Wildfire Mitigation & Response Lead (Abilene/San Angelo, TX)

Job Posting End Date

09-22-2025

Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date

Job Summary

The Wildfire Mitigation & Response Lead plays a critical role in leading efforts to reduce wildfire risk across AEP's service territory. This position is responsible for the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of comprehensive wildfire mitigation strategies, ensuring alignment with regulatory requirements, industry best practices, and AEP's safety and reliability goals. The Lead will oversee fire prevention initiatives, emergency response coordination, fire investigation, stakeholder engagement, and internal training programs.

Job Description

WHAT YOU'LL DO
 

Wildfire Prevention & Risk Reduction
•    Lead wildfire risk assessments and the development of mitigation plans.
•    Collaborate with vegetation management, asset management, and operations teams to implement effective fire prevention strategies.
•    Monitor environmental conditions and fire weather indices to guide operational decisions.
•    Integrate wildfire risk data into system planning and asset prioritization.
Emergency Response & Incident Support
•    Serve as wildfire specialist and subject matter expert during emergency events.
•    Coordinate with internal emergency management teams and external agencies (e.g., fire departments) during wildfire incidents.
•    Supports leadership roles in the Incident Command System (ICS) as needed.
•    Oversee post-incident reviews and after-action reporting.
Fire Investigation
•    Supports and coordinates with investigations of utility-involved fire incidents.
•    Coordinate with regulatory agencies, insurance representatives, and legal teams.
•    Ensure documentation and evidence are maintained in accordance with company and legal standards.
Stakeholder Collaboration
•    Build and maintain relationships with local, state, and federal fire agencies, regulatory bodies, and community organizations.
•    Represent AEP in wildfire-related working groups, task forces, and public meetings.
•    Drive public outreach and education efforts related to wildfire safety and preparedness.
Training & Program Development
•    Develop and deliver advanced wildfire mitigation training for internal teams, including field crews, operations, and leadership.
•    Stay informed on emerging technologies, regulations, and best practices in wildfire mitigation.
•    Contribute to the continuous improvement of AEP's Wildfire Mitigation Plan (WMP).

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
 

Required:
•    5+ years of experience in wildfire mitigation, utility operations, emergency response, or related field.
•    In-depth knowledge of wildfire behavior, fire weather, and utility infrastructure.
•    Experience with ICS and emergency response coordination.
•    Strong communication, analytical, and project management skills.
Preferred:
•    Bachelor's degree in Fire Science, Forestry, Emergency Management, Environmental Science, Engineering, or related equivalent field.
•    Certifications such as Firefighter, Fire Investigator, or equivalent.
•    Experience leading utility wildfire mitigation programs.
•    Familiarity with GIS, risk modeling tools, and fire weather monitoring platforms.
Working Conditions:
•    Field and office-based work with travel across AEP's service territory.
•    Availability for emergency response during wildfire events, including nights and weekends.
•    Ability to work in rugged terrain and adverse weather conditions.

WHAT YOU'LL GET

Base Salary: approximately $113K - $146K

In addition to base salary, AEP offers competitive Total Rewards including: discretionary annual incentive, 401(k), pension, health insurance, vacation, educational assistance, etc.

WHO WE ARE

At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!

AMERICAN ELECTRIC POWER (on-site)

$113K - $146K / Year

#AEPCareers

#LI-ONSITE

Compensation Data

Compensation Grade:

SP20-009

Compensation Range:

$112,869.00-146,730.50 USD