Wisconsin Conservation Corps

Profile Jobs

Position Title: Recreation Assistant  

Position Service Site:  Ottawa National Forest Visitor Center Watersmeet, MI 

Service Time: September 9, 2024 – July 25, 2025 (1,700 Hour AmeriCorps Term, 46 weeks, 40 hours per week)

Benefits: Living stipend total for whole term = $23,000 ($500 per week). Education Award of approximately $7,300 upon successful completion of service. To find out more about the Award: https://americorps.gov/members-volunteers/segal-americorps-education-award/find-out-more. Health insurance optional (1 year/1,700 hour positions only, who are not already covered).

 

Housing is available.

 

Requirements: Valid Driver’s license

Recommended: Personal Vehicle
 

OVERVIEW: The nearly one million-acre Ottawa National Forest is located in the Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan, an area known for its remote character, picturesque lakes and streams, vast northern hardwood forests, and abundant wildlife. The Ottawa offers numerous recreational opportunities including stream and lake fishing (blue-ribbon trout streams), deer and small-game hunting, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, birding, and cross-country and downhill skiing, among others.

The half million acres that make up the southern portion of the Ottawa contains numerous glacial lakes, which are home to bald eagles, ospreys, loons, smallmouth and largemouth bass, walleye, northern pike, and other native fish and wildlife species. Within this vast expanse lie three designated Wilderness areas: Sylvania, McCormick, and the Sturgeon River Gorge, each offering their own unique features.

 

SERVICE DESCRIPTION: Ottawa National Forest’s Recreation Assistant will perform a variety of service in support of the recreation program based in Watersmeet, MI. They are responsible for providing visitor information about Clark Lake and Sylvania Wilderness, as well as instructing users about wilderness laws. Additionally, they will help coordinate responses to inquiries about recreation facilities, user permits, points of interest, and related activities. This role is stationed at the Entrance Station during the non-winter months, and at the Watersmeet Visitor Center during the winter months.

During non-winter months, the position is expected to be 50% office/indoor-based and 50% field-based with required field overnights occurring periodically. During winter months, service will be performed primarily in an office setting with occasional field components.

 

Duties include operation of hand tools, mowers, weed whips, and various types of power tools. In addition, this position may assist with data input and collect data out in the field utilizing a tablet or GPS unit. Service will often be performed in a small crew setting.

 

The Recreation Assistant will be trained/certified in:

• Cross Cut Saw certification
• First Aid and CPR
• ATV/UTV certification
• Defensive Driving
• Radio/SPOT device
• Avenza

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage Visitor Center operations.
• Assist visitors by providing with information about specific recreation opportunities and activities, such as those at specific sites.
• Monitor condition and use of trails portages and Wilderness campsites, perform maintenance to standards, and report issues.
• Monitor wilderness area for use, maintenance needs and report issues.
• Inform visitors of rules and/or regulations.
• Monitor Campgrounds, Day Use Areas, and other recreation use areas and report and correct safety issues
• Conduct site monitoring visits for compliance with recreation/Wilderness area rules and regulations, campfires, sanitation, use of camping sites. Report violations to Mentor.
• Use initiative in carrying out recurring assignments independently. Detailed instructions are provided for new assignments. Unfamiliar situations or technical deviations from established practices are referred to Mentor for guidance or resolution.
• Periodically rotate onto the Watersmeet Recreation crew perform and monitor day-to-day recreation maintenance, clean-up, and simple construction projects for sites, reporting issues. Day to day maintenance includes:
  • Mowing, trimming, and debris pick-up.
  • Cleaning and maintaining fire rings, campsites, bathrooms, beaches, and other facilities.
  • Assisting with assisting public with questions related to camping and recreation opportunities on the district.
  • Helping to plow recreation sites in winter.

• Member may take part in an overnight trip involving complex portage and campsite projects with the main mode of travel is by canoe and foot. Major duties include:
  • Backcountry maintenance using crosscut saws and axes, as part of the standard toolkit on designated wilderness campsites, and wilderness portage and hiking trails.
     

HOUSING: Members should be prepared to live in communal housing with other members of the program/organization/agency. Members should expect to have roommates, and must inform staff of any housing preferences or required accommodations.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum age requirement is 18 years old.

