2024 Helitack Air Crew Lead, Wfml

Salary : $40,512.00 - $53,964.00 Annually
Location : Multiple Locations Statewide, WA
Job Type: Seasonal
Job Number: 2023-12-12+HelitackWFML-16119
Department: Dept. of Natural Resources
Opening Date: 12/20/2023
Closing Date: Continuous
Salary Information: The high end of the salary range, Step M is typically a longevity step
Description
2024 Helitack Air Crew Lead, WFMLRecruitment #23-12-0904/4578/4793/7377/7378/7383/4590/4599/7379/7656/7657/1155
Full-time, Seasonal, Represented positions
Anticipated Seasonal employment is April -November 2024.
Locations: Base of Operations - Wildland Fire Management Division (Olympia, Yakima)Salary: $3,376.00 - $4,497.00 Monthly
Review of applications is ongoing. The hiring authority reserves the right to make hiring decisions at any time. It is in the applicant's best interest to submit material as soon as possible.
Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
The fire season is quickly approaching! Are you someone who loves firefighting and has an interest in fire aviation? The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is in search of hardworking, dedicated, responsible, and reliable team members to join our Wildland Fire Helitack Crews based in Yakima and Olympia. As a member of one of our Wildland Fire Helitack Crews, you will perform pre-suppression and suppression-related activities.
Firefighting is hard work and requires long hours and time away from home. You must be willing and capable of performing strenuous outdoor work safely and productively. Working for the DNR as a Wildland Firefighter is extremely rewarding. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other fire professionals including area fire districts, federal and other state partners; giving you exposure to various learning opportunities, agency operations, and the ability to build cohesive relationships across the state of Washington. You will experience a different level of collaboration within the DNR, offering a lifetime worth of skills for your future career path. The experience and training gained as a member of an engine crew can form the foundation for a successful career in forestry and other natural resource professions.
The duration of these positions is generally 3-6 months with work beginning as early as May and ending in late September (note: the season has the potential to begin as early as April and run as late as October). Upon hire, basic wildland fire training is provided. This training will usually take place at the agency's fire academy. The academy provides meals and lodging for all participants and has a duration of 7-14 days.
Duties
Responsibilities:
Support Suppression Readiness
Ensures aircrew members' suppression equipment is prepared for initial attack, including fire line gear, PPE, tools, chain saws, drip torches, Bambi Bucket maintenance, external use equipment inspections, vehicle cleanliness, and daily inspections. Maintains accurate MER and maintenance record books for chase vehicles. Complete accurate TAR and travel documentation. Assist with aviation suppression training and orientation. Request through the Helicopter Manager any needs or replacements for equipment. Is competent in tasks outlined in WADNR Aviation Program expectations and Aviation Operating Plans, Manuals, and Standards as it pertains to helicopter operations for the DNR. Supports engagement and training of regional staff detailed with the program working on aviation qualifications.
Wildland Fire Suppression
Accurately relay fire behavior information to dispatch and to the supervisor. With approval from the Helicopter Manager, safely implements appropriate fire suppression tactics, complying with safety guidelines outlined in the fire line handbook, IHOG, and IRPG. Complete accurate fire reports, IIRs, and time sheets for fires as requested by the supervisor. Oversight of aircrew members and firefighters working on and with aircraft.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:

• Knowledge of Incident Command System.
• Qualified as National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) Firefighter Type 2 (FFT2) with the ability to become qualified as a Helicopter Crew Member (HECM) within 6 months.
• Effective writing skills, communication skills, and public speaking skills.
• 1 or more seasons of Wildland Fire experience as FFT2.
• Ability to think critically in high stress, complex situations.
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity and 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:

• Must pass the work capacity test at the arduous level required by current red card qualifications.
• Field and Office: The position's assigned duty station is Olympia or Yakima (depending on the hiring unit). Duties involve field work in hazardous environments on fires, requiring physical performance calling for above-average endurance and superior conditioning. Ability to carry up to 60 lbs., run, bend, twist, walk, and/or climb while working outdoors in all terrain and weather conditions.
• Requires a large majority of time in the field traveling between fire assignments and fire training. The position requires frequent overnight travel and extended work assignments generally 14 days in length with infrequent travel of 21 days.
• A valid unrestricted driver's license and have two years of driving experience. 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.

Desired Qualifications:

• Qualified as a Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1).
• Qualified as an Incident Commander Type 5 (ICT5).
• One (1) or more years of supervisory experience.
• Knowledge of outdoor burning regulations, policies, and procedures.

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 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:

• To be considered you must apply online at www.careers.wa.gov (Click on the APPLY button above).
• Attach a letter of interest describing how your experience and qualifications relate to the position profile and the position required, desired, and special requirements.
• Attach a resume describing your experience and qualifications.
• Provide three to five professional references - you may attach a document, use the References text field in the online application, or include it with your resume.
• 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 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.

Questions? Please contact Brian Looper at (360)480-1254 or Will Dickinson at (509) 899-0767 or e-mail us at
PRIOR to reporting to the Pack Test, you will be required to turn in a completed Waiver and Release Form and a Completed Health Screening Questionnaire (HSQ). Applicants are strongly encouraged to train for the arduous level work capacity test. However, before you begin to train for testing or before substantially increasing your level of activity please review the health screening questionnaire (HSQ) and consult your health care provider if necessary. You may contact DNRRecruiting at for a copy of the HSQ.
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.
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
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. Persons needing accommodation in the application/testing process or this job announcement in an alternative format may call (360) 522-2500 or email Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through the by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
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
Check us out on: | | | | |
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
<...