INTERAGENCY FIRE PROGRAM MANAGEMENT 

QUALIFICATIONS STANDARDS AND GUIDE 

COMPETENCY RECORD FOR 

WILDLAND FIRE OPERATIONS SPECIALIST 

LOW, MODERATE, HIGH COMPLEXITY 

COMPETENCY RECORD ASSIGNED TO: 

(Individual’s Name, Duty Station and Phone Number) 

COMPETENCY RECORD INITIATED BY: 

(Official’s Name, Title, Duty Station and Phone Number) 

Location and Date Competency Record was Initiated 

This competency record contains both common and position-specific competencies for the 

identified position. Employees will have three (3) years from the date Minimum 

Qualification Standards are met to meet these competencies. 
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EVALUATOR RECORD 

# Name Title Office/Unit Phone 

1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

CERTIFICATION RECORD 

Do not complete this section until the employee has met all the competencies for their position.

I certify that ____________________________________ has met all the competencies for 

this position. 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

Certifying Official’s Signature and Date 

(Unit Fire Program Manager or Agency Administrator) 

______________________________________________________________________________ 

Certifying Official’s Name, Title, Office/Unit, and Phone Number 

INCIDENT QUALIFICATIONS AND CERTIFICATION SYSTEM (IQCS) 

This competency record was entered into IQCS on: __________ by ____________________ 
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INTERAGENCY FIRE PROGRAM MANAGEMENT QUALIFICATIONS STANDARDS AND GUIDE

COMPETENCY RECORD

All employees working in one of the 14 Key Fire Program Management Positions identified in 

the Interagency Fire Program Management Qualifications Standards and Guide (IFPM Standard)

must meet the common and position-specific competencies for their position. 

Employees can obtain the common competencies through personal education and experiences, 

through agency orientation and mission renewal programs, and through interaction with peers, 

teams, and supervisors. Position-specific competencies can be obtained through a variety of 

mechanisms including but not limited to; training, on-the-job experience, details, special 

assignments, and mentoring. 

The common competencies are intended to supplement the position-specific competencies. 

This task book contains both common and position-specific competencies for the identified 

position. 

Employees will have three (3) years from the date Minimum Qualification Standards are 

met to meet these competencies. Use of this competency tracking tool is not required but 

use will provide documentation for the employee and supervisor in tracking competency 

attainment. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Supervisor is responsible for: 

• Understanding the Interagency Fire Program Management Qualifications Standards and 

Guide. 

• Initiating the position competency taskbook. 

• Explaining to the employee the purpose and process of the competency taskbook as well as 

the employee’s responsibilities. 

• Incorporating competencies into the employees Individual Development Plan (IDP). 

• Tracking progress of the employee. 

• Confirming competency taskbook completion. 

• Entry of position competency attainment in Incident Qualifications and Certification System 

(IQCS). 

• Distribution of IFPM completion report to human resources and employee. 

 

The Employee is responsible for: 

• Reviewing and understanding the instructions in the competency taskbook. 

• Identifying current and future career goals with their supervisor. 

• Completion of all competencies for their position within three years. 

The Evaluator is responsible for: 

• Understanding of the Interagency Fire Program Management Qualifications Standards and 

Guide. 

• Ensuring they are fully proficient in the competencies they are evaluating.
COMPETENCIES 

Competencies constitute the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities which, when acquired, allow a person to perfat a defined level of proficiency. EXPERTISE LEVELS DEFINITIONSCompetencies are described in terms of three “Expertise Levels” (working, journey, and expert). The appropriate 

that particular competency is indicated under the relevant level of program complexity. If there is no associated co

particular position, the expert level is recommended for each of the competencies. "Program Complexity Levels" refers to those determined from the complexity analysis process. Some positions dexpertise levels of competencies, regardless of the complexity of the program to which they are assigned. Others h

level of competency expertise defined, recognizing that there is too wide a variety of programs within and between 

situations. The remainder, have either two or three levels of competency expertise, based on their unit's program c

WORKING – W: The minimum level of experience and/or training that it takes to produce work of acceptable qual

JOURNEY – J: Has sufficient experience to be considered a seasoned employee. Is skilled in performing the more 

to the function. Has received advanced training in the function. EXPERT – E: Reflects the quality of experience and/or training needed to perform the most challenging aspects of 

Example of Expertise and Complexity Levels 

Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Knowledge of processes and sources of training. W J J 

In this example, a “W” Working level of expertise is required in a Low complexity fire program; a “J” Journey lev

required in both Moderate and High complexity fire programs. 

