This position requires that you become enrolled in AmeriCorps. If you are selected for this program, please be sure to accept AmeriCorps during the SCA offer process. No travel allowance will be offered for this position even if it is stated on your confirmation of acceptance. Due to Covid-19, events and trainings are subject to change in response to an increase in the number of cases in upstate New York. Such changes include but are not limited to: trainings being held remotely, elimination of large-scale gatherings, and a reduction of education programs.
New York’s Central Region is seeking an enthusiastic FORCES Program Steward for the 2024 season. Apply to be a SCA New York State Parks Corps member today!
About the NYS Parks Corps: Service activities range from providing environmental education and interpretation, to trail restoration, wildlife management, and organizing volunteer events. All 21 Parks Corps members will gather regularly in Central NY for SCA trainings and other professional development opportunities as they arise. (**See Covid caveat above for potential exceptions to 2024 events) Members share housing in groups of 1-4 members per location. NYS Parks Corps members serve under the direction of regional Parks staff to assist in accomplishing the mission of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation; to provide safe and enjoyable recreational and interpretive opportunities for all New York State residents and visitors and to be responsible stewards of our valuable natural, historic, and cultural resources.
This position is located in New York’s Central Region, with a focus on the FORCES program. The partner will provide accommodations in Green Lakes State Park which will be shared with other SCA New York State Parks Corps members.
Purpose of the Position: Friends of Recreation, Conservation and Environmental Stewardship (FORCES) creates opportunities for a wide range of mutually beneficial partnerships that enhance State Parks while simultaneously providing collegiate students real world experiences and the opportunity to further their academic programs, gain valuable resume experience, and develop personal connections to New York State Parks.
Community Needs that the Position Serves: Supports the interest of college students in environmental conservation, recreation and historic preservation activities and careers.
Values and Standards of the Program/Position:
SCA’s mission is to build the next generation of conservation leaders and inspire lifelong stewardship of the environment and communities by engaging young people in hands-on service to the land.
The Mission of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is to provide safe and enjoyable recreation and interpretive opportunities for all New York State residents and visitors and to be responsible stewards of our valuable natural, historic and cultural resources.
AmeriCorps Member Duties and Responsibilities:
- Assist with the development, recording and implementation of park projects: meet with park managers and staff to discuss potential park projects, collaborate with agency partners, research park-side protocol and feasibility for implementation of projects, and provide supervision, assistance, and leadership for projects.
- Develop and update FORCES promotional materials: promote and market the FORCES program and opportunities via multiple media.
- Assist with the development of the infrastructure for the FORCES Program: participate and contribute to FORCES team meetings, evaluate current program protocols, evaluate student experiences, identify tasks necessary to meet program goals.
- Coordinate I Love My Park Day events.
- Coordinate invasive species removal.
- NY State fair support.
How the AmeriCorps Member’s Role Aligns with the Organization:
This AmeriCorps role directly supports our Agency’s mission by offering the safe and enjoyable recreational and interpretive opportunities, as well as taking an active stewardship role towards our natural, historic, and cultural resources.
Performance Goals for the AmeriCorps Member:
Goal 1: Assist with the development and implementation of stewardship and park improvement projects with FORCES institutional partners and student interns (Stewards) and assist with the recruitment of FORCES Stewards and their individual program plans.
Goal 2: Engage youth, park patrons and community partners through FORCES.
Candidate Qualifications:
- Valid driver license.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Two years of college or other post-secondary school experience in a relevant field.
Skills, Knowledge, and Training:
Applicants should possess excellent computing skills, verbal and written skills, and be able to think critically to assess the varying needs of our program. Applicants should have field experience in biological/environmental sciences, natural resource or recreation management, or a related field. Ability to lead volunteers. Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office, Publisher, PowerPoint, and Excel. Plant ID, natural history skills, and knowledge of invasives species are required, and GIS is preferred. Basic CPR and First Aid skills are preferred.
Benefits
Amount of the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award being offered for successful completion of the member’s term of service: $6,495
Amount of living allowance member will receive: $350/week living allowance
Healthcare coverage (if applicable): Eligible for free health insurance
Childcare coverage (if applicable): Eligible for childcare assistance through AmeriCorps
Student loan forbearance and interest payments, (if the member qualifies): Eligible for Federal Student Loan forbearance and interest payment deferment through AmeriCorps for qualifying student loans.
Training Opportunities: All SCA NYS Parks Corps members receive Wilderness First Aid, CPR, Leave No Trace, Mental Health First Aid, and professional development. Environmental Education Stewards receive Certified Interpretive Guide training while Conservation Stewards receive Game of Logging 1 & 2. Optional trainings include NYSOEA, the American Canoe Association Quick Start Your Canoe Training, and other opportunities that arise through the SCA and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
Position ID: PO-00736008
Expected Dates: January 22, 2024 - November 18, 2024
Location:
Lorenzo State Historic Site
17 Rippleton Rd
Cazenovia, NY 13035
US
Handicap Accessible?: No
Main Area of Focus: Education and Interpretation
Further Details
AmeriCorps Eligible: Eligible
Driving Logistics: Recommended
A personal vehicle is required to access amenities such as grocery store, libraries, etc. as well as travel to NYS Parks Corps trainings and events.
Housing or Stipend Provided?
A. Partner will provide suitable housing for the member
This position is located in New York’s Central Region, with a focus on the FORCES program. The partner will provide accommodations in Green Lakes State Park which will be shared with other SCA New York State Parks Corps members.
Indoor/Outdoor: Combination
US Citizenship: Yes