Position Description:

Land Conservation Crew Members (called Corpsmembers) serve on environmental stewardship projects throughout the 6-county region of Southeastern Colorado, including Baca, Bent, Crowley, Kiowa, Otero, and Prowers counties. Corpsmembers will be enrolled in AmeriCorps—a national community service program. No experience is required! We will provide you with hands-on training related to all projects.

Compensation and Benefits

• Biweekly Stipend – Earn a living stipend of $1,120 before taxes paid every 2 weeks.
  • AmeriCorps Education Award – Earn a scholarship of $1,565.08 upon successful completion of 300 hours of service. This award can be used to pay future tuition, pay back qualifying student loans or go on an expedition through a wilderness school! Corpsmembers have 7 years to use the award.
  • Student Loan Forbearance – Corpsmembers can apply to put their qualified federal student loans on hold during their term through the National Service Trust.
• Counseling – Corpsmembers receive up to 4 free mental health counseling sessions per year.
• Networking – Corpsmembers have opportunities to network with federal, state and local natural resources professionals and access to a vast alumni network!
• Training – All Corpsmembers will receive First Aid/CPR training. Depending on crew assignments, Corpsmembers will receive training in one or more stewardship skillsets, including S-212 Wildland Fire Chainsaws (required for sawyers), trail building and maintenance, habitat restoration, park development, and historic preservation
• Supportive Services – connection to supportive services resources, such as transportation, as necessary

Timeline:

This is a temporary position from Sept 14, 2026-November 13, 2026

• Occasional camping (known as hitches) may be required (supplies and equipment provided).
• Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., and every other Friday 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Corpsmembers will engage in:

• Service on Land Conservation Projects: physically demanding conservation projects on public lands throughout Southeastern Colorado. Projects may include trail construction and maintenance, fencing, campground improvements, noxious weed eradication, wildlife habitat improvements and public land maintenance and clean up.
• Leadership and Service in the Community: leadership development activities and additional service-learning projects in the community
• Career Exploration and Career Readiness Training: activities and workshops, such as resume development, networking, and interview skills—preparing for next steps
• General Logistics: Provide support including, but not limited to building, vehicle and tool maintenance. Corpsmembers may be responsible for additional chores and educational activities.

MHYC is committed to hiring candidates with unique backgrounds and perspectives. If you are interested in this position but are concerned that you do not meet all of the requirements or possess all of the necessary skills,   or that prior convictions or your background might disqualify you, we highly encourage you to submit an application anyway.

Qualifications:

• Must be physically fit, able to lift 50 lbs., spend 8-10 hours a day in all weather conditions (e.g., sun, heat, wind, rain, etc.) and hike up to 7 miles with a daypack.
• Able to be on time and maintain consistent attendance throughout term of service. Must commit to complete the program.

Requirements:

• Between the ages of 18-24.
• High school or GED/HSE graduate or still enrolled.
• Must be eligible for enrollment in AmeriCorps as a US Citizen, National or Lawful Permanent Resident. Documentation will be required on the first day. Must bring identification documents necessary to complete the I-9 and other forms on your first day.
• Pre-service National Service Criminal History Check required.
• Corpsmembers must not engage in any prohibited activities as listed in the AmeriCorps Member Service Agreement.
• This position reports to Program Coordinator: Eastern Plains
• Primary service location: 52. N Bent Ave, Las Animas CO. Corpsmembers will occasionally travel to Colorado Springs for training and MHYC all-Corps activities. Transportation is provided.

Visit our website at www.milehighyouthcorps.org and click “Apply Now”.

Questions? Email tarac@mhyc.net  or call or text 719-877-2732