The “Competency Descriptors” may be used in a variety of ways: 

• Constructing employee Individual Development Plans (IDPs) • Evaluating employee performance, supplementing the “Standard Key Performance Elements” 

More information on competencies can be found in the IFPM Standard or on-line at: http://ifpm.nifc.gov
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POSITION-SPECIFIC COMPETENCY DESCRIPTORS FOR WILDLAND FIRE OPERATIONS SPECIALISWildland Fire Operations Specialist Position Descriptor A Wildland Fire Operations Specialist is one who applies fire management principles and practices for the protec

enhancement of the wildland environment through the implementation of operational plans. I. Program Management Description

This competency identifies the knowledge, skills and abilities required to develop and manage a wildland fire ma

Outline

A. Develop, implement and evaluate program goals and objectives in support of mission accomplishm

corrective actions. 

Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Knowledge of natural resource management concepts, principles, and practices applicable to the full range of duties associated with fire management. 

W J J 

Knowledge of the integration of related fields such as forestry, range, recreation, wildlife, soil, air and water. 

W J J 
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Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Knowledge of the ecological response to the presence or absence of fire. 

W J J 

Knowledge of fire protection and fire use techniques, methods and procedures. 

J J E 

Knowledge of program monitoring and evaluation process and procedures. 

J J J 

Knowledge of reporting requirements and procedures. 

J J J 

Ability to monitor and evaluate program elements and determine their effectiveness in meeting management goals and objectives. 

W J J 

Ability to apply corrective actions to increase efficiencies and effectiveness. 

W J J 

Ability to identify and define fire-related management issues, resolve the issues with available research, and make recommendations. 

W J J 
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B. Develop, implement and evaluate fire management budgets. 

Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Skill in developing, implementing, and monitoring a wildland fire operations budget.

W J J 

C. Supervise and develop employees. 

Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Knowledge of processes and sources of training. W J J Knowledge of agency and interagency qualification and certification standards. 

J J J 

Ability to implement development/training plans. 

W J J 
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D. Develop and maintain agency and interagency partnerships. 

Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Knowledge of cooperating agencies' missions, organization and operating procedures.

W J J 

Knowledge of organization and function of interagency fire organizations, such as the National Wildfire Coordinating Group, National Multi-agency Coordinating Group, geographic area coordinating groups, state, tribal, and local groups.

W J J 

Knowledge of development of Cooperative Agreements, Memoranda of Understanding, and Memoranda of Agreement.

W J J 
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E. Identify research needs and apply new technologies. 

Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Ability to identify and define fire management 

issues, and develop research recommendations if necessary.

W J J 

Ability to apply technology in fire management activities.

W J J 

II. Planning DescriptionThis element identifies the knowledge, skills and abilities required for participation in the planning processes inv

management programs. These levels must be sufficient to allow for participation on interdisciplinary teams in th

• Unit Level Fire Management Plan- these plans could include pre-attack plans and other suppression-relat• Annual Operating Plan- these plans could include Memoranda of Understanding and Cooperative Agreem

plans, step-up staffing plans, etc. 
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OutlineA. Develop plans compliant with environmental laws, regulations and policies. 

Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Knowledge of environmental laws, regulations, and policies including the National Environmental Policy Act.

W J J 

B. Participate in agency interdisciplinary planning processes. 

Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Ability to participate in interdisciplinary planning. W J J 

C. Prepare and review plans and/or plan components, which may include the following: 

1. Annual Operating Plans 2. Training plans 3. Fire suppression plans 4. Safety plans 5. Individual project plans 
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Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Knowledge of components of required plans under area of responsibility.

J J E 

Ability to write operational plans. 

