Helitack Wildland Firefighter - Fireline & Aerial Ops

Forest Service (DOA); Payson (AZ); On-site; USD 29,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

The Forest Service seeks a wildland firefighter to join a helitack crew, performing advanced suppression duties and operating specialized equipment across multiple duty locations (AZ/NM). The role emphasizes loading helicopters, inspecting gear, and coordinating personnel and cargo for firefighting tasks.

Applicants must meet NWCG qualifications (FFT1/S-290), be prepared for arduous fitness requirements, and undergo background checks and drug testing.

Qualifications

• GW-05: One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GW-04 grade level in federal service or equivalent; OR successful completion of a 4-year course of study in Fire Science, Fire Training, Fire Technology or other related fields.

Responsibilities

• Independently performs recurring fire suppression duties on a helitack crew as a senior firefighter.
• Loads helicopter personnel and cargo considering methods, weight distribution, necessity for securing, total weight, etc., and completes manifests of personnel and equipment being transported to the fire or other work site.
• Inventories and inspects helicopter accessories, fire tools, and equipment. Assures that needed tools and equipment are available for firefighting tasks.

Job description

The Forest Service seeks a wildland firefighter to join a helitack crew, performing advanced suppression duties and operating specialized equipment across multiple duty locations (AZ/NM). The role emphasizes loading helicopters, inspecting gear, and coordinating personnel and cargo for firefighting tasks.

Applicants must meet NWCG qualifications (FFT1/S-290), be prepared for arduous fitness requirements, and undergo background checks and drug testing.