• Ability to work independently.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Understanding of or willingness to learn various conservation practices.
• Passionate about outdoor recreation.
• Possess a valid driver’s license.
• Physical demands and service environment regularly requires the service member to be outdoors in wooded areas and on uneven natural paths.
• Physically able to spend long days outside in inclement weather, hiking on and off trail.
• Able to carry up to 50 pounds of equipment.
• Ability to serve in a variety of weather conditions such as temperatures ranging from below freezing to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit, high winds, intense, sunshine, rain, and snow.
• Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to multitask and shift schedule and priorities to meet changing conditions.
• Upon hire, a criminal background check will be conducted. Service with WisCorps will be considered probationary until all results are returned and have been reviewed.

 

WisCorps provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran per applicable federal, state, and local laws. We are committed to assuring equal employment opportunity and equal access to services, programs, and activities for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability, and need to access information in an alternative format, or need it translated into another language, please contact us at 608-782-2494, by email at staff@wiscorps.org or Wisconsin Relay 711.

Position Title: Visitor Center Assistant   

Position Service Site:  Ottawa National Forest Visitor Center Watersmeet, MI  

Service Time: September 9, 2024 – July 25, 2025 (1,700 Hour AmeriCorps Term, 46 weeks, 40 hours per week)

Benefits: Living stipend total for whole term = $23,000 ($500 per week). Education Award of approximately $7,300 upon successful completion of service. To find out more about the Award: https://americorps.gov/members-volunteers/segal-americorps-education-award/find-out-more. Health insurance optional (1 year/1,700 hour positions only, who are not already covered).

 

Housing is available.

 

Requirements: Valid Driver’s license

Recommended: Personal Vehicle
 

OVERVIEW: The nearly one million-acre Ottawa National Forest is located in the Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan, an area known for its remote character, picturesque lakes and streams, vast northern hardwood forests, and abundant wildlife. The Ottawa offers numerous recreational opportunities including stream and lake fishing (blue-ribbon trout streams), deer and small-game hunting, canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, birding, and cross-country and downhill skiing, among others.

The half million acres that make up the southern portion of the Ottawa contains numerous glacial lakes, which are home to bald eagles, ospreys, loons, smallmouth and largemouth bass, walleye, northern pike, and other native fish and wildlife species. Within this vast expanse lie three designated Wilderness areas: Sylvania, McCormick, and the Sturgeon River Gorge, each offering their own unique features.

 

SERVICE DESCRIPTION: Ottawa National Forest’s Visitor Center Assistant is responsible for providing visitor information and helping to coordinate responses to inquiries about recreation facilities, user permits, points of interest, and related activities. Additionally, they are tasked with educating visitors on Leave No Trace principles, which aim to minimize negative impacts on the forest. This position may involve developing interpretive programs and assisting in delivering interpretive and environmental education initiatives. Furthermore, there may be opportunities for involvement in media and exhibit development for use within the unit and the Visitor Center.

They may also rotate into the recreation and Wilderness Crew periodically to help maintain and restore both developed and dispersed recreation sites in order to prevent resource damage and minimize the overall impact on the land. Facilities maintenance is crucial for ensuring sanitation impacts are minimized throughout the forest.

 

Service will be performed primarily in an office setting with some field components. During non-winter months, the position is expected to be 80% office/indoor-based and 20% field-based. Periodic field overnights will be required throughout non-winter months.

 

The Visitor Center Assistant will be trained/certified in:

• First Aid and CPR
• Defensive Driving
• Radio/SPOT device
• Avenza

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Manage Visitor Center operations.
• Assist visitors by providing information about specific recreation opportunities and activities.
• Greet visitors and answer phone calls.
• Inform visitors of rules and regulations.
• Support Visitor Center staff in educational programming.
• Assist in development and presentation of interpretive/ educational programing at special events, school groups, community outreach.
• Use initiative in carrying out recurring assignments independently. Detailed instructions are provided for new assignments. Unfamiliar situations or technical deviations from established practices are referred to Mentor for guidance or resolution.
• Periodically rotate onto the Watersmeet Recreation crew perform and monitor day-to-day recreation maintenance, clean-up, and simple construction projects for sites, reporting issues. Day to day maintenance includes:
  • Mowing, trimming, and debris pick-up.
  • Cleaning and maintaining fire rings, campsites, bathrooms, beaches, and other facilities.
  • Assisting with assisting public with questions related to camping and recreation opportunities on the district.
  • Helping to plow recreation sites in winter.

