BOISE BLM HELITACK

WHO WE ARE

Boise BLM Helitack is a 24-person crew that operates with a Sikorsky UH-60 Helicopter.  This is an experimental 5-year program testing the viability of that aerial platform.

The primary mission of the Boise BLM Helitack program is initial attack, both locally and nationally.  Boise BLM Helitack strives to provide professional expertise in wildland fire suppression and management in the safest, most efficient and effective manner.  Additionally, Boise BLM Helitack personnel will be the leaders in aviation supporting Boise District management objectives in both fire and non-fire resource projects.

Given this priority, Boise BLM Helitack operates under the following premise: Boise BLM Helitack performs suppression and support operations on initial attack, extended attack, and large fire support.  We place a high degree of emphasis on professionalism, physical fitness, and aim to provide a versatile, service-oriented, low-maintenance, highly skilled initial attack program that can provide ICS overhead on emerging incidents, or effectively integrate into existing ones.

WORK DATES / PAY / ORGANIZATION

The Boise Helitack Crew starts in late April/early May and works until the end of the helicopter contract, typically in the first part of October.  Late season work options available in most seasons. Helitack crew members are hired as seasonal firefighters not to exceed 1039 hours in one calendar year. Each individual will receive overtime pay for work hours in excess of the scheduled 8 hour daily base and hazard pay while working on active wildland fires.

The Boise Helitack Crew believes in providing developmental opportunities for our employees. The crew has been very active in facilitating and accepting fire assignments, training assignments, and details in all aspects of the fire organization.

WHO DO WE WANT?

Boise BLM Helitack typically seeks to fill a limited number of positions on the crew each year. We are looking for self-motivated, physically fit employees who can thrive in a dynamic work environment, conduct themselves in a professional manner, and contribute positively to our program and the Boise District BLM.   

For seasonal employment, applicants must have one season (3-months) of fire experience to be considered on the crew.  Minimum qualification is FFT2.  Additional qualifications such as FFT1, HECM and ICT5 are beneficial but not required.  Applicants must meet all agency requirements for employment in a primary firefighting job.  The application process begins in late November to early December and typically closes in early January. 

Check USAJOBS for possible job opportunities.  Please see the online job descriptions for required minimum qualifications.  It is highly encouraged to submit your application as early as possible in order to receive consideration, and be sure to select Boise, ID as the duty location.

For more information, or to apply, please refer to the FIRES website:

  http://www.firejobs.doi.gov

  http://www.usajobs.gov

or Contact

Ray Raddatz - Crew supervisor @ 208-871-7537 rraddatz@blm.gov

Dave Frey @ 208-871-7533 dfrey@blm.gov