Individual Placement - Ecological Restoration Crew

The position is for six Ecological Restoration Crew Members in Culloden, GA, focusing on invasive species removal, prescribed burning, and habitat restoration. Crew members will receive training and certifications in wildfire management. The job offers hands-on experience in wildlife conservation and ecology. The schedule runs from November 11, 2025, to April 27, 2026, with a compensation of $500 per week and provided housing.
Position Summary

6 Ecological Restoration Crew Members You will be part of a six-person ecological restoration crew in West Central Georgia. Work includes Invasive species removal, prescribed burning, including firebreak construction, fuels reduction, burn operations, and monitoring as well as habitat restoration. You will receive your basic Wildland Firefighter Type 2 training as well as S212 (Wildland Fire Chainsaws) and ATV/UTV safety course certifications. This position is a great way to add a lot of skills, certifications, and field work experience to your resume if you are considering a position in wildlife, forestry or similar fields. This crew typically burns over 10,000 acres/year in 30 or more burn operations. This is a great opportunity for learning about the ecosystems of the Southeast, rare species ecology, prescribed fire, and habitat management. You will work with several different biologists from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, The Nature Conservancy, US Forest Service, Georgia State Parks and other agencies, as well as volunteers. Leadership opportunities will be available on the Fireline. Working state-wide will offer opportunities to recreate at numerous state parks (biking, hiking, canoeing) as well as chances to experience the local culture.

Location

Culloden, GA

Schedule

November 11, 2025 - April 27, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities

You and your crew will be involved with removing invasive exotic species using herbicides and chainsaws, planting longleaf pine and other species, marking timber for harvests, maintaining a canoe trail/campground, and assisting in sensitive and endangered species surveys and recovery. Prescribed fire operations will make up a significant portion of the projects and will be carried out by SCA Members under the supervision of an experienced cadre. Tasks include executing day-of prescribed fire operations, as well as unit preparation and potential post-burn monitoring.

Marginal Duties

Campground maintenance.

Rare species surveys.

Required Qualifications

Successful applicants must pass the arduous pack test within 2 weeks of hire as a condition of employment. Applicants must have a passion for and a willingness to learn about wildlife conservation, thrive in a team-oriented environment, and demonstrate resilience with a constructive attitude during challenging situations.

Hours

40 per week

Living Accommodations

Housing will be provided for crew members through the duration of their service.

Compensation
• Living allowance: $500/week
• One-time relocation travel allowance: $650
• Up to $250, reimbursement for purchase of boots.

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

Personal Vehicle Information

Not needed

Additional Benefits

Basic Wildland Firefighter Type 2 training

S212 (Wildland Fire Chainsaws)

ATV/UTV safety course certifications

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.