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Mission Sensor Operator, Photogrammetrist 2

State of Washington

State of Washington

Tumwater, WA, USA
USD 5,241-7,043 / month
Posted on Oct 22, 2025

Description


Mission Sensor Operator, Photogrammetrist 2
Recruitment #2025-10-A380
Full-time, Career Seasonal, Represented position (WPEA)
Location: Tumwater, WA
Anticipated Seasonal employment is February - October 2026

Salary: $5,241.00 - $7,043.00 Monthly


Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 10/28/25. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.

Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity. Are you looking for a fast-paced, exciting, and rewarding career in Wildfire? The Wildland Fire Management Division - Aviation Section has an opening for a Mission Sensor Operator in our Kodiak 100 Multi-Mission Aircraft. DNR Aviation utilizes 2 Kodiak 100 aircraft to aid in fire suppression intel across the state of Washington. You will be responsible for operation of, and intel gathering using the multi-spectral camera system and downlink. The mission profile of our airplanes includes fire reconnaissance, detection, intel gathering, perimeter estimation, photography and crew/equipment Insertion/Transport.

This position requires a motivated individual that works effectively in a team environment but also possesses the ability to operate and make split-second decisions independently. You will be required to communicate effectively with aircrew, ground resources, and other aerial resources in order to accomplish your objectives. The ability to multitask is paramount, as you will be monitoring and communicating on multiple radio frequencies both enroute, and while actively engaged in Wildfire Suppression.

Duties

Responsibilities:

  • Serves as an Aircrew Member in both helicopters and airplanes as a mission sensor operator and reports to the MSO Photogrammetrist 3.
  • Provides Initial/extended attack wildland aerial fire incident intelligence operating Airborne Photogrammic Electro Optical/Infrared Collection Cameras systems.
  • Perform digital file translations and manipulations to accommodate various CAD, GIS, and Engineering design systems/programs and assist editing of digital data for natural resource operations.
  • Create Wildland Fire Airborne Intelligence products to include perimeter files and maps, elevation data, topographical maps, fire growth perimeters, Color/Infrared photographs, Live video downloads with interpretation, etc.
  • Operates, maintains, downloads, edits and create airborne reports/maps/intelligence using handheld FLIR devices, Cameras, and advanced Thermal/Infrared/Mapping/Lidar aircraft systems,
  • Performs pre-flight, mission planning, and post-flight duties.
  • Provide Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) and an array of airborne capabilities through the use of full motion video, sensors, and mission equipment for ground fire personnel and Wildland Fire management division.
  • Perform calibration and verification of airborne photography and mapping systems before each use prior to collecting and creating digital products for distribution.
  • Provides Quality Control (QC), processing, and storage of acquired photogrammetric data In Accordance With (IAW) Aviation Operations Plan and Standards (AOPS).
  • Provides IMTs, Fire personnel, and Division Intelligence with aerial intelligence products gathered, analyzed, and processed for use using fire mapping management systems to include ARC GIS Pro, Google Earth, and other fire mapping programs.
  • Assists in Development department’s standards for Aerial Intelligence collection systems to include EO/IR camera systems, downlink systems, LIDAR operations, and data processing for produced gather from those systems which is established by the MSO Photogrammetrist 3.
  • Assists in the administration of the Division’s Mission Sensor Operator training program.
  • Pre-Flights, cleans and determine airworthiness of assigned department EO/IR camera systems, downlink systems, computer mapping systems, and aircraft operator stations with product vendors.
  • Identifies and provides recommendations to the supervisor for new Mission Sensor Operators to be trained.
  • Train and assist in MSO task book completion of other assigned MSOs to the Aviation Section.
  • Serves as an UAS observer, data collection technician and/or pilot when qualified.
  • Assist UAS Program as directed.
  • Training as assigned for recurrent flight training.
  • Conferences, meetings, and trainings nationwide.
  • Duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Intermediate Level Computer Skills.
  • 10 Flight Hours in either a helicopter or small airplane (e.g. Bell 206L4, Kodiak K100, Grand Caravan, etc.).
  • Experience with Crew Resource Management (CRM) procedures as an Aircrew Member.
  • Experience operating FAA/Fire and ground radio communication systems.
  • Experience and Knowledge of aircraft mission flight planning and the National Airspace System (NAS).
  • Experience with developing reports and products via Microsoft Office Suite and Mission Planning Software.
  • Successfully pass annual DNR flight and oral evaluation for Mission Sensor Operator.
  • 1 year of experience processing mapping, data, and GIS operations (ACR GIS Pro, Googe Earth, etc.).
  • Ability to function collaboratively with peers in a fast-paced, stressful environment.
  • Ability to fly up to 8 hours per day.
  • Ability to quickly adapt, learn, and operate airborne electro-optical systems.
  • Ability to consistently make sound decisions with little to no direct supervision.
  • Excellent communication skills both verbal and written.
  • Strong Interpersonal skills.
  • Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.
  • Perform assigned duties in a manner consistent with applicable laws, regulations and public records retention and requests are followed.
  • DNR Core Competencies:
    • Personal Accountability
    • Value Others
    • Compassionate Communication
    • Inspire Others
    • Commitment to Excellence
Special Requirements and Conditions of Employment:
  • This position performs work principally under field conditions. Work schedules can be changed by agency supervisors with minimal notice. Weekend and evening work is routine and includes extensive travel.
  • Considerable travel is required.
  • A valid driver’s license and two years of driving experience. Additionally, DNR requires state drivers to possess a license that is not suspended, revoked, or restricted (for example, Occupational/Restricted Driver Licenses or requiring ignition interlock devices). This position requires driving as an essential function. Finalists and/or interview candidates will be asked to provide a driving record from all states in which they have held a license during the past three years.
  • Must successfully complete DNR Agency required classes within 30 days of employment.
Desired Qualifications:
  • FAA Part 107 Commercial UAS License.
  • Qualified as an Airborne System Operator (e.g. FLIR, Wescam, Trakka, Etc.).
  • A Bachelor’s degree or higher in photogrammetry, cartography, civil engineering, geodesy, geography, forestry, or related field.
  • NWCG Aviation Qualifications (e.g. AOBS, ASGS, AOBD, HMGB, ATGS, ABRO, HECM, etc.).
  • Experience processing mapping, data, and GIS operations.
  • FEMA ICS-100 and ICS-700 courses.
  • Safety Management System (SMS) Familiarity.

