Executive Consultant – Fire & Aviation Policy, Strategic Advisory

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in District of Columbia, +1 more state.

📋 Description

• Offer high-level strategic direction and policy expertise to the leadership of the USDA Forest Service.

• Facilitate regular strategy discussions with FAM leadership while providing real-time policy advice.

• Formulate actionable plans that align with the priorities and operational objectives of USDA/USFS leadership.

• Engage with stakeholder networks to gather and analyze a variety of perspectives on fire and aviation policies.

• Deliver balanced evaluations with clear implications for executive decision-making.

• Assess performance metrics, identify deficiencies, and design enhancements to processes.

• Create metrics to monitor progress towards strategic objectives.

• Draft detailed workflows and standard policy guides for USFS.

• Develop training and communication resources to ensure effective policy execution.

• Prepare executive talking points, policy briefs, and messaging for stakeholders.

• Coordinate communication strategies with senior team members and interagency collaborators.

• Conduct thorough data analyses and offer evidence-based recommendations.

• Produce materials to articulate, interpret, and defend complex or potentially contentious agency policies.

⛳️ Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree in business or a related discipline.

• At least ten (10) years of progressive experience or a minimum of twenty (20) years of experience specifically related to fire response.

• Background in senior USFS or DOI fire management; retired GS-14/15 or SES-level fire leadership is preferred.

• Expertise in the National Incident Management System (NIMS) with ICS-300/400 or higher qualifications.

• Experience in interagency fire coordination, including NIFC, Geographic Area Coordination Centers, or MAC Groups.

• Experience in policy development, including drafting directives, policy guides, or strategic plans for federal agencies.

• Experience as a congressional liaison, including briefing members, responding to inquiries, or supporting oversight hearings.

• Strong executive communication skills, including preparing talking points and briefs for senior leadership.

• Stakeholder engagement experience, working with state forestry agencies, tribes, and local governments.

• Proficiency in data analysis, translating operational data into strategic recommendations.

• Familiarity with current USFS priorities, including Secretary Rollins' wildfire memorandum and Chief Schultz's initiatives.

🏝️ Benefits

• Paid sick leave.

• Medical/Dental (optional).

• 401 (k) Retirement Plan (optional).

• Employer Paid Life Insurance.

• Employer Paid Short Term Disability.

• Optional Life Insurance.