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Helicopter Crewmember

HECM Incident Position Description

The Helicopter Crewmember (HECM) serves as a member of a helicopter crew, assisting the Helicopter Manager, Single Resource (HMGB), or may fulfill a role at a helibase as assigned by the Helibase Manager (HEBM) in the performance and completion of the helicopter missions. The HECM reports to the HMGB or HEBM and works in the Aviation functional area.

 

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Leadership Level 1, Follower (Provide Action)

  • For additional information review Level 1 description, expected behaviors and knowledge, suggested development goals, and self-study opportunities.

Prepare and Mobilize

  • Ensure individual readiness.
  • Gather critical information pertinent to the assignment.
  • Travel to and check in at assignment.
  • Obtain briefing from previous shift/assignment, as necessary.

Build the Team

  • Conduct self in a professional manner.
  • Identify and participate in a common operating picture.
  • Apply Incident Command System (ICS) terminology, organization, and command structure.
  • Model leadership values and principles.

Supervise and Direct Work Assignments

  • Implement objectives, priorities, work assignments, and performance expectations.

Perform Helicopter Crewmember-Specific Duties

  • Use personal protective equipment (PPE) properly.
  • Prepare and manage cargo.
  • Prepare manifests.
  • Brief and direct personnel for passenger transport.
  • Facilitate helicopter logistics.
  • Identify in-flight helicopter emergency procedures and demonstrate proper crash rescue actions.
  • Ensure familiarity with helicopter configurations.
  • Ensure in-flight discipline.
  • Construct and/or manage a helispot.
  • Manage a dipsite.
  • Communicate with helicopters.
  • Be familiar with Safety Management System (SMS).
  • Recognize and practice Crew Resource Management (CRM).
  • Obtain and appropriately apply load calculations.

Perform Fireline Duties

  • Perform firefighter duties. 

Communicate and Coordinate

  • Demonstrate strong verbal communication skills.
  • Ensure proper use of radios.
  • Conduct and/or participate in After Action Reviews (AARs).

Manage Risk

Document

  • Complete all administrative tasks and documentation in an accurate and timely manner. 

Demobilize

  • Prepare for and implement demobilization. 

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Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident Operations Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce the new S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) incident qualifications. 

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References:

S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) (Instructor-led)

NWCG Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) Position Page

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Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: NWCG Executive Secretary

NWCG is proud to celebrate 50 years of service to the wildland fire community. Beginning in 1976 with an interagency agreement between the Department of Interior and Department of Agriculture, NWCG has grown to include additional member agencies and is recognized as the standard-setting leader in wildland fire operations.

To honor where we’ve been and highlight where we are going, the NWCG team has created a video showcasing our history and accomplishments. The video is now available on the NWCG website.

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NWCG 50 Year Anniversary Video

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Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
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NWCG Firefighter Type 1 (Squad Boss) Position Page

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Date: March 4, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: WFLDP Curriculum Management

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The six books chosen for this year are: How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie; Leadership Strategy and Tactics by Jocko Willink; Meditations by Marcus Aurelious; Quiet by Susan Cain; The Little Book of Stoic Quotes by Phil Van Treuren; and The Confident Mind by Nate Zinsser.

References:

Professional Reading Program

Wildland Fire Leadership Development Program