Operator

RADO Incident Position Description

The Radio Operator (RADO) works in the incident communications center and is responsible for receiving and transmitting radio and telephone messages between incident resources (e.g., line orders, emergency traffic). They also document pertinent radio/phone traffic for the incident. The RADO reports to the Incident Communications Center Manager (INCM) or the Communications Unit Leader (COML) and works in the Logistics functional area.

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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.
  • Gather critical information pertinent to the assignment.
  • Travel to and check in at assignment.
  • Review the Incident Action Plan (IAP) and obtain briefing, objectives, and intent from supervisor.

Perform Radio Operator-Specific Duties

  • Manage communications for general operations.
  • Respond to incident emergencies.
  • Maintain inventory and track assigned equipment. 

Communicate and Coordinate

  • Ensure clear understanding of expectations and timely communication within and across Incident Command System (ICS) functional areas and chain of command.
  • Participate in After Action Reviews (AARs).

Manage Risk

  • Ensure compliance with all safety practices and procedures for yourself and those around you.

Document

  • Complete all administrative tasks and documentation in an accurate and timely manner.

Demobilize

  • Return equipment and supplies as appropriate.
  • Complete demobilization check-out process before being released from the incident. 
     

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2024 Paul Gleason Award Winners Announced

Date:  March 13, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Leadership Committee

The NWCG Leadership Committee is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Paul Gleason "Lead By Example" awards. Award categories include Initiative and Innovation, Mentoring and Teamwork, Motivation and Vision, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Congratulations to the awardees:

  • Justin Baxter, National Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations Specialist, with the U.S. Forest Service — Initiative and Innovation
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Date:  March 6, 2026
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NWCG Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) Position Page

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Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: NWCG Executive Secretary

NWCG is proud to celebrate 50 years of service to the wildland fire community. Beginning in 1976 with an interagency agreement between the Department of Interior and Department of Agriculture, NWCG has grown to include additional member agencies and is recognized as the standard-setting leader in wildland fire operations.

To honor where we’ve been and highlight where we are going, the NWCG team has created a video showcasing our history and accomplishments. The video is now available on the NWCG website.

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NEW! S-131, Firefighter Type 1 Course Available Now

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident Operations Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce the new S-131, Firefighter Type 1 course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this course is a performance-based instructor-led training (ILT) that focuses on the application of situational awareness and decision making, building on the knowledge and concepts introduced in previous required courses. Using a threaded fictitious fire, each unit focuses on a performance-based activity in which students practice applying their decision-making and problem-solving skills.

The S-131, Firefighter Type 1 course is required for individuals seeking qualifications to be a Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss) (FFT1) or an Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5).

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