Don’t let doubts stop you from applying for this position - If you have any questions about the required qualifications or how your past experience relates to them, please contact us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. A note to potential candidates: Studies have shown that women, trans, non-binary, Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) are less likely to apply for jobs unless they feel they meet every qualification as described in a job description. We value diversity and inclusion in our organization, and we are looking for the best person for the job. Don’t hesitate to apply!

Supplemental Information

Application Requirements: Failure to provide the listed documents may result in disqualification. If you have questions or difficulty attaching these documents, please contact DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov.

  • Apply online: at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).
  • Letter of interest: describing your specific qualifications to the position and position required, desired, and special requirements.
  • Resume: that details your experience and qualifications.
  • References: References are optional at the time your application is submitted. Finalists will be asked to provide a list of at least 3 professional references with current telephone numbers, including your current or most recent supervisor.
  • Important: Do not attach any documents that include photos or private information (social security number, year of birth, etc.).
  • Complete all supplemental questions.
  • Candidates who move forward in the recruitment process may be contacted via email at info@governmentjobs.com with interview information/scheduling instructions. Please monitor the email listed in your application materials and check your junk email folder to ensure you receive those communications.
Optional attachments:
  • FAA Remote Pilot Part 107 Certificate – Current
  • Certificate/Diplomas of relevant completed training
    • FLIR/Sensor Training
    • Military equivalency
    • Downlink System
    • ARC GIS
    • NWCG
Questions? Please contact Mike Burke at 564-233-5287/mike.burke@dnr.wa.gov or e-mail us at DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov

Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email DNRrecruiting@dnr.wa.gov. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.

About the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
At DNR we approach our work through the lens of making Washington a better place environmentally and are dedicated to serving Washington’s lands and communities through diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Our VisionOur actions ensure a future where Washington’s lands, waters, and communities thrive.
Our Mission Manage, sustain, and protect the health and productivity of Washington’s lands and waters to meet the needs of present and future generations.
Our Core Values:
  • Safety and Well-Being —Our top priority is the safety of the public and our employees.
  • Public Service —We value and respect the public we serve, and we value and respect the people of the Department of Natural Resources who step up to serve.
  • Innovation and Creative Problem-Solving — We solve our state’s most pressing challenges through innovative thinking, dedication, and bold and creative vision.
  • Leadership and Teamwork —We are committed to building leaders at all levels and building teams for success.
DNR provides excellent benefits, a few of which include:
  • Commitment to organizational health and wellness
  • Work/life balance
  • DNR Employee Resource Groups (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Council, Women’s Employee Resource Group, Veterans Employee Resource Group, etc.)
  • Statewide Employee Business Resource Groups, visit here to learn more
  • Leadership that empowers and supports employees
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Educational and career development aid
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility
  • Opportunities to participate in wildland fire suppression assignments
  • A comprehensive benefits package that includes employer contributions toward health insurance, paid holidays, retirement plans, sick leave, and vacation days. Visit http://careers.wa.gov/benefits.html for more information.
Additional Information:
This recruitment may be extended and may also be used to fill future similar vacancies for up to sixty (60) days.

DNR does not use the E-Verify system. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Veterans wishing to claim Veteran’s preference please attach a copy of your DD-214, NGB-22, or other verification of military service. Please black out your social security number prior to attaching it. We thank you and are grateful for your service!

Equal Opportunity Employer: The Washington State Department of Natural Resources is an equal opportunity employer. We strive to create a working environment that includes and respects cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual orientation, and gender identity diversity. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, veterans, military spouses or people with military status, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities are encouraged to apply.

Once you submit your online application, you can check your status by logging into your account. If you experience technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email CareersHelp@des.wa.gov.

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