• Member may take part in an overnight trip involving complex portage and campsite projects with the main mode of travel is by canoe and foot. Major duties include:
  • Backcountry maintenance using crosscut saws and axes, as part of the standard toolkit on designated wilderness campsites, and wilderness portage and hiking trails.
     

HOUSING: Members should be prepared to live in communal housing with other members of the program/organization/agency. Members should expect to have roommates, and must inform staff of any housing preferences or required accommodations.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum age requirement is 18 years old.

• Ability to work independently.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Understanding of or willingness to learn various conservation practices.
• Passionate about outdoor recreation.
• Possess a valid driver’s license.
• Physical demands and service environment regularly requires the service member to be outdoors in wooded areas and on uneven natural paths.
• Ability to multitask and shift schedule and priorities to meet changing conditions.
• Upon hire, a criminal background check will be conducted. Service with WisCorps will be considered probationary until all results are returned and have been reviewed.

 

WisCorps provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran per applicable federal, state, and local laws. We are committed to assuring equal employment opportunity and equal access to services, programs, and activities for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability, and need to access information in an alternative format, or need it translated into another language, please contact us at 608-782-2494, by email at staff@wiscorps.org or Wisconsin Relay 711.

Position Title: Environmental Educator Service Member  

Position Service Site: Aldo Leopold Nature Center (Monona, WI)

Service Time: September 9, 2024 – August 22, 2025 (1,700 Hour AmeriCorps Term, 50 weeks)

9/9/24 to 6/1/25 – Average of 35 hours per week, Sunday - Thursday

6/2/25 to 8/22/25 – Average of 40 hours per week, Monday - Friday

There may be occasional special events or programs that require this to shift slightly. 

Benefits: Living stipend total for whole term = $23,000 ($460 per week). Education Award of approximately $7,300 upon successful completion of service. To find out more about the Award: https://americorps.gov/members-volunteers/segal-americorps-education-award/find-out-more.

Health insurance optional (1,700-hour positions only, available for individuals who are not already covered).

Requirement: Covid-19 Vaccine

 

OVERVIEW: The Aldo Leopold Nature Center (ALNC) is a non-profit educational organization guided by Aldo Leopold's land ethic, with a mission to nurture children, their well-being, and environmental sustainability through connecting and learning in nature. ALNC serves children, teachers, and families through year-round programming that includes field trips, camps, a nature preschool, and public and private events. ALNC is leading the way to ensure visitors of all ages and backgrounds have opportunities to connect with nature by offering positive and constructive learning opportunities that capture their interest, engage their senses and teach them to appreciate the interconnectedness of all living things.

 

SERVICE DESCRIPTION: ALNC is seeking an energetic individual to join its team in engaging both children and the public in immersive indoor/outdoor educational experiences centered around inquiry-based environmental topics. The primary duties of this role include providing support and assistance in ALNC’s nature-based preschool (ages 3 - 5), conducting educational field trips (mainly for grades K - 5), leading or assisting with afterschool programs (grades K - 5), leading summer camp programming (ages 4-12), and contributing to other educational initiatives along with assisting and engaging with visitors.

 

Trainings include:

• First Aid and CPR
• Abusive Head Trauma Training
• Mandated Reporter Training

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Independently supervise small groups of children and lead activities based on topic, interest and abilities. 
• Assess group dynamics and apply appropriate behavior management techniques. Training and support is provided in this area. 
• Collaborate with other departments and staff to build relationships and connections within the organization. 
• Follow pre-written lesson plans or schedules, and develop lesson plans depending on the programming. 
• Oversee weekend public hours by interacting with visitors and answering questions, registering walk-in guests for programs, sending confirmation emails for upcoming programs, etc. as needed
• Open and close building as needed.
• Assist in maintaining public areas and program supplies.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

• At least 18 years of age and have completed high school or its equivalent.
• Vaccinated against COVID-19.
• Experience working with children in formal and/or non-formal educational settings.
• Ability to work well in a team environment.
• Ability to take initiative and problem solve.
• Excitement for the natural environment and an ability to share that excitement.
• Comfort in managing facility and visitors, assisting volunteers, and following written instructions and procedures.
• Reliable transportation to ALNC.
• Willingness to be certified in Standard First Aid and Adult/Child CPR (annual training offered in June).
• Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to multitask and shift schedule and priorities to meet changing conditions.
• Upon hire, a both a criminal and childcare background check, including a fingerprint screening,

will be conducted. Service with WisCorps will be considered probationary until all results are returned and have been reviewed.

