TIME REQUIREMENTS:

• START DATE: March 16, 2026
• END DATE: October 23, 2026

1200-hour AmeriCorps Term; Full-time, 40+ hours per week. It is typical to have a varied schedule.  Overnights, weekends, training days, and service events are required. Commitment to the entire duration of the term is of utmost importance.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Team Leaders are an integral part of the Maine Conservation Corps (MCC) mission to accomplish conservation projects that inspire people and enhance communities. As a Team Leader, you will expand outdoor recreational opportunities to Maine’s woods, waters, and mountains, while protecting these precious natural resources. Additionally, Team Leaders are AmeriCorps members and will receive professional skill development and certifications, team-based service learning, the opportunity to live and serve in unique locations, a living allowance, an education award, and more. MCC is a division of the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry within the Bureau of Parks and Lands and operates a State AmeriCorps program. MCC engages 90+ AmeriCorps members annually to accomplish conservation initiatives.

Apply to be an MCC Field Team Leader today!

LOCATION: Training will be based out of a summer camp.  Service projects during training will be held at other locations, such as Maine State Parks or Public Lands. Field projects after training are conducted state-wide in National and State Parks, Public Lands, Municipalities, and non-profit organizations.

MCC Office: 54 Independence Drive, Augusta, ME 04330

LEARN: The first 12 weeks of the term of service will focus on developing leadership and conservation skills through formal training and field-based learning that are transferable to a wide variety of careers. Team Leader Training topics include:

• Wilderness First Aid
• Mental Health Education
• Chainsaw Safety
• FEMA Courses
• Nonviolent Communication
• Hand and Power Tools
• Technical Trail Building
• Leave No Trace
• Outdoor Leadership
• Camping and Backpacking
• Conservation Project Management
• Volunteer Management
• Job Readiness
• Networking Opportunities

LEAD AND SERVE: Upon demonstration of essential competencies, Team Leaders will assume the roles and responsibilities of leading a team of AmeriCorps members on various outdoor conservation projects from June to October. Select leaders may serve as “roving leaders,” supporting multiple teams, traveling to various project sites throughout the term, and leading or co-leading on rotating team assignments. This position is an AmeriCorps term of service and should not be viewed as a traditional job. Extended time away from home, often in remote locations, is to be expected. Duties include:

• Safety: Team Leaders will promote a ‘culture of safety’ and ensure that the crew is adequately equipped and prepared for projects and living conditions, including serving in inclement weather and serving and living in backcountry settings.  Leaders will follow and uphold all safety, and sanitation policies and procedures.
• Conservation Project Management: Team Leaders will conduct a pre-service site visit at each project site.  Leaders will be responsible for preparing and packing appropriate tools and gear for each project, developing an emergency response plan, communicating regularly with project partners, and effectively leading the team to meet project goals. 
• Documentation and Reporting: Teams must record service outcomes in a thorough and timely manner, including project reports, submission of timesheets, vehicle mileage logs, and other forms required by the MCC.  Leaders are expected to proactively communicate with field staff about crew dynamics and project progress.
• Crew Member Mentorship: MCC Team Leaders are teachers and mentors.  They train members in all aspects of trail construction and rehabilitation, and guide and support the team to ensure safety and wellbeing.  Leaders will participate in and facilitate job readiness training workshops and promote crew member skill development. 

SERVICE CONDITIONS: This position requires serving in adverse weather conditions, including heat and humidity, cold, rain, exposure to biting and stinging insects, hiking with tools and gear over difficult terrain, and sleeping in tents with limited access to cellular service and internet. This position is an AmeriCorps term of service and should not be viewed as a traditional job. Extended time away from home, often in remote locations, is to be expected.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Have the desire to learn, serve others, and make a difference
• Willingness and physical ability to serve on a variety of conservation projects, which will include using power and hand tools
• Heavy lifting, bending, and carrying up to 50 pounds
• Serving on trails with steep or uneven terrain
• Serving in extremes of heat or cold, as well as being exposed to biting and stinging insects
• Serving, eating, and camping outdoors in all weather conditions
• Ability to hike 3-12 miles per day in rugged terrain, often carrying heavy gear and tools
• Ability to perform tasks as part of a cooperative team
• Respectful and approachable attitude; ability to work well with others
• Responsible and reliable
• High level of comfort in the outdoors
• Excellent organizational and communication skills
• Interest in personal growth and in participating in ongoing training
• Ability to serve with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and experiences
• Willingness to follow health and safety protocols

MARGINAL FUNCTIONS:

• The ability to operate a MCC vehicle to transport members and gear to and from project sites

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Must be at least 21 years old at the start of the field season (mid-June)
• Must be a US Citizen or permanent resident
• Must agree to criminal history checks
• Previous experience with outdoor leadership, conservation project management, and/or conservation corps
• Commitment to MCC through the duration of the service term

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Driver’s license and clean driving record
• Previous trail construction experience
• Backcountry living experience
• Experience with GPS/GIS
• Experience with power tools and hand tools, including chainsaws and rigging equipment

BENEFITS:

• Living allowance of $580/week (less taxes)
• Team Leaders are 1200-hour AmeriCorps members and will receive an education award of $5,176.50 upon successful completion.
• AmeriCorps members may also be eligible for student loan forbearance and childcare reimbursement.
• Other benefits include a Maine State Park Pass, discounts on outdoor gear, training, certifications, and a wide range of networking opportunities.
• Other benefits include a Maine State Park Pass, discounts on outdoor gear, training, certifications, and a wide range of networking opportunities.

HOUSING: Housing will be provided during the training period.  Housing varies from rustic cabins to tent camping.  Team Leaders will move locations throughout training.  During the field season, field teams will camp at project sites and will return to an assigned basecamp or the MCC Office for off time.  Basecamps will vary from rustic cabins to tent sites.