The crew member position is an entry-level role. Crew members with ACC serve on a crew with four crew members and two crew leaders who provide project expertise, mentorship, training, and support for the success of all participants. While prior experience with the outdoors or outdoor work can be helpful, it is not a necessity for this position. We ask that crew members embrace learning opportunities, face challenges, and build community with their crew.    

Typically, crews will meet at the ACC office in Harrisonburg, travel in a crew vehicle to their project site, and remain in the field for 9 days at a time, followed by 5 days off. Projects take place across the Appalachian Region, including partnerships with the US Forest Service, National Park Service, and other land managers.    

During their time in the field, crew members work outdoors in all types of weather conditions, performing heavy manual labor related to environmental conservation and restoration projects. These hands-on projects include visitor access improvements, trail construction and maintenance, habitat restoration, invasive species removal, re-vegetation, and much more. Most projects require hiking out to remote work sites for the day with tools, equipment, and day pack.