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Helitack Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Helitack information

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$8

$26

$61

How much do helitack jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for helitack in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Helitack job?

A Helitack job involves fighting wildfires using helicopters for rapid deployment, suppression, and support. Helitack crews are specially trained to rappel from helicopters, transport personnel and equipment, and conduct water or retardant drops. They play a critical role in accessing remote fire locations quickly and effectively. These firefighters must be physically fit, capable of working in extreme conditions, and skilled in aviation safety procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Helitack position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Helitack, you need strong physical fitness, firefighting knowledge, and the ability to work safely around helicopters, typically supported by wildfire training and certifications such as S-130/S-190 (Basic Wildland Firefighting) and Helicopter Crew Member training. Familiarity with specialized equipment like chainsaws, radios, fire shelters, and helicopter safety protocols is essential. Teamwork, adaptability, and sound judgment under pressure are crucial soft skills for success in the field. These abilities ensure the safety and effectiveness of wildfire suppression operations in often hazardous and rapidly changing environments.

What is a typical work environment like for Helitack crew members?

Helitack crew members often work in challenging outdoor environments, responding to wildland fires in remote and rugged locations that are accessed primarily by helicopter. The job requires long shifts, variable hours, and adaptability to rapidly changing fire conditions, sometimes involving extended stays in field camps or mobile bases. Team members collaborate closely, relying on strong communication and trust to safely conduct aerial insertions, manage firelines, and execute emergency evacuations. Due to the dynamic nature of wildfire incidents, the role is highly team-oriented and demands both individual initiative and strict adherence to safety protocols at all times. This experience can lead to opportunities for advancement into specialized leadership or aviation roles within wildland firefighting.
What are the most commonly searched types of Helitack jobs? The most popular types of Helitack jobs are:
What states have the most Helitack jobs? States with the most job openings for Helitack jobs include:
Infographic showing various Helitack job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Temporary. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,791 per year, or $26.3 per hour.
Wildland Firefighter (Helitack Senior Firefighter) - Direct Hire Authority

Wildland Firefighter (Helitack Senior Firefighter) - Direct Hire Authority

Department of the Interior

Billings, MT • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


U.S. Department Of The Interior rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

289th of 638 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Wildland Firefighter (Helitack Senior Firefighter)

As a Wildland Firefighter (Helitack Senior Firefighter) - Direct Hire Authority your duties will include but are not limited to the following:

  • Incumbent is a trained wildland firefighter on a helitack crew.
  • Assignments may include loading helicopters, determining weight calculations, completing crew manifest and accessing remote areas by helicopter to instruct helispots, or to attack small fires, hot spots, and spot fires.
  • May be assigned to carry out specialized assignments such as tree falling, backfire and burnout operations; utilizes a variety of specialized tools, equipment and techniques while actively managing wildfires.
  • May be required to operate light vehicles and 4X4s.

What U.S. Department Of The Interior employees say

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