Overview
Summer Youth Corps (SYC) is a residential summer workforce development program for youth, ages 15-18, led by AmeriCorps members, ages 19-30. SYC members connect to the natural environment while they live, work, and recreate together for six weeks in small groups called crews. Individuals gain natural resource fieldwork experience and develop workforce readiness skills (e.g. leadership) while completing conservation and community improvement projects throughout Minnesota and neighboring states. SYC also has a long history of running crews of individuals who use American Sign Language (ASL) as their primary form of communication. Although ASL proficiency is not required for all positions prior to program start, all participants are expected to engage in learning opportunities to connect with youth and peers across language barriers.
Position Summary:
All Field Coordinators will work collaboratively with one another, under the supervision of the Program Manager, to provide comprehensive support to crews throughout the summer season. Field Coordinators will complete a one-week intensive training, gaining the skills and resources necessary to facilitate trainings and lead participants through the field work and camp life aspects of their roles.
Field Coordinators will spend their summer living outdoors, camping and traveling to various parks across Minnesota and the surrounding states. Each Field Coordinator will be the direct supervisor of 4-6 AmeriCorps Crew Leaders (two crews) and will check-in weekly to listen, advise, and provide support for the overall success of the crew. This includes but is not limited to working alongside the crew to complete project tasks, serving as a mediator in conflict resolution, and providing advice and feedback to support the growth of members & leaders. When not visiting and supporting youth crews, Field Coordinators will collaborate with the Program Manager to complete various projects and tasks for continuous program development. This season there will be three Field Coordinators, each with a specific focus area: Operations, Education, and American Sign Language Interpreter
The Field Coordinator focused on operations will primarily handle the distribution, collection, and maintenance of all tools and equipment used throughout the program. The Operations Coordinator will also be responsible for planning and coordinating meals during training and supporting crew leaders through the food planning/ordering process. The ideal candidate will have excellent organization skills as well as experience with managing inventory and food orders for larger groups.
About Conservation Corps Minnesota & Iowa
Conservation Corps Minnesota & Iowa (CCMI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and AmeriCorps grantee that engages hundreds of youth and young adults each year in programs and initiatives that improve access to outdoor recreation, restore natural habitat, protect waterways, and respond to community needs and natural disasters. Our mission is to engage youth and young adults in meaningful service, leadership development, and environmental stewardship. Our vision is a world in which everyone has equitable access to nature, is equipped to succeed in career and life, and is empowered to make a difference in conserving natural resources. Learn more at conservationcorps.org.