III. OperationsDescriptionThis element identifies the knowledge, skills and abilities required to manage operational program components to 

management objectives established for the unit. Operational components include preparedness, wildland fire opefuels and prescribed fire, and aviation. Outline

A. Implement unit preparedness programs to include: 

1. Detection 2. Readiness 3. Agreements 4. Fire danger/behavior predictions 5. Severity requests 6. Dispatching 
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Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Knowledge of aerial and land-based detection systems and technologies sufficient to implement a unit level detection program.

W J E 

Knowledge of agency and interagency mobilization policies, procedures, and guidelines. 

W J E 

Knowledge of the cache management system sufficient to manage a unit fire cache. 

W J E 

Knowledge of fire business management principles and practices. 

J J J 

Knowledge of WIMS, NFDRS, etc., sufficient to develop, implement and adjust preparedness, staffing and dispatch plans. 

W J E 

Knowledge of the severity request requirements process. 

W J J 

Skill in applying current fire weather, fire behavior and fire danger prediction systems. 

J J E 
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Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Ability to conduct readiness and safety inspections to assess a unit’s ability to conduct wildland fire management activities. 

J J E 

Ability to analyze fire occurrence. 

W J E 

Ability to analyze critical factors and initiate timely severity requests. 

W J E 

Ability to implement and evaluate dispatch plans (e.g., pre-attack, preplanned dispatch, mobilization guides, etc.). 

J J E 

B. Manage wildland fire program components to include but not limited to: 

1. Strategy and tactics 2. Incident management 3. Emergency rehabilitation 4. Logistics/support 5. Priority setting and coordination 6. Reporting 
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Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Knowledge of the Incident Command System component of National Interagency Incident Management System.

W J E 

Knowledge of wildland and urban interface fire suppression strategies and tactics. 

W J E 

Knowledge of the full range of wildland fire appropriate management responses sufficient to implement an effective program. 

W J E 

Knowledge of fire suppression/prescribed fire tools and equipment. 

J J E 

Knowledge of fire behavior, strategy and tactics, resources, equipment, and tools sufficient to safely, efficiently, and effectively direct the management of wildland fires. 

J J E 

Knowledge of agency/bureau emergency rehabilitation policies, procedures, and techniques. 

W J E 
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Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Ability to recognize changing conditions, develop alternative strategies and take appropriate action. 

J J E 

Ability to coordinate with cooperators in providing fire suppression. 

W J J 

Ability to ensure that all reports and records are properly completed. 

J J J 

Ability to set priorities and allocate resources between multiple incidents. 

W J E 

Ability to support the selected management response of one or more incidents. 

W J E 

C. Manage prevention programs. 

Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Knowledge of fire prevention processes, practices and techniques.

W J J 

Ability to conduct hazard risk analysis, and apply appropriate prevention techniques. 

W J J 
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D. Manage fuels and prescribed fire programs. 

Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Knowledge of fuels management principles, practices, and techniques. 

W J J 

Knowledge of prescribed fire organization, principles, practices, and techniques. 

W J J 

E. Manage unit fire aviation programs or operations as appropriate, including, but not limited to: 

1. Tactical application of aircraft 2. Aviation safety management 3. Administration 

Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Knowledge of capabilities, limitations and approved safety standards and operating procedures of commonly used fixed and rotary-wing aircraft.

W J E 
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Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Knowledge of aviation administration requirements and procedures, such as contract solicitation, awarding and administration, fiscal accounting, etc. 

W J J 

Ability to ensure management of aircraft utilized in unit's fire operations is conducted in a safe and efficient manner, following established standards. 

J E E 

Ability to obtain compliance with established personnel safety requirements, such as training, personal protective equipment, determination of payloads, manifesting, flight following, crash/rescue response, etc. 

J J J 
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IV. Safety and WelfareDescriptionThis element describes the knowledge, skills and abilities required to manage the environmental and workplace h

wildland fire environment. It focuses on the Wildland Fire Operations Specialist's ability to provide leadership a

subordinates in the recognition and mitigation of these hazards using all applicable laws, policies and guidelines. 

accountability and zero tolerance for unsafe acts are paramount. Outline

A. Use applicable laws, policies, and guidelines to provide safety leadership and direction. 

1. Occupational Safety and Health Act 2. Applicable state safety regulations 3. Department and agency policies and guidelines 4. NWCG guidelines 

Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Knowledge of the laws, policies and guidelines pertaining to safety such as the Code of Federal Regulations, national and agency policies and guidelines, Standard Firefighting Orders, Watch Out Situations, and other related fire safety guidelines, including OSHA and NWCG guidelines.

