National Avalanche Center Forecast Platform Manager

About the role

The National Avalanche Center seeks a seasoned professional to lead its forecast platform and avalanche safety program. This position oversees training, forecasting, budgeting, and partnership development to ensure accurate mountain weather advisories and public safety.

Key responsibilities

• Direct and supervise avalanche training, education, and certification for permittees, the public, and Forest Service personnel.
• Provide leadership and guidance to regional avalanche professionals and coordinate with other Forest Service Avalanche Centers and agencies such as the National Weather Service.
• Evaluate National Weather Service products and generate daily mountain weather forecasts incorporated into avalanche advisories.
• Develop, manage, and track program budgets, short‑ and long‑range financial plans, and grant applications.
• Build and maintain partnerships with private businesses, public agencies, and community groups to secure funding and support.
• Oversee field operations, advisory issuance, and warning dissemination.
• Perform supervisory duties as needed (up to 20% of time).

Required profile

• U.S. citizen or national; eligible for background investigation and E‑Verify.
• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent experience) in physical science, engineering, or mathematics with at least 24 semester hours in relevant coursework (e.g., mechanics, dynamics, materials properties, electronics).
• Demonstrated experience in avalanche training, weather forecasting, budget preparation, grant writing, and partnership development.
• Ability to work collaboratively with multiple government agencies and community stakeholders.

Required skills

• Weather forecasting
• Budget management
• Grant writing
• Avalanche training and certification
• Stakeholder liaison

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead a national safety program within the U.S. Forest Service.
• Engagement with a multidisciplinary team of avalanche professionals.
• Professional development through training and inter‑agency collaboration.