How to Be Fire/Forestry Supervisor - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 27, 2022 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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A Fire/Forestry Supervisor has a critical role in managing a safe and successful fire season. Their responsibilities include assessing fire risk and developing strategies to prevent or contain fires, as well as training and leading a team of firefighters. By properly managing the resources available, the supervisor can ensure that fires are prevented or contained quickly, minimizing damage and protecting lives and property.

the supervisor plays an important role in educating the public on how to prevent fires, as well as how to act in the event of a fire. All of these activities ultimately lead to an effective and safe fire season, protecting both people and the environment.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. To become a Fire/Forestry Supervisor, individuals must have a high school diploma or equivalent as the basic educational requirement.
Pursue an associate degree. Most employers prefer candidates who have at least an associate's degree in fire science, forestry, natural resource management, or a related field.
Gain experience in the field. Fire/Forestry Supervisors must have years of experience in the field in order to be considered for a supervisory role. It is recommended to start as a firefighter or forestry technician and gradually work your way up the ladder.
Obtain certifications. Most Fire/Forestry Supervisors must be certified in fire science, forestry, or a related field. These certifications demonstrate an individual's knowledge and skills in the area and are often required by employers.
Complete a supervisor training program. Most Fire/Forestry Supervisors complete a supervisor training program to gain the necessary skills for the role. The program typically covers topics such as safety protocols, crisis management, personnel management, budgeting, and project management.
Apply for the position. Once an individual has obtained the necessary qualifications and certifications, they can apply for the position of Fire/Forestry Supervisor. It is important to research the requirements of the position before applying.

Efficient and skilled fire and forestry supervisors are a key component of successful fire and forestry management. With the right training, supervisors are able to develop the necessary skills to effectively lead their teams, anticipate potential risks, create a safe and secure working environment, and provide direction. This in turn leads to improved communication between team members, better coordination of resources, and improved overall performance.

As a result, the risk of injury and property damage is reduced, while greater productivity and better results are achieved. this allows for more effective fire and forestry management, which helps protect people and the environment from the risks posed by wildfires, storms, and other natural disasters.

You may want to check Fire/Forestry Planner, Forestry Program Analyst, and Forestry Extension Agent for alternative.

Job Description

Develop and implement fire prevention and suppression plans for the agency or organization.
Supervise personnel in the implementation of these plans, including the training and certification of staff in the use of specialized equipment.
Prepare and submit budget proposals, work plans, and other documents and reports as required.
Monitor and evaluate fire behavior and weather conditions to determine the need for additional personnel, equipment, or other resources.
Work cooperatively with other agencies to coordinate fire prevention, suppression, and rehabilitation activities.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with local governments, private landowners, and other agencies involved in fire-related activities.
Develop and administer safety programs for personnel in the field.
Plan and lead firefighting operations as needed.
Monitor compliance with regulations regarding activities that can cause wildfires.
Investigate fires to determine their cause, origin, and extent of damage.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of fire management and fire suppression systems
Knowledge of forestry principles and practices
Knowledge of local, state and federal regulations related to fire management
Ability to handle emergency situations and respond quickly and efficiently
Ability to effectively communicate with other supervisors, personnel and the public
Ability to interpret maps, weather reports, and other documents related to fire management
Ability to conduct fire risk assessments, develop fire plans and prepare reports
Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
Knowledge of computer applications related to fire management
Ability to effectively manage resources and personnel in the field

Being a Fire/Forestry Supervisor requires a wide range of skills and competencies. One of the most important skills to have is the ability to lead and manage a team. Fire/Forestry Supervisors need to be able to effectively delegate tasks and provide guidance to their subordinates.

Furthermore, they must be able to make quick and effective decisions, while also being able to effectively communicate with other departments and personnel. they must be able to analyze data, assess risks, and develop strategies to mitigate those risks. Lastly, Fire/Forestry Supervisors must be able to react quickly and calmly in emergency situations, as well as maintain good relationships with the public and other agencies.

Having these skills will help Fire/Forestry Supervisors be successful in their roles and help ensure that the fire and forestry resources are managed safely and responsibly.

