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  • Extension Prescribed Fire Specialist Purdue

    Mar 2, 2026 1:00 pm by Beatriz HaverkosJobs

    Website + Application

    What You'll Be Doing:

    • Collaborating with Purdue Faculty and Staff, Sam Shine Foundation, INPFC, and other partners to identify and address training and outreach needs for prescribed fire
    • Coordinating and supporting the formation and persistence of PBAs across Indiana by utilizing existing information and applied research in coordination with Purdue Faculty and staff
    • Coordinating and leading prescribed fire trainings to support training and certification needs for PBAs and the Indiana Certified Prescribed Burn Manager program
    • Planning and conducting public engagement and outreach events related to prescribed fire - this may also include educational workshops, short courses and/or seminars
    • Assisting with creating resources (e.g., publications, videos, etc.) needed to support prescribed fire training and outreach efforts
    • Engaging with and contributing to the Indiana Prescribed Fire Council and other conservation partners in efforts related to expanding prescribed fire capacity and support in Indiana
    • Providing functional onsite leadership and be a crew member on prescribed fires for trainings and as needed

    What We're Looking For:

    • Master’s degree in Natural Resources, Forestry, Wildlife Management, or related field
    • 1 year of relevant experience
    • In lieu of degree, an equivalent combination of education and experience will also be considered (Bachelor's + 3 years of experience; Associates + 5 years; HS/GED + 7 years)
    • Have current certifications or ability to obtain certifications related to prescribed fire. Preference given to any of the following certifications:
        • NWCG – Firefighter Type 2 (FFT2)
        • NWCG – Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 1 or 2 (RxB1 or 2)
        • TNC – Prescribed Fire Crew Member (RxCM)
        • Indiana Certified Prescribed Burn Manager (CPBM)
        • CPBM from other states
    • Experience leading or being a crewmember on prescribed fires
    • Experience writing for and presenting to a public audience
    • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
    • Familiarity with logic model development and implementation
    • Knowledge of prescribed fire ecology, practices, and laws and regulations
    • Strong organizational and project management skills
    • Proficiency with computers, Microsoft Office Suite, and Zoom
    • Ability to work independently while accomplishing project goals and maintaining deadlines
    • Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and partners
    • Willingness to travel across Indiana for in-person trainings and meetings, including overnight stays
    • Willingness to work some evenings and weekends
    • Must be able to pass Arduous Work Capacity Test (“pack test”)
    • Ability to work outside in adverse conditions, lift or carry 25 to 50 lbs frequently or up to 60 lbs. occasionally

    Nice to Have:

    • Previous professional experience with forest and non-forest ecosystems in Indiana and the broader Midwest
    • Previous experience in an extension or outreach education role
    • Previous experience working with private landowners
    • Demonstrated experience in developing and delivering training programs

    What We'd Like You to Know:

    • Funding for this position is available for three years and yearly continuation is based on meeting agreement deliverables
    • Hybrid work arrangements preferred (with remote work arrangement negotiable)
    • The expectation includes attending important in person events and meetings as necessary, as well as engaging as a member of the Purdue Forestry and Natural Resources community
    • Duty station location is negotiable, with a desire for this position to be in southern Indiana.
    • Learn more about Purdue’s benefits summary, https://bit.ly/3sHGbls
    • Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
    • A Background Check is required for employment in this position
    • FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
    • Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contributions Waiting Period
    • Purdue University is an EOE/AA employer. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply