Are you seeking the chance to learn hand-on conservation skills and give back to the outdoors? The SCA Massachusetts Conservation Corps (MACC) is looking for candidates to join our existing Corps as a 15-week member. The MACC is an AmeriCorps program focused on leadership development, completing critical conservation service projects, and building a sense of community. If you’ve ever wanted to learn the hard and soft skills of being a conservation leader, come join this community of like-minded, service oriented individuals and help us tackle some of Massachusetts most pressing conservation issues.
The SCA Massachusetts Conservation Corps is a partnership between SCA, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), AmeriCorps, and The Massachusetts Service Alliance.
AmeriCorps Eligibility Requirements:
- US Citizen, National, Lawful Permanent Resident, and persons legally residing in a state
- Must be able to pass a national service criminal history check
- Must be 18 years or older
Program Description
This position is to join the Massachusetts Conservation Corps as a 15-week trail crew member. The position will run July 11th – October 20th, 2023. The program is located in Western Massachusetts, with project sites located throughout Massachusetts. Training and projects aim to address conservation needs on Public Lands in Massachusetts. This position is primarily hands-on and projects can be physically demanding. Before applying, applicants are encouraged to reflect on the concept of Service. This is an AmeriCorps position – not a typical job – and requires a commitment to not only serving in public lands but also committing to the community experience of residential living. Members of the Massachusetts Conservation Corps should expect to meet regularly, reflect on their service, and contribute to the community-building process.
Program Time breakdown:
|
Orientation |
5% |
|
Conservation Work Skills |
5% |
|
Conservation Service |
85% |
|
Other Service/Trainings |
5% |
Training Season: The position will begin the program with 2 weeks of training together. Training will include: Orientation, Conservation Trail Skills, Mental Health First Aid, Leadership development, and Non-Violent Communication.
Field Season: Hitches will typically be 10 days in length, but could vary depending on the location and project needs. During hitches, crews will be based out of front country tent camps in close proximity to the project site. Crews will complete a variety of projects throughout the state, ranging from the Berkshires to the Cape. Projects may include, but not limited to: new trail construction, native or dimensional bridges, rock steps/walls, invasive species management, resource monitoring, sign installation and preservation of historical structures.
Field-life is often rugged, and while on hitch, members should expect to live with limited access to electricity, cell phone reception and sometimes showers. Additionally, while on hitch, this program is alcohol and substance free.
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. Members are expected to fully comply with the SCA Covid-19 Management Plan.
Program Benefits
- $400 bi-weekly living allowance, before taxes
- $1,824.07 Segal Education Award at the end of completed service term
- SNAP eligibility up to $250 per month plus various discounts available to EBT card holders
- Housing and Utilities for duration of program with onsite laundry
- Childcare assistance available
- The opportunity to serve in State Parks & Forest throughout Massachusetts
- Networking opportunities with conservation professionals with state parks, forests, and nonprofits across Massachusetts.
Training Opportunities:
- SCA Conservation Work Skills
- Nonviolent Communication Training
- Mental Health First Aid Training
- Leadership, resume building, and other professional development opportunities
Essential Functions and Position Requirements:
- Interest and investment in leadership development and teamwork
- Interest in conservation skills that increase access to public spaces
- Willing to complete some project paperwork including project reports, output logs, and tool inventory
- Willingness to lead a crew on a 10 day trail project, coordinating all project logistics and partner communication.
- Must be willing to learn how to use hand tools and power tools to complete projects
- Ability to lift 50 lbs. & walk/hike 2 miles on rugged terrain
- Must be able to serve in diverse situations and various outdoor environments
- Willingness to camp outdoors for 9 consecutive nights for all projects
- Willingness to take part in community chores (i.e. cooking for crew in the field)
- All participants must commit to following all program and state mandated Covid-19 safety guidelines. This may include, but is not limited to, wearing a mask for all service and group activities, taking extra time to sanitize tools and equipment, and notifying supervisors when a member is not feeling well.
- Commitment to living and working within an intensive crew environment;
- Commitment to service in working conditions that will include: extreme heat, extreme cold, high winds, and precipitation.
Marginal Functions and optional service activities:
- Virtual service as make-up hours (i.e. creating land acknowledgements or project site research)
- Trail clean up and volunteer days
Potential candidates must be able to fulfill the above requirements in order to be considered for this position. In addition, it is recommended that applicants have a strong interest in service, conservation and community building. No previous conservation experience is required to be considered!
Staff and Program Partners will make every effort to create an inclusive and equitable program experience for all corps members.
Upon request, reasonable accommodations will be provided to applicants during the selection process and to members during service. Email Program Director [email protected] if you need to make an accommodation request for the application process or interviews.
SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members. The organization and this program are firmly committed to maintaining a service atmosphere in which people of diverse backgrounds and lifestyles may grow personally and professionally. SCA1957
Please reach out to Dave at [email protected] if you have any questions about the position or application process!
Application Instructions:
1. Click the link on this page or use application Code: PO-00735477
2. Set up your Basic information
3. Complete the "Corps/Internship" section.
4. Complete the "Final" section and submit.
5. When filling out the essay questions and experience sections, be sure to include your interest and experience in conservation, natural resources, community building, and related fields.
6. Complete reference requests for at least one professional reference.
Final program model will be determined by available funding
Position ID: PO-00735477
Expected Dates: July 11, 2023 - October 20, 2023
Training Provided: Risk Management, Conservation Trail Skills and Non-Violent Communication
Educational/Recreational Opportunities: Western Massachusetts is a mecca of outdoor adventure opportunities, including hiking, biking, and paddling.
Professional Development Opportunities: Members will learn leadership and teamwork skills throughout the term of service. In addition, members will enhance their communication and conflict resolution skills while living and serving in a community environment.
Main Area of Focus: Backcountry/Trail work
Further Details
AmeriCorps Eligible: Eligible
Driving Logistics: Recommended
Members will be living in small group housing in rural western MA. While not required, a personal vehicle will provide many more opportunities during off time.
Housing or Stipend Provided?
A. Partner will provide suitable housing for the member
Indoor/Outdoor: Combination
US Citizenship: Yes