 

Preferred:

• Background in environmental education, education, natural science, or a related field. 
• Knowledge of regional flora and fauna.
• Experience working with technology (IT, A/V equipment, etc.) and computer skills (Microsoft Office, Google Suite, etc.).
• Spanish language skills.

 

 

WisCorps provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran per applicable federal, state, and local laws. We are committed to assuring equal employment opportunity and equal access to services, programs, and activities for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability, and need to access information in an alternative format, or need it translated into another language, please contact us at 608-782-2494, by email at staff@wiscorps.org or Wisconsin Relay 711.

Position Title: Community Garden Placement 

Position Service Site: Kane Street Garden in La Crosse, WI

Service Time:  September 9, 2024 – August 22, 2025  (1,700 Hour AmeriCorps Term, 50 weeks)

9/9/24 to 11/17/24 - 40 Hours per week

11/18/24 to 3/9/25 –30 hours per week

3/10/25 to 8/22/25 – 40 hours per week

Benefits: Living stipend total for whole term = $23,000 ($460 per week). Education Award of approximately $7,300 upon successful completion of service. To find out more about the Award: https://americorps.gov/members-volunteers/segal-americorps-education-award/find-out-more.
Health insurance optional (1,700-hour positions only, available for individuals who are not already covered).

 

OVERVIEW: The Hunger Task Force works to eliminate hunger by harvesting community resources and being the voice of the hungry. They are serving over 120 meal sites, food pantries, youth programs, and outreach sites in La Crosse, Vernon, Trempealeau, and Monroe Counties in Wisconsin, Houston and Winona Counties in Minnesota, and Allamakee County in Iowa. In 2020, over 1,500,000 pounds of TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program), 250,311 pounds of Wis. Dairy Recovery foods, 1,500,000 pounds of Farmer to Family Boxes, and 2,300,000 pounds of “recovered” food was distributed to these partner programs.
 

SERVICE DESCRIPTION: Hunger Task Force’s Community Garden Placement will be responsible for providing opportunities through programming for community involvement in environmentally conscious food sourcing. They will spend a majority of their time maintaining the gardens and greenhouse, cultivating interest in area community gardens, giving input on the development of new garden construction, and assisting with volunteer mobilization and recruitment.

 

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Planting and Harvesting

• Collaborate with garden team to develop planting layouts and crop rotation plans for optimal garden health and productivity.
• Assist in transplanting seedlings or direct seeding according to proper planting depth, spacing, and watering techniques.
• Monitor crop quality and identify any issues such as disease or pest damage during the harvesting process.
• Assist in post-harvest activities such as cleaning and storing equipment, and replenishing garden beds for future planting.

 

Community Improvement

• Assist with development, management, and maintenance of community gardens.
• Research and implement a variety of urban gardening practices to educate students and community members about sustainable and reliable food sources.
• Assist with design aspects of new community gardens.

 

Programming

•     Design and implement new programs for different age groups pertaining to urban renewal and community    improvement projects while informing about environmentally conscious practices focusing on community gardening.

•     Assist with planning, scheduling, teaching and general supervision of programs and events for youth and community members.

•     Complete program and event evaluations.

•     Keep detailed records of program types and attendance numbers for grant purposes.

•     Use general budgetary and financial policies and procedure to assess feasibility of programs and events.

 

Program Marketing

•     Assist in designing and creating publicity for programs and events.

•     Assist in distribution of publicity for upcoming events, programs, and volunteer opportunities.

•     Assist with website and social media to promote programs and events.

