DeathStar, you have the right machine for the job. It may not be the most 'pilot comfy' ship but it will work hard in that environment like precious little else will.
As for:
with 500 hours on a 750 xl... they have either taken another job or shot themselves.
I guess I'm in the former category but all the best with your personnel hunting. Pacific Aerospace could put you in touch with some established operators and LAME's, some whom might be willing to provide some 'field experience' feedback and insights.