The Musselshell Helitack program has recently been incorporated into the Lochsa Ranger District’s fire organization. The 10 person module consists of five permanent employees and five temporary seasonal employees. Permanent positions currently include one GS-9 Helitack Foreman, one GS-8 Assistant Helitack Foreman, one GS-6 Helitack Squadleader and two GS-5 Senior Firefighters. The remaining five positions are for GS-3/4/5 seasonal employees. GS levels are dependant on experience, individual qualifications, and available funding. To be considered for a position on the crew, a person must be at least 18 yrs of age, be a U.S. citizen, have at least one year of firefighting experience, and meet the requirements set forth in the Interagency Helicopter Operations Guide(IHOG) and FSH 5109.17 Chapter 40. Although previous helitack experience and other qualifications are not a requirement for entry-level positions, they are helpful when competing with other applicants.
Another essential member of the team is the aircraft contractor. For 2007, a new 5 year contract was solicited by the Forest Service for exclusive use to the Santa Fe Helitack and Musselshell Helitack programs. Hillcrest Aircraft was awarded the contract with one of their Bell 206 L-IV’s, N767H. Personnel from Hillcrest will include a primary pilot, relief pilot, and a fuel service vehicle driver. Hillcrest has provided exceptional service to the Clear/Nez zone for most of the last 30 years for CWN and exclusive use contracts.