 

Volunteer Recruitment and Management

• Assist with recruitment, training, and evaluation of non-paid, non-AmeriCorps volunteers who assist with programs or who assist with garden maintenance

• Assist with scheduling and supervision of volunteers
• Make sure appropriate records of volunteer hours are kept

 

Warehouse

• Assist staff with all elements of the Food Recovery Program (donations, food pick-ups and deliveries, proper storage, etc.).
• Collaborate with recipient agencies, developing each agency's needs to provide foods most appropriate to their programs.
• Develop methods to handle compost at warehouse and garden, and collaborate with farmers for animal feed
• Assist with program promotion (events, media, fundraising) where appropriate.

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Able to perform duties in inclement weather.
• Maintains professional working relationships with peers, coworkers, vendors, and the public that are inclusive, collaborative, and respectful.
• Ready to take initiative in doing assigned work without prompting and seeks out other tasks that help the team accomplish their collective goals.
• Works hard with a positive mental attitude, in all weather and terrain conditions.
• Withstand the physical demands of work which involves some lifting, carrying, bending, and hiking across uneven terrain.
• Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation
• Ability to multitask and shift schedule and priorities to meet changing conditions.
• Upon hire, a criminal background check will be conducted. Service with WisCorps will be considered probationary until all results are returned and have been reviewed.

 

WisCorps provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran per applicable federal, state, and local laws. We are committed to assuring equal employment opportunity and equal access to services, programs, and activities for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability, and need to access information in an alternative format, or need it translated into another language, please contact us at 608-782-2494, by email at staff@wiscorps.org or Wisconsin Relay 711.

Position Title:  Sustainability Assistant

Position Service Site:  Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration (St. Rose Convent in La Crosse, WI); Viterbo University (La Crosse, WI)

Service Time: September 9, 2024 – August 22, 2025 (1,700 Hour AmeriCorps Term, 50 weeks, 35 hours per week)

Benefits: Living stipend total for whole term = $23,000 ($460 per week). Education Award of approximately $7,300 upon successful completion of service. To find out more about the Award: https://americorps.gov/members-volunteers/segal-americorps-education-award/find-out-more.

Health insurance optional (1,700-hour positions only, available for individuals who are not already covered).

Requirements: Covid-19 vaccine required.

OVERVIEW: Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration’s goal is to provide young environmental leaders with the opportunity to gain relevant professional experience that serve the environment and the community by supporting healthy urban and rural ecosystems. The organization is focused on combating climate change and building more sustainable practices within the St. Rose convent supporting Viterbo University to do the same. Both FSPA and Viterbo have strong core Franciscan values and are collaborating to engage and support others to understand the intersections of people and planet.  

Learn more at fspa.org/land and fspa.org/content/ministries/integral-ecology

 

SERVICE DESCRIPTION: FSPA’s Sustainability Assistant will aid in living out the commitment to care for Earth assisting the FSPA Office of Integral Ecology in researching and promoting climate conscious ways of living and working, providing education and outreach to the congregation and the communities in which they serve, engaging the community, and managing programs to support the FSPA ministries.  The Sustainability Assistant will also share time serving Viterbo University as the campus is currently developing a climate action plan. Viterbo collaborates with FSPA and both campuses will serve the greater La Crosse Community and stakeholders through lens of sustainability and climate conscious decision making.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Community Improvement

• Willingness to learn the impacts of climate change on the Driftless region and Wisconsin, and help educate others how to mitigate those impacts and build a resilient community.
• Support both FSPA and Viterbo in meeting the benchmarks for action with the City of La Crosse Climate Action Plan.
• Support the development and implementation of the FSPA Laudato Si Action Plan and a Viterbo Laudato Si Action Plan (Climate Action Plan) including the development of standard operating procedures.
• Increase environmental awareness and promote sustainability through community outreach events.
• Design and implement at least four programs on sustainable business practices (recycling, print management, food procurement, etc.), and create supporting documentation and presentation materials.
• Identify and develop virtual resources related to climate action in the Driftless region.
• In the case of natural disasters, AmeriCorps member may be recruited to assist the community.

 

Programming

• Research and design projects that incorporate baseline information from the community to foster achievement of the FSPA and Viterbo Laudato Si Action Plans and aim to advance FSPA and Viterbo Laudato Si project goals.
• Assist with designing, improving, and updating kiosks, signs, and brochures as related to the FSPA Laudato Si Action Plan and projects at St. Rose Convent and support Viterbo campus activities for climate action.
• Collaborate with Sisters, Affiliates, staff and all local universities to create community-focused climate awareness campaigns and working on a greenhouse gas inventory.
• Assist FSPA land projects working in the garden, greenhouse, orchard, woodlands and prairies when needed.

