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2026 Helitack Air Crew Lead, WFML
Full-time, Seasonal, Represented positions (WPEA)
Anticipated Seasonal employment is April – September 2026.
Locations: Base of Operations – Wildland Fire Management Division (Olympia, Yakima)
Salary: $3,477.00 - $4,632.00 Monthly 

Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 12/3/25. It is in your best interest to submit materials 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 seeking hardworking, dedicated, responsible, and experienced firefighters to join our Helitack crews based in Yakima and Olympia. Our Helitack crews staff DNR’s initial attack helicopters, and perform preparedness and suppression activities to support DNR’s aviation program.

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 Helitack Air Crew Lead is extremely rewarding.  You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other fire professionals, including area fire districts, and federal and other state partners, giving you exposure to a variety of learning opportunities, agency operations, and the ability to build cohesive relationships across the state of Washington.  You will experience a high level of collaboration within the DNR that will offer a lifetime worth of skills for your future career path.  The experience and training gained can form the foundation for a successful career in fire, forestry, and other natural resource professions.

If you are an experienced wildland firefighter who would like to continue using your fire operations background while flying in and working with helicopters, this is the job for you.

Responsibilities:
Support Aerial Suppression Readiness: 
Ensure aircraft firefighting equipment, Helitack gear/tools, vehicles, facilities, and personnel are prepared and maintained. Assist with aviation suppression training and orientation. Request replacement of equipment and consumable goods through the chain of command. Adhere to WA DNR Aviation Program expectations and aviation operating plans, manuals, and standards. Supports the training of regional staff within the program to obtain aviation qualifications. 

Wildland Fire Suppression:
Accurately relay fire behavior information, implement appropriate fire suppression tactics, while complying with guidelines outlined in the DNR AOPS, NWCG SHO, and IRPG. Complete accurate fire reports, time sheets, and other documentation for fires as requested by the supervisor. Oversight of aircrew members and firefighters working on and with aircraft. In conjunction with the Helicopter Manager, coordinate aircraft operations and communications. 

Assist with Fire Aviation Program Outreach:
Attend community events with assigned aircraft and educate the public on program capabilities. Participate in regional training events to integrate helicopter operations with other federal, state, and local firefighting resources.

Required Qualifications: 
 

  • Two seasons of fire suppression experience qualified as a National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG) Firefighter Type 2 (FFT2).
  • Knowledge of Incident Command System.
  • Effective writing skills, communication skills, and public speaking skills.
  • Accustomed to thinking critically in high-stress, complex situations.
  • Commitment to fostering and supporting an environment that honors diversity, equity, inclusion, and environmental justice practices.