Fall Crew Member - Montana Conservation Corps
Position Summary
The Crew Member (CM) will assist in the successful completion of MCC natural resource and community service projects. This is not a 9-5 job; rather it is an experience where long hours and extended time away from your home base are to be expected. Crews will camp for most of their terms, oftentimes in remote locations in varied terrain and in all weather conditions. Work may include building or maintaining trails, treating or removing invasive species, building fences, operating chainsaws to reduce wildfire risks by thinning trees, among many other types of projects. Not all CMs will work on all types of projects. Crews may be deployed for natural disaster relief. CMs are expected to participate in all elements of the MCC program to the best of their ability, performing designated crew role functions and maintaining a positive attitude throughout the program. The CM will also establish and maintain a good working relationship with other partner personnel, Crew Leaders, MCC staff and any volunteers who come into contact with the crew. The Crew Member is an AmeriCorps member and is entitled to the benefit package offered all AmeriCorps members.
- Forest Stewardship Program: Participants in MCC’s Forest Stewardship Program become proficient at using chainsaws to restore native ecosystem, reduce threats of wildfire, and improve forest health. Our Forest (and Prairie) Stewardship Program prepares the next generation of wildfire fuels reduction and habitat restoration professionals. Program participants learn chainsaw safety, maintenance, and sharpening techniques, and hone saw skills for bucking, limbing, and felling. Participants will also receive a Sawyer B Chainsaw Certification (valid for Wildlands Firefighter positions)
- Resource Conservation Program: MCC’s Resource Conservation program is our foundation for conservation – quintessential MCC. Corps members serve on diverse projects including trail building, fencing, weed management, wildlife restoration, and more. Typically serving on 5-9 day “hitches” at diverse project sites, from community parks to national parks, urban trails to lost trails in the backcountry, Resource Conservation crews are often our farthest ranging crews, discovering a diversity of wildlands.
- Backcountry Trails Program: For a fully immersive, remote, Rocky Mountains experience, check out the Backcountry Trails Program. You’ll clear, build and maintain trails with traditional tools. You’ll camp out every night and spend a lot of time hiking. Backcountry Trails Program participants develop strong connections with project partners and with the land.
Programmatic Duties
- Ensure safety is the top priority during all MCC activities and projects; promote a ‘culture of safety’
- Accomplish project goals to the standards and satisfaction of MCC, Crew Leaders, and project partners/technical advisors
- Follow all MCC policies and procedures contributing to the overall functioning of the crew and creating a healthy and supportive crew environment
- Perform designated crew roles of crew journalist, tool or vehicle swamper
- Willingly participate in all elements of the MCC Member Development program, education, and crew activities to the best of his/her ability
- Promote a positive public image for MCC by wearing the MCC uniform and acting in a professional and respectful manner at all times
- Attend, assist, or lead MCC service days and other MCC events, help organize and implement service projects when possible
- Work alongside youth and adult volunteers on projects and provide leadership when possible
- Exhibit a strong work ethic and positive service ethic throughout the term of service
- Attend at least one public meeting and volunteer with local non-profit groups or agencies
Administrative Duties
- Complete and submit required reports and other paperwork in a timely manner
- Provide information for evaluation of Crew Leaders, including both positive feedback and areas of potential improvement
Qualifications
- High school degree, GED, or willingness to work towards obtaining a GED
- Minimum age of 18
- US Citizenship or lawful permanent US Resident
- Ability to hike 3-12 miles per day in terrain that can be steep, rocky or uneven, often wearing a 45lb backpack while carrying tools and sometimes backpacking with full packs of 60-70lbs
- Ability to lift up to 35 pounds repeatedly and use hand and power tools
- Ability to pass a National Service Criminal History Check
- Available for duration of entire term of service; commitment to completing term
- Strong service ethic and desire to serve the community and the environment
- Willingness to work long, hard hours in all weather conditions; ability to be away on overnight trips for up to 10 days at a time