Conservation Crew Member – Spring 2023

Appalachian Conservation Corps:    Appalachian Conservation Corps (ACC) works to connect young people to critical conservation service work across Appalachia and neighboring communities in Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, Maryland, DC, and Pennsylvania. As a corps program, ACC partners with public land managers to identify, plan, and complete projects that improve public access, habitat quality, and economic development. ACC is a program of Conservation Legacy, a nationwide network of conservation service organizations. Our programs focus on service, place-based learning, life skills development, appreciation of diversity, civic responsibility, and career development. ACC also provides an opportunity for members to learn about the local environment and issues affecting it and introduces individuals to recreation and resource management careers. 

Job Overview

Position Summary: 

The Conservation Crew Member position is an entry-level role. Crew Members are supported on a variety of levels, by their Crew Leaders, Program Staff & Project Partners, and Conservation Legacy Staff. 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. 

Project Work: 

Projects take place across the Appalachian Region, including work with the US Forest Service, the National Park Service, and other land managers. During their time in the field, Crew Members camp overnight and 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 treatments, historic restoration, disaster relief, and much more. Most projects require hiking out to remote work sites for the day with tools, equipment, and day pack. 

Schedule: 

Typically, Crew Members 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. While in the field, Crew Members work 8-10 hours a day. The day starts with a stretch circle and safety meeting and includes two fifteen-minute breaks and a half hour break for lunch. 

Prior to their start date, selected Crew Members must begin their background check process and complete an online enrollment process which includes completing e-forms, uploading IDs, and enrolling with AmeriCorps. For those with limited access to online platforms, accommodations may be available and can be discussed during the interview process. 

Special Benefits

Benefits: 

• $600/week living stipend, paid bi-weekly  
• AmeriCorps Segal Education Award upon successful completion of service term 
• Possible student loan forbearance 
• Member Assistance Program – 3 free sessions of support with a counseling or work-life balance specialist 
• Uniform shirts, helmet, work gloves, eye protection, and other necessary safety equipment is provided 
• On-the-job training 
• Professional development opportunities (mentorship, resume support, alumni listserv, etc.) and exposure to natural resource career paths 

Minimum Requirements

General Qualifications: 

• Be between the ages of 18 and 30 (exception for Veterans up to age 35)  
• Have US Citizenship or Legal Permanent Residency status  
• Have a high school diploma or GED 
• Pass background checks
• Fully vaccinated for COVID-19 (Federal partner requirement)
• Must be eligible to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award
• No previous experience is required, but a general comfort and previous knowledge of working/living in an outdoor setting is helpful.