The Youth Conservation Corps Leader will lead a seasonal crew of four young adults, ages 16-18, participating in the Youth Conservation Corps. The Youth Conservation Corps is a partnership of The Nature Conservancy and the US Fish & Wildlife Service designed to: (1) accomplish needed conservation work on conservation lands; (2) provide gainful employment for young adults from all social, economic, ethnic, and racial classifications; and (3) develop an understanding and appreciation of the Kankakee Sands region’s natural environment and heritage in the participating young adults. This is a full-time, short-term position starting on May 21, 2018 and concluding on August 10, 2018, with a pay rate of $16.67 per hour.
The Youth Conservation Corps Leader will develop a work plan with staff and local partners and then lead the 4-person Corps for 8 weeks in activities including control of invasive species, seed collection, trash cleanup, biological inventories, installation of erosion control materials, community projects, and educational opportunities. The Leader will spend the initial two weeks working with partners and completing necessary training (e.g., TNC Youth Safety, First Aid, etc.) to ensure all is in order before the arrival of the crew.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND SCOPE
- Leads the 4-person Youth Conservation Corps
- Will interact with visitors, partners, and local community
- Will develop work plans with partners, but will function without direct, daily supervision. Reports to Kankakee Sands Project Manager.
- May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations for long periods of time in isolated settings, on difficult and hazardous terrain and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Requires considerable physical exertion and/or muscular strain.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience operating various types of equipment in a safe and efficient manner (e.g. hand tools, ATV or OHV, two-way radio, or similar equipment)
- Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, etc.)
- Must be 21 years of age by start date, able to pass background check and obtain youth safety training certification
- Driver’s license and good driving record
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated
- Familiarity with the Kankakee sands project area, including Pembroke Township and Village of Hopkins Park
- Experience supervising young adults
- Course work in ecology or experience with natural areas restoration
- Ability to follow instructions from colleagues
- Ability to work in a team environment
The Nature Conservancy offers competitive compensation, 401k or savings-plan matching for eligible employees, excellent benefits, flexible work policies and a collaborative work environment. We also provide professional development opportunities and promote from within. As a result, you will find a culture that supports and inspires conservation achievement and personal development, both within the workplace and beyond.