J J E 
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B. Conduct safety related education programs focusing on:

1. Training 2. Certification 

Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Skill in the effective use of education and certification processes to achieve safety management objectives and ensure compliance.

W J E 

C. Prepare hazard, risk, and trend analyses for: 

1. Hazards including, but not limited to: 

a. Fuels b. Weather c. Topography 

2. Associated hazards including, but not limited to: 

a. Aviation b. Mechanized equipment c. Hazardous materials 

Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Skill in conducting hazard, risk, and trend analyses. W J J 
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D. Follow up hazards and risks with appropriate mitigation actions. 

Program 

Complexity Working Level Journey Level E

Competencies L M H Evaluator How Obtained Evaluator How Obtained Evalua

Skill in recognizing and mitigating of a variety of hazards encountered within the wildland fire environment and other work environments; e.g., aviation, mechanized equipment, and hazardous materials.

W J J 
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COMMON COMPETENCY DESCRIPTORS FOR WILDLAND FIRE OPERATIONS SPECIALISTI. Mission Comprehension DescriptionThis competency requires background and understanding of the agency enabling legislation and its ramifications

responsibilities that have historically evolved. Outline

A. Describe the agency’s historical background and mission evolution. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of the agency’s historical background and mission evolution. 

W 

Knowledge of enabling legislation and other acts affecting agency’s mission. 

W 

Ability to describe the historical background of the agency. 

W 

Ability to explain the purpose of the agency. W 

B. Identify relevant agency mandates. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of existing mandates and resolutions. W 
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C. Define the purpose of limits within the agency. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of social, political and fiscal limits within the agency. 

W 

II. Agency Orientation DescriptionThis competency requires a comprehension of the structure and organization of the agency’s organizational level

of the structure and organization of the Departments of Agriculture or Interior and its place in the federal governdevelopment of an insight into an individual employee’s role in the agency in particular, and in the federal goverOutline

A. Describe the structure and organization of the Department of Agriculture or Interior. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of the basics of government structure and function. 

W 

Knowledge of the structure and function of the Department of the Interior or the Department of Agriculture. 

W 

Knowledge of applicable Code of Federal Regulations. W Ability to describe the relationship of the agency to the Department of the Interior or the Department of Agriculture. 

W 
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B. Describe the structure and the organization of the agency. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of how goals and strategies provide structured guidance towards accomplishing an agency’s mission. 

N/A 

Knowledge of agency organizational structures. W Ability to define how the agency relates on an interagency basis. 

W 

III. Resource Stewardship DescriptionThis competency requires an understanding of the natural, cultural, and historical resources protected; the range i

managing these resources in the context of fire management; the individual’s role in resource stewardship; and thpartners outside the agency to promote resource stewardship. 
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OutlineA. Describe federal stewardship of natural resources. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of federal legislation regarding resource management such as National Environmental Policy Act, Clean Air Act, Wilderness Act, Threatened and Endangered Species Act and the Natural Historical Preservation Act. 

J 

Knowledge of environmental, technical, social consequences of proposed decisions and actions. 

J 

Knowledge of public perceptions of the risks and the benefits of resource alternative strategies. 

W 

Knowledge of the role of scientific knowledge and advanced technologies. 

W 

Ability to learn current natural resources policy initiatives. 

W 
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B. Identify resources protected by the agency and describe the responsibilities in managing these resou

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of natural, cultural, and historical resources managed by the agency. 

J 

Knowledge of ecosystem management and the ecological response to the presence or absence of fire. 

J 

Knowledge of the agency planning process and how it contributes to resource stewardship. 

J 

Ability to articulate the agency stewardship function. W 

C. Define the sustainable practices philosophy. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of agency multiple use acts. W Knowledge of related fields such as forestry, range, wildlife, botany, soils and water (hereafter referred to as resources). 

J 

Knowledge of how different resources contribute to sustainable practices. 

W 

Ability to describe how different resources interact. W Ability to define sustainability in the context of overall resource management. 

