2023 US NPS Natchez Trace Parkway Prescribed Fire Corps (PO-00731459)

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is partnering with NPS Mississippi River Zone Fire and Aviation Management to administer a fire crew. The crew will focus on prescribed fire and fuels work and be based at Natchez Trace Parkway with periodically travel to other park units in the region for extended periods of time. Three crew members will work under the supervision of a crew leader, serving with NPS fire staff participating in prescribed fires, mechanical fuels reduction, fire effects monitoring, educational outreach, preparation of burn units as well as pre-suppression and suppression readiness tasks. All can apply, veterans are encouraged to apply. 

Original season dates for this crew: Jan 9 – Apr 28, 2023. Currently, the SCA is seeking on team member to fill an open position ASAP.

For team members starting on the original season start date (January 9), SCA and NPS will provide your training in the following disciplines to qualify you for fire work during and after your service. Members starting after the original season start date may not be eligible for all trainings below.

  • Fire Training (S-130, S-190, L-180, ICS100)
  • Wildland Fire Chainsaw Training (S-212) – tentative
  • Medical Training/CPR
  • SCA Corps Member Training

Compensation Details:

  • $400/week living allowance (pre-tax)
  • A one-time $650 travel allowance 
  • Meals (during work days) and housing
  • Eligibility for an AmeriCorps education award ($1,718.25) – if member is starting on original January 9 start date
  • Eligibility for a Public Land Corps Certificate for Noncompetitive Hiring Status – if member is starting on original January 9 start date

All members are required to pass an arduous pack test to participate in the program. This includes walking 3 miles with a 45-pound weighted vest in under 45 minutes. Members that do not pass the pack test will be dismissed from the program. Members will also need to pass a medical screening, issued by the NPS.

In addition, prescribed burning is condition-dependent and members may be required to work long hours and/or weekends depending on direction from the partner. 

*For SCA's COVID-19 guidance, please refer to www.thesca.org/covid  

Position ID: PO-00731459

Expected Dates: January 9, 2023 - April 28, 2023

Training Provided: Training will be given for fire fighting, prescribed burning, and chainsaw use. Potential for training on manual transmission and use of tractor and bobcat-type equipment. Training opportunities will be given for below listed certifications.

Main Area of Focus: Natural Resources Mgmt

Further Details

AmeriCorps Eligible: Eligible

Driving Logistics: Recommended

Personal time

Housing or Stipend Provided?
A. Partner will provide suitable housing for the member

Indoor/Outdoor: Outside

Student Conservation Association