Fire/Forestry Biologist, Forestry Planner, and Fire/Forestry Manager are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in fire/forestry supervision?
What approach do you take when leading a team?
How do you prioritize tasks and manage competing priorities?
How do you handle difficult conversations with staff?
What strategies have you employed to ensure safety protocols are being adhered to?
What methods have you used to effectively motivate your team?
How do you manage a budget for forestry/fire activities?
What strategies do you use to ensure that operational procedures are followed?
What experience do you have in developing training materials for fire/forestry teams?
How do you stay current on industry regulations and best practices?

Common Tools in Industry

Fire Management Software. A software used to help with fire management, including mapping, reporting, and predictions. (eg: Firecast)
GPS Technology. A technology used to track location and navigation for firefighters in the field. (eg: Garmin GPS)
Fire Weather Forecasting. A tool used to predict weather conditions that could influence fire behavior. (eg: National Fire Danger Rating System)
Radio Communication. A tool used to communicate with other personnel, both on-site and remote. (eg: Motorola Radio System)
Fire Perimeter Mapping Tools. A tool used to map and measure the size of a wildfire. (eg: ArcGIS)
Aerial Observation Systems. A tool used to observe and map fires from an aircraft or drone. (eg: FLIR Systems)
Fire Behavior Modeling Software. A software used to simulate and predict the behavior of a fire. (eg: FARSITE)
Fire Suppression Tools. A variety of tools used to control and extinguish fires, such as water pumps, foam, and fire retardant. (eg: Wildland Fire Suppression System)

Professional Organizations to Know

International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC)
National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC)
International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI)
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
United States Fire Administration (USFA)
National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG)
National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC)
National Association of State Foresters (NASF)
International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF)
Society of American Foresters (SAF)

We also have Fire/Forestry Meteorologist, Forestry Biologist, and Forestry Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Wildland Fire Management. The practice of managing wildland fires to reduce the risk of harm to people, property, and natural resources.
Fire Prevention. The practice of reducing the risk of a wildland fire occurring through the use of education, enforcement, and other management techniques.
Fire Suppression. The practice of controlling or extinguishing a wildland fire to reduce the risk of harm to people, property, and natural resources.
Fire Investigation. The practice of determining the cause and origin of a wildland fire.
Fire History. The study of past wildland fire events, including the causes, behavior, and effects.
Fire Ecology. The study of the interactions between fire and the environment, including the effects of fire on ecosystems, and the benefits of prescribed burning.
Fire Research. The study of wildland fire behavior and other aspects of wildland fire science.
Fire Safety. The practice of protecting people and property from wildland fires by using safety measures such as fire shelter and other protective equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications are required for a Fire/Forestry Supervisor?

Fire/Forestry Supervisors must possess a high school diploma or GED, a valid drivers license, and preferably a valid fire safety certification. They must also have at least five years of experience in the field of fire and forestry management.

What is the job description of a Fire/Forestry Supervisor?

Fire/Forestry Supervisors are responsible for overseeing wildfire suppression and prevention activities, coordinating the implementation of fire protection plans, and ensuring that all firefighting and forestry operations comply with local, state, and federal regulations. They may also be responsible for conducting fire safety inspections, educating local communities about fire safety, and responding to emergency fire situations.

What are the duties of a Fire/Forestry Supervisor?

Fire/Forestry Supervisors are responsible for creating and implementing fire protection plans, coordinating wildfire suppression and prevention activities, conducting fire safety inspections, educating local communities about fire safety, responding to emergency fire situations, and working with other stakeholders to protect forests and other areas from fire danger.

How much does a Fire/Forestry Supervisor typically earn?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Fire/Forestry Supervisors is $63,950. Pay can vary greatly depending on location, experience level, certification, and other factors.

What type of work environment does a Fire/Forestry Supervisor typically work in?

Fire/Forestry Supervisors typically work in outdoor environments such as forests and wildlands. Depending on the situation, they may also be required to work in extreme weather conditions and in hazardous areas.