W 
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D. Define the employee’s role in resource stewardship. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of agency’s workforce resource priorities. W Ability to explain the individual’s role in supporting the agency’s stewardship function. 

J 

Ability to implement agency priorities within an individual’s work assignments. 

J 

E. Recognize the positive purposes of interagency partnerships. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of fire management partnership benefits. 

J 

Knowledge of cooperating agency’s missions, organizations, and operating procedures. 

J 

Knowledge of why the agency needs and interacts with partners to fulfill its resource stewardship role. 

J 

Ability to participate in interagency workshops and other project processes. 

J 
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Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Ability to recognize the value of interagency fire management cooperation to meet fire management program goals. 

J 

IV. Fundamental ValuesDescriptionThis competency focuses on the employee’s ability to exhibit positive attitudes and behaviors to accomplish an a

contribute to the overall health of the organization. These attitudes and behaviors include teamwork; ethical beha

and the organization; support of cultural diversity, accessibility, and fairness issues in the workplace; and an attitbehavior for one’s self and for others. The safety competency identifies an understanding of the environmental and workplace hazards of the wildland f

focuses on the employee’s ability to provide leadership and direction in recognition and the mitigation of these h

applicable laws, policies and guidelines. Utilizing this approach, a passion for safety will be instilled with zero toacts. All employees will be personally accountable for safety. Outline

A. Supervise and develop employees. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of personnel hiring, pay, discipline, and termination procedures. 

J 

Knowledge of methods and techniques of personal motivation, organization, supervision, and evaluation in order to emphasize accountability. 

J 
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Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of the processes and sources of training. J Skill in practicing the commonly accepted individual values of performance, commitment, interdependence, authority, responsibility, accountability, choice, risk management, and excellence. 

J 

Skill in applying the accepted principles of delegation. J Skill in carrying out proper fiscal and accountable actions. 

J 

Ability to apply sound personnel management skills to include supervision, coaching, training, motivation, and evaluation. 

J 

Ability to conduct oneself in an ethical manner. J Ability to transmit high performance expectations and to follow up on personnel accomplishments. 

J 

Ability to impart selfconfidence and empowerment. 

J 

Ability to initiate recommendations for change. J Ability to assess personal attitudes towards others and one’s employer. 

J 
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Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Ability to develop new insights into situations in order to improve the situation, increase efficiencies, or to mitigate safety problems. 

J 

Ability to create effective standards and operating procedures for personnel safety. 

J 

B. Implement safe workplace practices. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of agency laws, policies, and guidelines such as NWCG’s Standard Firefighting Orders and Watch Out Situations. 

J 

Knowledge of wildland fire hazards. E Knowledge of wildland fire safety practices and procedures. 

E 

Knowledge of standard first aid procedures. J Knowledge of hazard and risk analysis requirements for such areas as human factors, fuels, weather, topography, aviation, mechanized equipment, and hazardous materials. 

J 

Skill in using educational and certification processes to impart a passion for safety. 

J 
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Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Skill in using safety related education programs with the focus on training and performance certification. 

J 

Skill in applying basic first aid procedures. J Ability to recognize and correct unsafe practices and conditions. 

W 

C. Identify workplace accessibility issues. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of Americans with Disabilities Act requirements. 

W 

Ability to make reasonable accommodation for disabled persons. 

W 

D. Describe the guiding principles of time management. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge as to how time management affects one’s personal well being and stress level. 

W 

Knowledge of the impact of internal and external influences on available time and time choices. 

W 

Ability to understand how individual factors of values, priorities, and goals affect time choices. 

W 
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Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Ability to define the difference between internal and external prime time. 

W 

Ability to develop an effective time management strategy. 

J 

Ability to monitor time spent and make adjustments as needed. 

J 

E. Describe the agency’s management culture. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of the agency’s values and philosophy. W Knowledge of external influences on the agency’s mission, budget, and operational procedures. 

W 

Ability to define those elements of the management culture that have an effect on meeting one’s job performance requirements. 

J 
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F. Implement cultural diversity, equal opportunity and civil rights policies. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of appropriate act requirements to include the Equal Opportunity Act, Civil Rights Act, Age Discrimination in Employment Act, Rehabilitation Act, 29 CFR 1604.11(a) Sexual Harassment. 

