National Wildfire Coordinating Group

Strategic Operational Planner

SOPL decorative banner: photos depicting SOPL position. SOPL Position Description: The Strategic Operational Planner (SOPL) position is responsible for developing courses of action on long-term wildfire events. The courses of action for these wildfires may include both protection and resource benefit objectives. The SOPL may be ordered by and work for the host unit, the Geographic Area Coordination Center (GACC), or the IMT assigned to the fire.

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SOPL Qualification Requirements

Required Training

Required Experience

  • Satisfactory performance as a Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 2 (RXB2)
  • AND Satisfactory performance as a Division/Group Supervisor (DIVS)
  • AND Completion and Certification of NWCG Strategic Operational Planner (SOPL) Position Task Book, PMS 311-72

Physical Fitness Level: Moderate

Duties involve fieldwork requiring complete control of all physical faculties and may include considerable walking over irregular ground, standing for long periods of time, lifting 25 to 50 pounds, climbing, bending, stooping, squatting, twisting, and reaching. Occasional demands may be required for moderately strenuous activities in emergencies over long periods. Individuals usually set their own work pace.

These Positions Maintain Currency For SOPL

  • Division/Group Supervisor (DIVS)
  • Incident Commander Type 3 (ICT3)
  • Long Term Fire Analyst (LTAN)
  • Operations Section Chief Type 3, Wildland Fire (OPS3)
  • Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 1 (RXB1)
  • Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 2 (RXB2)

SOPL Maintains Currency For These Positions

  • Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 1 (RXB1)
  • Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 2 (RXB2)

Other Training Which Supports Development Of Knowledge And Skills

 

PRINT QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

 

Page Last Modified / Reviewed: 
2023-03-24

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