Overview
Crew Leaders (CLs) will lead 5–10 person crews on various conservation-related projects. CLs are responsible for facilitating a positive crew member experience by setting an example of enthusiasm throughout work and camp life. They provide leadership, mentorship, support, and training for their crew. They are expected to uphold and follow UCC’s values, ensure policies and procedures are followed, communicate with project partners, and record and report weekly project outcome data and other documentation.
We seek team members who:
• Are creative problem solvers
• Speak and act professionally, with a high level of maturity when faced with uncertainty and discomfort
• Have the ability to lead and to motivate self and others
• Communicate effectively
• Can adapt to changing circumstances
• Are passionate about conservation work
• Desire to provide mentorship for emerging conservation leaders
The CL term of service is approximately 9 months, spanning 3 field seasons (Spring, Summer, and Fall). This position involves frequent travel, camping, irregular hours, and a varying weekly schedule.
UCC operates three 12-week field seasons throughout the year. The CL begins their term of service in the spring with intensive training in conservation, leadership, outdoor living, and Wilderness First Responder. The remainder of the Spring season is dedicated to development through experience, training, and peer-led project work. During this time, CLs become familiar with their responsibilities, learn proper tool use and techniques, and participate in conservation projects under the leadership of Field Logistics Technicians (FLTs) and other field staff.
Upon demonstration of essential competencies, CLs will receive an increase in their living stipend for the Summer and Fall seasons when they assume responsibility for leadership of their crew. CLs may be assigned to co-leadership duties, depending on project needs.
Crews serve on projects in a variety of locations.
Project work may include (but is not limited to):
• Trail construction and maintenance
• Invasive species management, including herbicide application
• Habitat restoration
• Fence installation and repair
• Land management inventory and mapping
• National disaster response efforts
• Community service
• Recreation and facilities maintenance and construction
• Recreation signage repair
The schedules for crews in the field will change from project to project. Crews generally serve 10 hours a day (some days may be up to 12 hours including travel) on a 4-9 day “hitch” while camping in front and backcountry settings. Typically, crews will have 3-5 days off between hitches.
Qualifications:
• U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident
• Have a high school diploma or GED
• Eligible to enroll in an AmeriCorps term of service
• Pass a National Service Criminal History Check
Required Skills:
• Experience with group communication, conflict management & resolution
• Maturity & professionalism in an environment with irregular and changing schedules
• Self-motivated with a commitment to personal and professional growth
• Alignment to UCC’s mission and values of safety, service, community, inclusivity, positivity, and commitment
• 3 months leadership or supervisory experience in a team or crew-based setting
• Demonstrated outdoor/camping skills
Preferred Skills:
• Trail maintenance and construction experience
• Chainsaw training and experience
• Previous experience in conservation corps, public lands management, or work in similar fields
• Ability to communicate professionally and effectively with administrators, supervisors, and peers
• Experience working with and demonstrating leadership in diverse communities
About Utah Conservation Corps
The Utah Conservation Corps (UCC) is an AmeriCorps program dedicated to developing the conservation leaders of tomorrow. We’re a non-residential AmeriCorps program composed of AmeriCorps members, staff, and partners dedicated to service to our community, environment, and regions requiring disaster response efforts. Additionally, as an organization, we seek to provide a more welcoming environment for people of all backgrounds and experience levels to ensure a healthy, vibrant, innovative, and sustainable corps. Our goals are to encourage and support more diverse populations serving in an inclusive environment within the UCC and to recognize where we fall short and address our shortcomings.
