Training: As an AmeriCorps service-learning program and to prepare AmeriCorps Members for service in-the-field, WCCC provides orientation and technical skills training at the start of the program term in addition to region or project specific training throughout the service term. Focuses include Leave No Trace principles, technical skills for projects, tool use/maintenance, S-212 chainsaw safety training and certification, First Aid/CPR certifications, herbicide application, trail building, fence construction, procedures surrounding risk management and best practices.

Overview: The Western Colorado Conservation Corps offers opportunities for young adults to spend a season serving on meaningful conservation projects throughout Western Colorado. Projects may include a variety of trail construction/maintenance, fence construction/removal, invasive species removal, fire fuels reduction, habitat restoration and/or historic preservation. AmeriCorps members have the opportunity to earn up to $3,447.50 in addition to a bi-weekly stipend, from an AmeriCorps Education Award (restrictions apply). Members must not engage in any prohibited activities as listed in the AmeriCorps Member Service Agreement.

The position also requires preparation time and post-session clean up.  

Essential Position Functions:

Act as an assistant to the Crew Leader in:

• Mentoring and leading a crew of 8-12 individuals, 17-28 years old, in day-to-day service activities on the project site and at camp
• Giving guidance and responsibilities to Crew Members to facilitate their personal growth and development
• Overseeing camp operations including camp hygiene, Leave No Trace principles, and all other camp elements involved with safety and risk management
• Complete 9 hours of service a day for 5 - 8 days while camping in a variety of outdoor conditions, including inclement weather, for the duration of the term (No prior experience required)
• Submitting written and digital data on projects, and expenses on a weekly basis to field staff
• Assist in meal planning for crew during upcoming projects.
• Coordinating projects and logistics on the ground with WCCC Staff, fellow leaders, and project partners
• Transport crew safely in WCCC’s vans or other vehicles while towing a trailer
• Perform duties expected of any corps member including service project completion, meal preparation, cleanup/setup, and other day-to-day duties
• Support and assist Leader during service projects such as trail building and maintenance, wildlife habitat restoration, fence building and maintenance, and invasive species removal
• Support and assist Leader while planning recreational and educational activities, food and equipment preparation and maintenance, and program evaluation
• Live, work, and serve closely with a diverse group of people
• Must adhere to and enforce the rules and regulations of WCCC and AmeriCorps, which includes abstaining from the use of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco as well as other rules, regulations, and risk management protocol

Service Environment:

This position requires arduous physical activity in adverse weather conditions. Assistant Crew Leaders must be physically fit and able to lift, bend, carry, push and other heavy physical labor.

Qualifications:

No experience necessary! However, you must:

• Be a United states citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident
• Be available full time between the dates specified on the Member Service Agreement
• Able to pass a pre-service National Criminal History check (State, Sex Offender, and Federal)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience teaching outdoor and/or environmental education curriculum and other leadership experience
• Excellent organization and communication skills
• Passion for an outdoor lifestyle
• Committed to making a positive difference in youth
• High School Diploma or GED

Requirements:

• Be a United states citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident
• Be available full time between the dates specified on the Member Service Agreement
• Be between the ages of 18-28
• Able to pass a pre-service National Criminal History check (State, Sex Offender, and Federal)
• Current driver’s license with an insurable driving record
• Willingness to serve long, hard hours in all weather conditions; ability to be away on overnight trips for up to 8 days at a time
• Ability to commit to the entirety of your AmeriCorps term of service with WCCC
• Ability to serve on diverse teams or with a diverse range of people
• Ability to typically lift 30-50 lbs. repeatedly
• Hiking up to 12 miles per day
• Be willing and able to run a chainsaw, use hand tools and herbicide equipment with appropriate training
• Must be able to complete arduous service in adverse weather conditions (i.e., snow, rain, excessive heat)