The Ember Alliance (TEA) is a national organization of wildland fire practitioners, researchers, analysts, and instructors. The mission of TEA is to restore the relationship between communities and fire on the landscape.  TEA is a just and transparent workplace that strives for clear and kind communication. We are dedicated to a workplace that recognizes the inherent value of our employees, supports work/ life balance, and encourages growth. Learn more about TEA at https://emberalliance.org

Position Description Overview  

The Module Leader will supervise a team with the primary responsibility of data collection using a terrestrial-based LIDAR system as well as traditional vegetation sampling methods.  They will work with cooperators to post process data that gets integrated into Forestry and Fire Management plans. The module will assist with project work, training implementation, or other duties and projects as assigned by the project manager, when not participating in data collection work. This is a full-time, year-round position contingent upon continued funding.  Currently, three years of funding have been awarded. 

Duties & Responsibilities  

• Lead up to a 5-person module in daily operations 

• Collect, process, and store LIDAR data, ensuring accuracy and precision 

• Travel across the priority Eastern Innovation Landscape Network (EILN) DoD lands and US Forest Service (USFS) lands within the Southeast to conduct terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) data collection which will be used to build initial TLS datasets for 3-D fuels characterization and baseline fire effects monitoring for the respective management units 

• Act as crew coordinator including scheduling field work, scouting units, acquiring equipment, and writing SOPs 

• Support logistical needs of the module, including managing and maintaining supplies, equipment, vehicles, lodging, and other needs to implement field work. 

• Operate and maintain LIDAR equipment and ensure proper functioning 

• Troubleshoot technical issues and make necessary repairs 

• Build and maintain partner relationships 

• Create and maintain detailed records of LIDAR equipment usage and performance 

• Record and report daily activities and metrics (units completed, hours worked, etc.) 

• Assist project manager with invoicing and reporting as assigned 

• Provide training and support to team members on LIDAR equipment usage 

• Stay up to date with the latest advancements in LIDAR technology and best practices in data collection 

• Support TLS and other training events as assigned by the project manager 

• Interview candidates for seasonal, permanent, and assistant lead positions as needed 

• Other duties as assigned 

Minimum Qualifications 

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE 

• Experience with GIS and remote sensing applications 

• Experience using iPads and laptops to manage and upload data, ensuring it’s stored in the right databases. 

• Experience with field data collection protocols (wildfire fuels data preferred) 

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills 

• Experience leading teams in field operations 

• Strong technical and problem-solving skills 

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills 

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team 

EDUCATION 

• Minimum of an Associate’s degree OR demonstrates written and verbal communication skills as deemed sufficient by hiring team 

TECHNICAL SKILLS 

• Budget management  

• Written and verbal communication 

• Competent in using Microsoft Suite products including Excel, Word, etc. 

• Able to perform field duties while exposed to adverse conditions such as inclement weather and biting insects and other hazards typical of a backcountry environment 

• Ability to be on foot for prolonged periods of time, including hiking several miles with field gear 

• Proficiency with field navigation including use of map, compass, and GPS 

Desired Qualifications  

• Experience with aerial and terrestrial LIDAR systems 

• National Wildfire Coordinating Group qualifications 

Information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.   

Schedule Requirements 

At least 50% of the position may require extended overnight travel. The average work week is 40 hours, but the schedule may vary based on weather and project needs. 10 to 12-hour days may be frequently required. Projects may require working during weekends and/or up to 14 days continuously, traveling for extended periods of time, remaining overnight near project locations, and working outside of normal business hours with limited notice. 

This is a full-time, year-round position contingent upon continued funding.  Currently, three years of funding have been awarded. 

Duty Station 

Greenville, SC area

Pay and Benefits 

Pay: $26.00/hour 

Overtime will be based on operational needs. Paid leave and paid holiday benefits are provided. Employer-sponsored health and dental care coverage is available upon employment. Employer-matched retirement plan is available 3 months after hire. 

How to Apply 

Interested applicants should review The Ember Alliance website and submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references through the Smart Recruiters website. The deadline to apply for this position is February 20, 2026. Please specify your earliest available start date.