W 

Skill in carrying out supervisory and leadership responsibilities relevant to the workplace acts. 

J 

V. Leadership DescriptionThis competency requires a comprehension of the basics of leadership. OutlineA. Demonstrate appropriate leadership skills to meet agency goals and safe operating procedures. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of acceptable leadership characteristics. J Knowledge of delegation as a leadership and team building tool. 

J 
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Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of management styles most appropriate to deal with internal and external controls. 

J 

Knowledge of the steps of effective conflict resolution. J Ability to function as an effective team member. J Ability to recognize changing conditions, develop alternative strategies, and take appropriate action. 

J 

Ability to be decisive in leadership roles. J Ability to define one’s leadership style. W Ability to adjust one’s leadership style to meet the agency mission. 

J 

Ability to describe how the development levels of followers affect one’s leadership style. 

W 

Ability to understand and apply the basic styles of conflict resolution such as avoiding, accommodating, compromising, competing, and collaborating. 

J 
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VI. Problem Solving SkillsDescriptionThis competency deals with the ability to analyze, build consensus, make decisions, and practice innovation in va

job. Outline

A. Analyze a situation, determine alternative solutions, and recommend a course of action. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of assessment skills. J Knowledge of how a situation deviates from the norm or a standard. 

J 

Knowledge of factors contributing to a problem. J Skill in collecting, grouping contributing factors. J Skill in distinguishing between relevant and irrelevant information and making logical judgments. 

J 

Ability to narrow the problem area. 

J 

Ability to use sound reasoning to arrive at a conclusion. 

J 

B. Make sound and well-informed decisions. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of organizational goals and objectives. J 
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Knowledge of organizational policies and guidelines. J Skill in identifying the impact and implications of decisions. J Ability to quantify costs of decisions. J Ability to describe the rationale for a decision. J 

C. Identify and mitigate stressful influences. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of stress indicators. E Skill in recognizing the impacts of stress on the functions of supervision and leadership. 

W 

Skill in mitigating stressful situations. J Ability to minimize negative personal impacts. J 

D. Utilize facilitation skills to resolve problems and promote consensus. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of group processes. 

W 

Knowledge of the five basic styles of conflict resolution. W Skill in building group consensus to meet objectives through give and take. 

J 

Ability to foster commitment. J Ability to negotiate to find mutually acceptable solutions. J 
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Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Ability to encourage and receive cooperation. J Ability to gain cooperation from others to obtain information and accomplish goals. 

J 

VII. Communication Skills DescriptionThis competency relates to the ability to communicate effectively with the public and employees in writing and s

effective team member; to use interpersonal skills to become an effective employee; and to exhibit basic comput

Outline

A. Communicate effectively. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of effective listening, speaking, and writing skills. 

J 

Knowledge of the characteristics of effective written communications. 

W 

Knowledge of communication methods used by the supervisor. 

J 

Knowledge of how a team communicates to accomplish a common goal. 

J 

Knowledge of basic computer keyboard requirements. J 
37

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of computer data entry and retrieval. J Skill in writing basic letters and reports and filling out basic forms for routine agency operations. 

J 

Ability to identify the types of non-verbal communication methods. 

W 

Ability to express facts and ideas in writing in a succinct and organized manner. 

J 

Ability to define the speaker, listener, and observer tasks in communications. 

J 

Ability to facilitate an open exchange of information. J Ability to identify the conditions necessary for accurate and effective communications. 

J 

Ability to consider and respond appropriately to the needs, feelings, and capabilities of others, and adjust communication approaches to suit different people and situations. 

J 

Ability to perform computer technological skills such as word processing, electronic mail, and Internet processes. 

J 
38

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Ability to explain agency programs and procedures in understandable terms to individuals and groups. 

J 

VIII. Personal Development and Planning DescriptionThis competency considers an individual being able to work with subordinates or a supervisor. It considers an ag

charting a course of action for developing an individual. Outline

A. Meet agency physical and mental fitness requirements. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of National Wildfire Coordinating Group and agency requirements. 

J 

Ability to utilize a physical training program to enhance physical and mental fitness. 

J 

Ability to perform duties under stressful and adverse operating conditions, such as long work hours, heavy workloads, emergency situations, adverse working and environmental conditions. 

