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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]).
 

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 Latest Announcements

Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Books Now Available for PROC and TIME

Date: July 17, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Incident Business Committee

NWCG is excited to announce that Incident Position Standards and the Next Generation Position Task Books are now available for Procurement Unit Leader (PROC) and Time Unit Leader (TIME).

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 update, scheduled for January 2026.

References:

NWCG Procurement Unit Leader Position Page

NWCG Time Unit Leader Position Page

National Wildland Firefighter Day

Date: July 2, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
National Interagency Fire Center

The National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) recognizes July 2, 2025, as National Wildland Firefighter Day (NWFFD). Established in 2022, NWFFD honors the dedication of wildland firefighters and support personnel. This day falls within the 2025 Week of Remembrance (June 30 - July 6), providing an opportunity to renew our commitment to wildland firefighter safety while remembering those who have fallen in the line of duty.

NWCG provides leadership to enable interoperable wildland fire operations among federal, state, local, Tribal, and territorial partners. NWCG standards and training establish common practices to contribute to safe, effective, and coordinated interagency wildland fire operations nationwide.

References:

Week of Remembrance

National Wildland Firefighter Day

2025 Week of Remembrance

Date: June 27, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
6 Minutes for Safety Subcommittee

As we approach the 2025 Week of Remembrance (WOR), June 30–July 6, we dedicate this time to reflect on the past incidents from 2015 and honor the fallen through learning. Since its inception in 2014, WOR has honored wildland firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice while encouraging critical discussions that reinforce lessons learned.

Throughout the week, we encourage thoughtful and generative conversations—whether in briefing rooms or at tailgates—that promote a culture of continuous learning and safety.

References:

2025 Week of Remembrance: Letter to Leadership

Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center

ETC Equipment Bulletin: 25-003 Flame-Resistant Shirt Survey

Date: June 12, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Equipment Technology Committee

The U.S. Forest Service National Technology and Development Program (NTDP) is seeking input on the Forest Service-designed flame-resistant (FR) shirt, currently available through the National Interagency Support Cache system and FedMall.

NTDP is conducting a product review to improve future FR shirt designs. As part of this effort, a short survey is now open for federal employees who have worn any of three recent FR shirt models. Feedback will guide design improvements to better meet the needs of wildland firefighters.

To comply with the Paperwork Reduction Act, responses are limited to federal employees. The survey is open through September 12, 2025. 

References:

NWCG Alerts

ETC Equipment Bulletin: 25-003