Part-time, Permanent, Represented position
Salary: $5,929.00 - $7,971.00 Monthly
(See official listing for full position details and application instructions. Be sure to review and attach all required documents to move forward in the recruitment process.)
Review of applications is ongoing. We reserve the right to make a hiring decision or close this recruitment at any time after 01/02/2025. It is in your best interest to submit materials as soon as possible.
Want to join something GREAT and make a difference?
Looking for a fast-paced, exciting, and rewarding career in Wildfire? The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has an exciting opportunity within our Wildland Fire Management Division - Aviation Section as an Aerial Wildland Firefighter Helicopter Pilot. DNR Aviation utilizes 10 UH-1H helicopters to aid in fire suppression across the state of Washington. You will be responsible for safely piloting the aircraft at low altitudes and in mountainous terrain. The mission profile of our helicopters includes Bambi Bucket Water Drops and internal/external Cargo Delivery. Additionally, you will perform fire reconnaissance, detection, photography, and Helitack Crew Insertion/Transport.
This position requires a motivated individual who works effectively in a team environment but also possesses the ability to operate and make split-second decisions independently. You will be required to communicate effectively with aircrew, ground resources, and other aerial resources to accomplish your objectives. The ability to multitask is paramount, as you will be monitoring and communicating on multiple radio frequencies both en route and while actively engaged in Wildfire Suppression.
Responsibilities:
- Functions as Pilot in Command of a DNR assigned UH-1H under various mission requirements including but not limited to: Passenger and equipment transportation, survey and photography, law enforcement support, search and rescue.
- Functions as Pilot in Command of a DNR assigned UH-1H helicopter supporting initial attack wildfire suppression operations including 1) Helitack Crew insertions and 2) delivery of water/foam fire retardants using external buckets or tanks. Coordinates airborne firefighting activities with the DNR Helicopter Manager assigned or until supervision is passed to the Incident Commander or the Air Tactical Group Supervisor.
- Provides extended attack wildfire support when assigned.
- Duties include application of fire retardants, recharging portable tanks for ground firefighting crews, transporting personnel to/from unimproved and/or confined heliports, internal cargo transport (including hazardous materials), reconnaissance flights over wildfires, and delivering of external cargo utilizing longlines and sling loads.
- Maintains the assigned helicopter in a rapid response status to support UH-1H missions assigned above or initial attack suppression actions; including daily aircraft inspections, oversight of aircraft fuel levels, and aircraft cleanliness.
- Maintains aircraft flight reports and logs.
- Periodically inventories and inspects assigned equipment.
- Ensures proper equipment is onboard and available for passengers.
- Prepares reports of fire activities and other work performed as required.
- Participates in recurrent proficiency flights and evaluations to demonstrate skills needed for this assignment.
- Performs assessments of flight-related documents for the Chief Pilot.
- Demonstrates knowledge of rules/regulations from multiple agencies pertinent to the position.
- Assists in the coordination/conduct of training activities/events and classes (site selection, preparation, risk mitigation).
- Able to present assigned classes in a group forum.
- Performs field-level preventative maintenance on helicopters and related equipment such as buckets, long lines, and tanks.
- Under the direction of the Maintenance Supervisor, assists aircraft mechanics during field inspections and repairs.
