Overview
UCC field crews are assigned to a variety of conservation projects throughout Utah and the Intermountain West. Crew Members work and live in the outdoors as part of a field crew in service to public lands and the communities that surround them. Members are primarily responsible for being a supporting member of their crew, upholding and abiding by UCC policies & procedures, and conducting themselves in a safe and productive manner. All Crew Members are trained in safe and proper tool use, project techniques, and outdoor living. Training topics may include chainsaw and hand tool use, project techniques, and first aid. This position involves frequent travel, camping, irregular hours, and a varying weekly schedule.
Field projects may be backcountry (hiking into the project site, camping away from a vehicle) or front country (such as driving to the project site daily, camping at the vehicle, or non-camping lodging). Projects may be urban (located in a city or town) or rural (located in national parks, forests, etc. with limited access to facilities and resources). Weather is variable, and work and campsites can range from 2,000-13,000 feet in elevation.
Projects may include (but are not limited to):
• Trail construction and maintenance
• Invasive species management, including herbicide application and chainsaw operation
• Habitat restoration
• Fence installation/repair
• Land management inventory and mapping
• Community service
• Recreation facilities maintenance and construction
• Recreation signage repair
• National disaster response efforts
Crews generally work a 9-day or 4-day, 10-hour/day (some days may be up to 12 hours) ‘hitch’ schedule, while camping in front and backcountry settings. Typically, crews will have 3-5 days off between hitches. Crews should expect schedules and project work to vary.
Qualifications:
• Ability to live outdoors and work on a variety of conservation projects, which may include 12-hour days using chainsaws, hand tools, applying herbicide, moving through uneven terrain, etc. in a variety of environmental conditions.
• Willing and able to complete all aspects of the program including conservation projects, training, and National Service as they are assigned.
• Commitment to personal and professional growth.
Required Skills:
• Able to lift up to 30 lbs. repeatedly and use hand tools
• At least 18 years of age
• Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or a lawful permanent resident alien of the United States
• Eligible to enroll in an AmeriCorps term of service
• Must undergo and pass a criminal history check
• Have a high school diploma or GED or work towards obtaining one while in the program
Preferred Skills:
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 motivate self and others
• Communicate effectively
• Can adapt to changing circumstances
• Are passionate about conservation work
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.
