Here at MCC, we focus on the growth of our participants, positively impacting our climate and environment, and transferable job skills.  Our participants camp while working on physically demanding and essential natural resource and conservation projects on some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Northern Rockies and Plains.  If you are looking for something unique and want to make a positive impact on the environment, then this is the perfect opportunity for you! Learn about our different programs to see if MCC is the right fit for you! There are many benefits to a term of service! Learn how your time at MCC makes a positive impact on the planet. Learn how we will support you during your term of service. MCC values diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism. We affirm the dignity and value of all human beings. We celebrate the diverse backgrounds and identities of our corps members and staff. It is our priority to create a culture of safety, belonging, and validation for everyone, especially those facing marginalization. Learn more about equity at MCC.

Job Overview

GAIN PROFESSIONAL JOB SKILLS, CONTRIBUTE TO CLIMATE RESILIENCE, AND LAUNCH YOUR WILDLAND FIRE CAREER!

The Montana Conservation Corps is hiring Women’s Fuels and Fire Crew Leaders!  This crew offers an intentional and  supportive work environment  for anyone who identifies as a woman and/or femme. We welcome trans applicants who are comfortable in a femme-identifying space.  MCC’s Women’s Fuels and Fire Crews work in partnership with the National Park Service (NPS) with one crew working primarily in Yellowstone National Park and the other in Grand Teton National Park. This program focuses heavily on education and exposure, providing participants with the opportunity to shadow and work alongside our agency partners to gain skills and knowledge in natural resource management, specifically related to the field of wildland firefighting. 

Location: Bozeman, MT

Ages: 18-35

Program Dates: 02/27/2023 – 08/11/2023

Living Allowance: $1,120 biweekly before taxes are taken out

AmeriCorps Education Award: $3,447.50 upon completion of the program

Health Insurance: Provided at NO COST

Member Assistance Program: Free 24/7 access to confidential behavioral health counseling, financial assistance, medical/legal advocacy, and more!

Food Per Diem while on Projects

Access to Pro Deals!

Housing options may be available in specific regions; talk with a Program Manager to learn more!! 

Learn More About Adult Conservation Crews!

APPLY/FULL POSITION DESCRIPTION HERE!

MCC is committed to being diverse, welcoming, and inclusive. We are working to reduce barriers to participating in our programs. This program is available to all, without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity or expression, political affiliation, marital or parental status, genetic information, and military service. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply.  Learn more about Identity and Equity @ MCC!

Special Benefits

Participants will have the opportunity to receive extensive training and potential certifications in wildland firefighting, including a nationally recognized chainsaw certification (S212), basic wildland firefighting classes (S130, S190, L180, IS100, IS700), in addition to having an opportunity to receive a  wildland fire incident qualification “red” card.  Additionally, our partners will work to mentor participants, helping to support their growth and build a resume to apply for federal wildland fire jobs. Project work will vary, but will include habitat restoration and fuels reduction with a partial focus on chainsaw use, and a general emphasis on gaining knowledge of the professional pathways that exist within our Federal Land Management Agencies.

Should conditions allow, upon completion of your term of service with MCC it is the goal of the National Park Service to provide you with the opportunity to deploy on a fire assignment. Fire rolls depend on need and can start 2-20 days after your term of service ends in mid-August. Rolls vary in length depending on need from 14-30 days. If the need arises after your MCC season concludes, crews will communicate directly with NPS partners to join a fire role or any other alternative assignment as AD (administratively determined) hires.  You will NOT be on an active fire/prescribed burn during your term with Montana Conservation Corps.  

This is a great opportunity to get exposure to the world of wildland fire and the unique professional opportunities that exist beyond fighting on the front lines, and is an excellent stepping stone for future career opportunities.  If you are looking for something unique, love learning, and want to address urgent climate change issues, then this is the perfect opportunity for you! 

There will be 2 different crews for the 2023 season; the programs are all similar, but project work and season can vary between crews:

• National Park Service (NPS), Grand Teton National Park
• National Park Service (NPS), Yellowstone National Park

Participants must pass medical screening and must meet the Federal Wildland Firefighter Medical Standards for arduous duty wildland firefighting.

Benefits:

• Education Award Use for student loans, certifications, work trade programs, education expenses, and more
• Forbearance for certain student loans while serving with AmeriCorps.
• FREE Health Insurance* (members serving over 4 months)
• Member Assistance Program (MAP) FREE access to 24/7 behavioral health resources. Also includes financial planning, legal assistance, life coaching, and more! 
• Living Allowance
• AmeriCorps Child Care Benefits
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Meals provided while on projects
• Access to Pro Deals
• We provide uniform work shirts and transportation to work sites.
• Tools and safety gear are covered. Things like hard hats, work gloves, ear protection, safety glasses and group camping gear. We have some items to loan if needed
• Service Awards available to help purchase gear or travel to Montana.

Certifications (Depending on Position and Crew Type):

• First Aid & CPR
• Defensive Driving 
• Chainsaw Certification
• Crosscut Certification 

Training and Opportunities (Depending on Position and Crew Type):

• Training on Resume Building, Interviewing, and Federal Hiring
• Hand & Power Tool Use (including chainsaw and crosscut saw)
• Backcountry Travel & Navigation
• Trail Maintenance & Construction
• Leave No Trace
• Habitat Management & Improvement
• Learn about natural resource management
• Leadership, communication, and teamwork competencies
• Develop life skills, work skills, and a strong service ethic
• Connect with project partners: federal, state, and non-profits for career opportunities
• Join our network of alumni in natural resource careers all over the country
• Work in beautiful, wild, and protected places.
• Make lasting changes to the environment, climate, and our communities.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications:

• High school degree, GED, or willingness to work towards obtaining a GED
• Ages 18-35
• US Citizen, National or lawful permanent resident
• Ability to pass a National Service Criminal History Check
• Ability to eventually hike 3-20 miles per day in terrain that can be steep, rocky or uneven, often wearing a 45lb backpack while carrying tools and sometimes backpacking with full packs of 60 – 70lbs
• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds repeatedly and use hand and power tools
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Ability to obtain Wilderness Advanced First Aid/CPR training. (Training is reimbursable to allotted amount/ MCC provides training)
• Demonstrates desire to serve the community and the environment
• Embraces willingness to work long, hard hours in all weather conditions; ability to be away on overnight trips for up to 10 days at a time
• Commitment to completing term; available for duration of entire term of service

Strongly Preferred Qualifications:

• Valid driver’s license, ability to pass a Motor Vehicle Records check
• 21 years old on the start date of the program