2023 SCA-USFS Region 8 Prescribed Fire Corps Program (PO-00735977)

Program Dates: 1/22/24 – 5/10/24

What You’ll Be Doing 
The 2024 USFS Region 8 Prescribed Fire Corps is a dynamic and exciting opportunity for those passionate about wildland firefighting. Four crew members will work under a crew leader to assist with prescribed burns alongside the U.S. Forest Service. When conditions are not ideal for burning, members will assist the partner with other projects including vegetation removal, fire line preparation, equipment maintenance, and other work duties. In addition, members will have opportunities for networking and professional development.   

• Prescribed burning is condition-dependent and members may be required to work long hours and/or weekends depending on direction from the partner. Members will not work more than 80 hours over a two week period. 
• Throughout the season, the crew may have opportunities to respond to active fires. While deployed on a live fire with the federal fire teams, team members' service with SCA will be paused. Members should expect to work long (10+ hour) days while on fire assignments.  
• Crew members will live and work together for the duration of the season. SCA emphasizes the importance of community building and growth in interpersonal skills throughout the program. The crew may camp while out on fire assignment and will be provided shared housing throughout the season. 

Training  
This team will go through Fire Academy Training alongside other USFS teams. Certifications and Topics include: 

• Fire Training (Red Card, S-130, S-190) 
• Basic First Aid and CPR Certification 
• Federal Chainsaw Training (S-212) 
• Risk Management 
• Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion 

• Program Administration 

Program best practices, tool usage, safety, and job hazard assessments will be part of training and daily briefings. All members will learn to work in new environments, with new people, all while learning new field skills. Corps Members should expect to meet regularly, reflect on their service, and contribute to the team-building process. Being open to new experiences is a huge advantage! 

Location and Transportation 
Positions will be located at either Kisatchie or Davy Crockett National Forest in USFS Region 8. An SCA vehicle will be provided for project work and SCA approved off time travel.  A personal vehicle can be brought to the program and will improve access to local amenities and recreation opportunities on days off.  If you bring a personal vehicle, you will be responsible for finding parking, and do not expect to be able to access it while you are in the field.   
 
Housing 
Corps Members will be provided shared housing with the Crew. Housing may consist of houses, condos or apartments with shared bedrooms and common living spaces.   

Position Requirements 

• Must be 18+ years old  
• Authorization to work in the United States; U.S. Citizen, Resident Alien, Valid Work Permit/Visa covering entire dates of employment. 
• Must be able to pass SCA’s background check 
• Must be able to pass the Work Capacity Test at the arduous level (a 3-mile walk with 45lb weight vest that must be completed in 45 minutes or less). Members that do not pass the pack test will not be able to continue with this program. 
• Ability to work variable hours (long days and/or weekends), at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, in varying weather conditions, and under physically demanding circumstances.
• Ability to perform manual, physical labor for up to 10 hours per day, exposed to the elements and lifting and/or moving 40 pounds or more.
• All team members must be able to undergo an in-person physical before December 1, 2023.  

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience working in diverse situations and various outdoor environments 
• Experience serving with others on a team, and collaborate with natural resource professionals and volunteers 
• Eligible to be an SCA Driver; 21+ years old, must possess a valid driver's license, have a minimum of 3 years of state-authorized driving experience, and be able to pass a comprehensive motor vehicle record check 

Benefits 

• First Aid/CPR certification 
• Wildland Firefighter trainings (Red Card, S-130, S-190, L-180)
• Networking with conservation professionals in the USFS and SCA 
• Opportunity to support and learn about Wildland Fire Management  
• Participate in professional development and skill building as a team
• SCA gear package

Application  
The application deadline is November 3, 2023. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and will continue to be reviewed after 11/3/23 if positions are available. Interviews will consist of conversations over the phone and Microsoft Teams. Upon request, reasonable accommodation will be provided to applicants during the selection process and to members during service. Email [email protected] if you need to make an accommodation request for the application process or interviews.   

AP/EEO Statement  
SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members. It is firmly committed to maintaining a work atmosphere in which people of diverse backgrounds and lifestyles may grow personally and professionally. For more information about SCA, visit us at www.thesca.org. 

COVID-19 
Member health and safety are a priority for this program. As long as COVID-19 is a threat, members are expected to do their part to keep their team safe, this includes being mindful of current regulations, regular cleaning and disinfection of tools and equipment, and regular health check-ins with staff. Visit the following website for more information regarding SCA's COVID-19 Management Policies: www.thesca.org/covid. 
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