1. GENERAL DESCRIPTION: Based in Santa Cruz, California. As a member of American Conservation Experience crews, conservation volunteers complete 8 to 12 weeks assisting crew supervisors and assistant supervisors in the implementation of environmental conservation and restoration projects utilizing teams of young adult corps members. Work projects are almost exclusively outdoors, involve strenuous physical labor in all weather conditions and climates, and may involve spike camping for several weeks at a time in remote wilderness locations. The work may involve working for other ACE offices/locations for temporary periods.
2. DESIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and ABILITIES: Professional Development Members must possess the following: Knowledge of environmental conservation skills, basic environmental education, and outdoor living/camping skills. Ability to perform a wide variety of heavy manual labor for extended periods of time, and often under adverse weather conditions and in various climates. Ability to adapt to surrounding work environment and conditions that can change frequently. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with corps members, Team Leader, Assistant Team Leader, Crew Supervisor, partner agency staff, and the general public. Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions. Ability to understand and follow ACE systems and processes including and most importantly safety instruction. 3. TYPICAL DUTIES: Participating in outdoor skills training activities. Participating on a work crew performing conservation work projects, including: Restoring forest health and reducing wildfire risk through tree thinning using powered equipment; constructing and maintaining trails; restoring wildlife habitats; maintaining public parks, campgrounds, and recreation areas; planting trees, conducting native plant revegetation, and eradicating exotic plant species; conducting ecological testing and monitoring; surveying, mapping and monitoring using GPS technology; Implement trail maintenance, trail construction, Assisting the crew supervisor in logistical details such as tools, equipment, field communication, and work project completion. Maintaining and repairing hand and power tools and other equipment as necessary. Hiking, backpacking, camping and cooking outdoors while at front country and wilderness spike camps. 4. OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Must maintain a safe, positive, and constructive work environment. Must be flexible and possess a high work ethic Must maintain timely, effective communication with supervisors and crew. Must help enforce the use of appropriate safety procedures in all tasks. Must maintain optimal physical health, including a drug-free lifestyle. Persons convicted of a felony are not eligible for appointment. 5. QUALIFICATIONS: High School Diploma or Equivalent US Citizen or Permanent Legal Resident Demonstrated interest in service and volunteering. 6. BENEFITS: Housing provided on off days in Santa Cruz, tents/camp sites provided on project days Food provided on project days Living stipends may be available for qualified applicants To Apply: Send a cover letter and resume to [email protected] and [email protected] with "ACE: Conservation Crew Volunteer- ECOLOG referred" in the subject line.
