PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Trail Conference Conservation Corps (TCCC) provides opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to become leaders in environmental conservation. Industry experts train our AmeriCorps crews in sustainable trail building, invasive species management, public outreach, volunteer engagement, and outdoor leadership to provide vital resources to the parks you enjoy. Corps Members will receive a living stipend for their service and are eligible for education awards through our partnership with AmeriCorps.

POSITION SUMMARY

The TCCC Invasives Strike Force (ISF) crew mitigates ecological damage by employing the most effective techniques to stop invasive species from spreading in southern NY. Crew members spend most of their time managing invasive plants and collecting data in the field and will also gain office experience processing data and writing reports. Invasives management will include both manual and chemical methods and members will become NY Pesticide Apprentices. The ISF crew implements the regional strategy of the Lower Hudson Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management by surveying areas for new invaders to the region and responding quickly to priority species using best management practices. Members work with a wide range of Project Partners at multiple sites throughout southern NY and will be supported by the Terrestrial Invasive Species Project Manager and the LH PRISM Coordinator.

LOCATION

Lower Hudson Valley Region of New York

TERM OF SERVICE

(There are multiple options for service, but priority will be given to those who can serve 900 hours)

• Three-Quarter Time (3QT): Minimum of 1,2000-hours service term, April 5th through November 17th 
• Half-Time (HT): Minimum of 900-hours service term, May 11th through October 27th
• Reduced Half Time (RHT): Minimum of 675-hours service term, May 24th through September 28th
• Quarter Time (QT): Minimum of 450-hours service term; May 24th through August 18th

Work week is Wednesday through Sunday. Weekend work is required. Members must take a 1/2-hour lunch which does not count toward service hours. This outdoor position includes a variety of weather conditions. Members are required to wear a provided uniform.

BENEFITS AND COMPENSATION

(The Trail Conference greatly values the Corps Members’ experience, in parentheses are approximate values of the training and service that will be provided)

• Free rustic, lakeside housing within Harriman State Park provided from May 9th-October 27th; Some work will be done outside of the above timeframe ($909 per month)
• Bi-weekly pre-tax living allowance of:
• 3QT: $937.50, or $15,000 total
• HT: $750, or $9,000 total (returning members $833.33; $10,000 total)
• RHT: $750, or $6750 total
• QT: $750, or $4,500 total
• Eligible for an AmeriCorps education award upon successful completion of the term totaling:
• 3QT: $4,546.50
• HT: $3,247.50
• RHT: $2,474.27
• QT: $1,718.25
• Certification in Wilderness First Aid/CPR/AED ($285), Leave No Trace (Two Day Trainer Course $100), and NY Pesticides (Apprentice Certification $1,000)  
• Networking and career development opportunities with environmental professionals including one-on-one resume workshops ($250)
• Training and experience in leadership, teaching, working with volunteers, public outreach, and teamwork
• Opportunity for qualified student loan deferment and interest repayment
• Eligible for SNAP benefits ($245.88 per month)
• Travel stipend ($46 bi-weekly)
• Total Approximate Value of Stipend, Education Award, and Services:
• 3QT: $28,884.50
• HT: $20,909.75 (returning members $21,909.75)
• RHT: $13,556.77
• QT: $10,366.88

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct surveys and manual and chemical invasives management in natural areas
• Keep accurate and detailed records of activities by collecting and processing data and writing reports
• Prepare maps utilizing ArcPro, ArcOnline, and GPS data collected in the field via the Field Maps app
• Educate the public by leading invasive species removal volunteer workdays
• Learn and follow applicable techniques, rules, and regulations for pesticide application
• Members may not engage in any Prohibited Activities as outlined in the Member Service Agreement

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Capacity to conduct physically strenuous field work daily, hiking up to 4 miles carrying up to 30 lbs of equipment over rugged terrain and strenuous environmental conditions
• Experience or interest in plant identification and management
• A valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle for transportation to field sites