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Fixed Wing Parking Tender Incident Position Description

FWPT Incident Position Description

The Fixed Wing Parking Tender (FWPT) facilitates movement of aircraft, vehicles, and equipment in assigned areas and reports to the Ramp Manager (RAMP). The FWPT works in the Air Operations functional area.

Leadership Level 1, Follower (Provide Action)

  • For additional information review Level 1 description, expected behaviors and knowledge, suggested development goals, and self-study opportunities.

Prepare and Mobilize

  • Ensure individual readiness.
  • Gather critical information pertinent to the assignment.
  • Travel to and check in at assignment.
  • Review Base Operations Plan and obtain initial briefing from supervisor.

Supervise and Direct Work Assignments

  • Establish and communicate objectives, priorities, work assignments, and performance expectations.
  • Identify, analyze, and use relevant situational information to make more informed decisions and take appropriate actions.
  • Adjust actions based on changing information and evolving situation awareness. Develop and implement contingency plans. Communicate changing conditions to assigned resources and supervisor.
  • Ensure daily operational objectives and performance standards are met.

Perform Fixed Wing Parking Tender-Specific Duties

  • Coordinate with supervisor and aircrew regarding aircraft ramp movement and assigned area.
  • Direct aircraft movement and communicate effectively with air crews and ramp personnel using the standard hand signals.
  • Act as a wing walker anytime the aircraft is being taxied or parked within 30 feet of an obstacle, or as requested by the Airtanker Base Manager (ATBM), RAMP, or aircrew.
  • Establish and maintain radio contact with aircraft, Aircraft Timekeeper (ATIM), and ramp personnel during ramp operations.
  • Keep assigned area clean and clear of foreign objects and debris (FOD).
  • Allow only essential personnel and vehicles on the ramp during operations.
  • Clear the aircraft for movement (i.e., chocks removed, hoses detached, doors and latches closed, etc.).
  • Maintain constant visual of the pilot in the cockpit to ensure unimpeded communication during arrival, hot loading, simultaneous fueling and loading, startup, and departure.
  • Ensure Ground Support Equipment (GSE) is in the designated safe zone and validate that it is properly secured prior to any aircraft movement.
  • Perform FOD walk of ramp area as directed by supervisor.
  • Monitor the safety of all fueling operations.
  • Relay aircrew requests (retardant, fuel, meals, etc.) to the RAMP/supervisor and/or other appropriate personnel.
  • Maintain tools, vehicles, and other equipment used for airtanker base and ramp operations.
  • Stock water and other supplies to maintain efficiency of ramp operations.
  • Visually check the aircraft and notify pilot immediately of any anomalies with the aircraft, such as signs of leaking, smoking, etc.
  • Direct and oversee wildland fire chemical loading.
  • Provide input to a SAFECOM and/or document actions/issues, as directed.
  • Monitor hot loading operation for safety, efficiency, and proper procedures as stated in the hot loading plan and the NWCG Standards for Airtanker Base Operations (SABO), PMS 508.
  • Monitor simultaneous fueling and loading operations for safety, efficiency, and proper procedures as stated in the SABO and GSE simultaneous fueling and loading plan.

Communicate and Coordinate

  • Obtain briefing from assigned supervisor.
  • Follow established processes and chain of command for collecting, producing, and distributing information.
  • Communicate changing conditions to supervisor.
  • Ensure basic understanding of multichannel radio operation.
  • Participate in briefings and After Action Reviews (AAR).

Manage Risk

  • Work within your skill level and limitations.
  • Apply the Risk Management Process as stated in the NWCG Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG), PMS 461.
  • Ensure compliance with all safety practices and procedures for self and those around you.
  • Utilize chock blocks, fire extinguishers, and required Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) specific to the base.
  • Utilize the base operations plan to guide decisions and actions.
  • Implement emergency response plan as needed.
  • Notify ATBM of any spills, issues, hazards, or emergencies.

Document

Demobilize

  • Follow demobilization instructions from supervisor.
  • Ensure incident and agency demobilization procedures and work/rest standards are followed.
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2024 Wildland Fire Emergency Medical Service Awards

Date: May 22, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Emergency Medical Committee

The NWCG Emergency Medical Committee (EMC) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Wildland Fire Emergency Medical Service Awards. Each year, EMC recognizes individuals and groups who have demonstrated exceptional actions or accomplishments that go above and beyond their normal mission or job duties.

Congratulations to all the awardees and nominees. Through leadership and initiative, they have made significant contributions to the safety and well-being of the wildland fire community. These honors are well deserved.

References:

2024 Wildland Fire EMS Awards

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NWCG Welcomes the Incident Management Teams Association as an Associate Member

Date: May 21, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
https://www.nwcg.gov/contact-us

The NWCG Executive Board is honored to announce that the Incident Management Teams Association (IMTA) has joined the National Wildfire Coordinating Group as an associate member.

IMTA is a dedicated group of incident management professionals committed to enhancing the profession by promoting standards and fostering collaboration across federal, state, local, Tribal, and private sector partners throughout all phases of incident management.

“Joining NWCG aligns with our mission to elevate incident management professionals nationwide,” said Dr. Randal Collins, President of IMTA. “This is a proud moment for all of us committed to advancing public safety.”

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Updated NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431

Date: May 14, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
Fire Use Subcommittee

The updated NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431 serves as a supplemental resource for wildland fire module operations, providing information frequently used in the field.

PMS 431 defines the organizational structure, staffing, and qualifications for Type 1 and Type 2 Wildland Fire Modules, outlining their roles in wildland fire suppression, prescribed fire, and resource management. The NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431, should be used in conjunction with the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Module Operations, PMS 430.

References:

NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Module Operations, PMS 430

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Date: May 13, 2025
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The NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200 has been updated to include newly developed Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) typing standards. These standards organize OHV information into logical categories and outline key safety requirements for occupants.

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200 establishes minimum typing standards for aircraft, crews, and equipment used in national mobilization to wildland fire incidents. Typing designations are assigned based on measurable capability and performance criteria.

References:

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200