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Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Data Specialist

UASD Incident Position Description

The Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Data Specialist (UASD) manages, synthesizes, and disseminates intelligence collected by agency and contracted unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for wildland fire incidents. The UASD works in conjunction with an Unmanned Aircraft Systems Pilot (UASP) or for an Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Manager (UASM) to provide tactical and strategic information for incident command teams. The UASD works in the Air Operations functional area.

All UAS missions shall be conducted in accordance with the NWCG Standards for Fire Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations, PMS 515, and applicable federal/state policies (e.g., Federal Aviation Administration [FAA], Department of Interior [DOI], United States Forest Service [USFS]).
 

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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.
  • Obtain and assemble incident materials needed for assignment.
  • Travel to and check in at the assignment.
  • Obtain briefing from incident supervisor.

Build the Team

  • Establish a common operating picture. 

Perform Unmanned Aircraft System, Data Specialist-Specific Duties

  • Determine final data product(s), delivery location, and delivery time/method.
  • Coordinate travel to and from the fireline.
  • Locate the Launch and Recovery Zone (LRZ).
  • Establish work area.
  • Assist with UAS pre-mission-related activities.
  • Assist with UAS pre-flight preparation as needed.
  • Acquire, store, and manage data, and maintain metadata necessary to facilitate incident UAS operations.
  • Create intelligence deliverable(s).
  • Disseminate intelligence products, data, and imagery to incident personnel per established protocols or as necessary for the situation.

Communicate and Coordinate

  • Communicate effectively using multichannel radios.
  • Participate in After Action Reviews (AARs).
  • Establish communications and exchange necessary briefings/information with relevant team members.

Manage Risk

  • 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, and supervise and evaluate.
  • Ensure Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones (LCES) are in place.  
  • Use Look Up, Down, and Around in the NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG), PMS 461 to help maintain situational awareness and adjust actions accordingly.
  • Plan for medical emergencies.
  • Identify and appropriately act on hazardous situations.
  • Participate in and respond to mishaps as directed.

Document

  • Manage and provide intelligence deliverables for incident documentation history.
  • Complete all administrative tasks and documentation in an accurate and timely manner.

Demobilize

  • Plan for demobilization, brief assigned resources on demobilization procedures and responsibilities, and ensure incident and agency demobilization procedures and work/rest driving standards are followed.
  • Return equipment and supplies to the appropriate unit.
  • Complete demobilization checkout process before being released from the incident.
  • Upon demobilization, report status to home unit including reassignment or estimated time of arrival (ETA) to home unit.
  • Anticipate demobilization, identify excess resources, coordinate and prepare demobilization schedules, and communicate with the supervisor.
  • During transfer of command, ensure continuity of operations, exchange critical safety information, and communicate transfer of authority through established chain of command. 
     

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NWCG Committees Observe Suicide Prevention Awareness Week: September 7-13, 2025

Date: Sep 5, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
Mental Health Subcommittee

The NWCG Mental Health Subcommittee (MHSC) and Risk Management Committee (RMC) recognize the unique challenges and demands faced by the wildland fire community. The MHSC and RMC know that we are all stronger together and believe in fostering a culture of support, understanding, and resilience.

Suicide Prevention Awareness encourages us to actively connect with and support each other. For more information that could make a difference for yourself or someone else please review the materials and resources provided for the 2025 Suicide Prevention Awareness Week.

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2025 Suicide Prevention Awareness Week Materials and Resources

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References:

IPTM Story Map

Incident Performance and Training Modernization Webpage

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Date: Aug 15, 2025
Questions? Please contact:
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Students are required to finish the prerequisite S-190, Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior, before enrolling in S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended).

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S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (Blended)

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Date: Aug 14, 2025
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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. 

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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.

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