J 

Ability to recognize fitness potential in subordinates and provide opportunities to achieve this potential. 

J 
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B. Set individual career goals and implement self-directed course of action. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of career development strategies. J Knowledge of self-direction capabilities. J Knowledge of agency and interagency opportunities and requirements for potential advancement. 

J 

Skill in demonstrating a belief in one’s own abilities and ideas. 

J 

Ability to use a performance appraisal to assess one’s performance strengths and weaknesses to lead toward improvement. 

J 

Ability to set personal goals for career development and implement actions to obtain them. 

J 

Ability to develop selfmotivation. J Ability to seek feedback from others and opportunities for self-learning and development. 

J 

Ability to perform a personal role assessment, which would lead to monitoring behavior patterns associated with the functions performed. 

J 
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IX. Agency Operations DescriptionThis competency requires a comprehension of the basic operations of an agency, especially at the local level; and 

operations interact to fulfill the missions, planning and budgetary processes and agency purpose. Outline

A. Apply basic principles of appropriation law. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of appropriation law relevant to supervisory and leadership roles. 

W 

Knowledge of the aspects of appropriation law pertinent to the expenditure of funds and relative to the agency mission. 

W 

Knowledge of agency fiscal regulations. J Ability to describe the budget authority relevant to supervisory and leadership roles. 

W 

Ability to describe the purpose of an obligation. W 

B. Implement and evaluate financial activities. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of agency financial regulations, policies and guidelines. 

J 
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Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of interagency fire business management practices and procedures. 

J 

Knowledge of required fiscal documentation. J Ability to apply appropriate fiscal procedures. J 

C. Apply appropriate technology. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of existing fire information databases and software applications. 

W 

Knowledge of current technology and the impact of technological changes on the organization. 

J 

Ability to apply technologies on the job. E Ability to identify various sources available that enable supervisors to keep current on technological advances. 

J 

Ability to describe one’s role in information and technological exchange. 

J 
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D. Develop and maintain agency and interagency operations. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of the various aspects of local unit interactions and how they work together to accomplish the agency and local unit missions. 

J 

Knowledge of the external agency operations. J Knowledge of the customer consultation process. J Knowledge of agency Cooperative Agreements, Memorandums of Understanding. 

J 

Knowledge of the organization and the function of cooperative interagency fire organizations such as NWCG, NICC, GACC, state, tribal, and local organizations. 

W 

Ability to provide input into cooperative agreements, MOUs, and MOAs. 

W 

Ability to participate at the appropriate level in interagency workshop operations and seminars. 

J 
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E. Initiate and participate in agency and interagency interdisciplinary planning processes. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of what constitutes a correctly written objective. 

J 

Knowledge of how goals and strategies provide structured guidance in accomplishing an agency’s mission. 

J 

Knowledge of agency’s priorities. J Knowledge of how an agency’s planning system causes a timely reconsideration of priorities. 

J 

Skill in providing input into objective writing. J Skill in restructuring priorities to meet goals or objectives. J Ability to review portions of plans and provide input. J 

F. Utilize agency qualifications and certification procedures. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of agency and interagency qualification and certification standards and procedures adopted by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG). 

J 

Knowledge of position task book requirements. J 
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Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Ability to maintain position qualification. J 

X. Program/Project Progress Monitoring and EvaluationDescriptionThese competencies are related in terms of adjusting program operations in a timely manner. Progress is directed 

quantifiable objectives. Monitoring that part of the operation identifies whether the objectives are valid, understoemployee is capable of performing the tasks. Outline

A. Implement measurement systems that accurately track results. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of agency performance requirements. J Knowledge of basic wildland fire program requirements. J Knowledge of fire operations/prescribed fire tools and equipment. 

E 

Knowledge of reporting requirements and procedures. J Ability to implement the common monitoring techniques of feedback and personal observation used in evaluating a project’s progress. 

J 
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B. Evaluate results against program objectives. 

Competencies Expertise Level Evaluator How Obtained 

Knowledge of evaluative processes and procedures. J Ability to analyze organizational performance relative to given objectives. 

J 

Ability to recognize how objectives establishing the direction efforts are to be focused and the criteria for measuring success. 

J