Natural Resources Field Crew

The Natural Resources Field Crew position at Conservation Corps Minnesota and Iowa involves outdoor conservation work, including habitat restoration and natural resource management. Crew members will engage in various physically demanding projects and may require significant travel across the Midwest. The role emphasizes personal growth and teamwork, with opportunities for training and certifications. Ideal candidates are passionate about conservation and willing to commit to a full term of AmeriCorps service.
About the position

The AmeriCorps Field Crew program offers an opportunity for individuals to engage in outdoor conservation work, focusing on restoring habitats and managing natural resources. Crew members will participate in a variety of projects that may include invasive species management, stream bank stabilization, erosion control, prescribed burning, trail construction and maintenance, tree planting, basic carpentry, wildland fire suppression, and emergency response. This role emphasizes personal and professional growth while providing hands-on experience in conservation skills. Crew Leaders, who typically lead a team of 4 to 5 AmeriCorps members, serve as the primary liaison between project hosts and program staff, ensuring the crew's service and safety during each project. The projects are conducted in partnership with various public land management agencies, including the State Department of Natural Resources, US Fish & Wildlife Service, and National Park Service, among others. The work is physically demanding and requires teamwork, taking place in diverse settings across the Midwest, including both urban and wilderness areas. Crew members should be prepared for significant travel, as up to 90% of projects may require out-of-town assignments, which can last from 4 to 12 consecutive days. The typical work schedule is Monday to Thursday, from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM, with the expectation of at least 40 hours of service per week. Training and development opportunities are provided, including orientation, skills training, and certifications in areas such as safety, leadership, and invasive species management. This position is ideal for individuals who are passionate about conservation and are looking to make a meaningful impact while developing valuable skills in the field.

Responsibilities
• Serve outdoors restoring habitat and managing natural resources.
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• Respond to natural disasters or community needs as required.
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• Manage invasive species and implement stream bank stabilization and erosion control measures.
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• Conduct prescribed burning and maintain trails.
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• Plant trees and perform basic carpentry tasks.
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• Engage in wildland fire suppression and emergency response activities.
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• Lead a crew of AmeriCorps members and act as a liaison between project hosts and program staff.
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• Ensure the safety and service of the crew during projects.

Requirements
• Must be a US Citizen, US National, or Lawful Permanent Resident Alien of the US.
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• Age requirement: Between 18-30 years old.
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• High school diploma or GED, or willingness to work towards obtaining a GED.
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• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including heavy lifting (up to 50 pounds) and working on steep or uneven terrain.
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• Willingness to work outdoors in all weather conditions and adapt to changing project needs.
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• Commitment to complete the full term of AmeriCorps service and uphold Corps values of safety, justice, stewardship, community, and leadership.
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• Must pass a criminal history check, including a National Sex Offender Public Website check and state criminal history check.

Nice-to-haves
• CPR Certification
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• Pesticide Applicator's License
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• Experience in teaching or training others

Benefits
• Health insurance
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• Tuition reimbursement
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• Paid time off
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• Employee assistance program
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• Education Award of $7,395 upon successful completion of the program
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• Access to gear lending library
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• Student loan forbearance on qualifying student loans
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• Childcare assistance