 

Program Marketing

• Help create or curate simple “how-to” videos, including but not limited to sustainable lifestyles, recycling, composting, etc.
• Create an outreach plan to connect with local and regional environmental and eco-justice organizations to enhance the FSPA and Viterbo Laudato Si Action Plans and projects.
• Track progress and develop reports on specific sustainability and environmental measures.

 

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

• A team player and good communicator with flexible attitude and eagerness to learn.
• Physically active and able to lift at least 30 lbs. (occasionally 50lbs) with stooping and bending.
• Ability to present, virtually and in-person to a variety of stakeholders and the general public.
• Able to work in all weather conditions conducive of Wisconsin and willingness to be flexible for night and weekend service opportunities.
• Physically able to work long days outside on steep, rugged terrain, which involves some lifting, carrying, bending and hiking across uneven terrain.
• An intrepid sense of curiosity and enthusiasm about research.
• Willing to interact inter-generationally and inter-culturally in a respectful manner.
• Ability to take direction and accept constructive criticism with a strong sense of responsibility and follow – through.
• Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks with attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Education and/or experience in community health, recreation management, education, environmental studies, sustainability, and climate resilience a plus.
• Technology proficient in platforms such as Google Workspace, Moodle and Microsoft Office.
• Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to multitask and shift schedule and priorities to meet changing conditions.
• Upon hire, a criminal background check will be conducted. Service with WisCorps will be considered probationary until all results are returned and have been reviewed.

 

WisCorps provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran per applicable federal, state, and local laws. We are committed to assuring equal employment opportunity and equal access to services, programs, and activities for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability, and need to access information in an alternative format, or need it translated into another language, please contact us at 608-782-2494, by email at staff@wiscorps.org or Wisconsin Relay 711.

Position Title: Crew Leader
 

Position Service Site: Wisconsin Conservation Corps, based in La Crosse, Wisconsin; project sites throughout Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest
 

Service Dates:

The WCC Crew Leader commitment will feature two AmeriCorps service terms in 2024:

• April 30th through August 22nd, 2024 (17 weeks)
  • 1200 Hour AmeriCorps Service Term
• September 10th through November 20th, 2024 (11 weeks)
  • 900 Hour AmeriCorps Service Term

                             

Benefits:

• Biweekly living stipend paid throughout season
  • $550 per week for 28 weeks, $15,400
• Segal AmeriCorps Education Award earned upon successful completion of service
  • Approximately $8,700
     

Housing: Provided in the form of single occupancy tents at campsites or dormitory-style indoor accommodations (depending on project and time of year).
 

Requirements: Valid driver’s license, ability to pass a background check, and full availability throughout the season.
 

Position Overview: Crew Leaders lead and motivate Crew Members while completing conservation projects as a team in the outdoors. Wisconsin Conservation Corps crews travel throughout the northern Midwest and can expect to perform conservation service projects with 3 to 6 different project partners during their season. A typical WCC crew features two or three Crew Leaders and three or four Crew Members. Crew Leaders will be expected to change crews at times during the field season depending on the needs of WCC or project partners. This means that one Crew Leader may not stay with a specific crew for their entire summer or fall season; they may serve with several different WCC crews during their season. A Crew Leader is responsible for the safety of the crew throughout the season at project sites and during non-project time. A Crew Leader will educate Crew Members about conservation corps operations and successful implementation of conservation projects. Crew Leaders will need to communicate with WCC staff and project partners on a daily basis through phone calls, text messages, workflow apps, and email. Crew Leaders are required to drive WCC fleet vehicles and manage safe trailer use. Crew Leaders will regularly tow trailers behind their fleet vehicles throughout the season. When not actively serving on a project, a Crew Leader is responsible for promoting service and environmental awareness through community engagement and volunteerism in the outdoors.

 

Service Description: Wisconsin Conservation Corps crews serve together to complete projects that make positive and lasting change in natural areas around the upper Midwest. Conservation projects that WCC crews complete may include:

• Habitat restoration through the treatment and removal of invasive species
• Trail building and design in state parks, national parks, conserved land, and other publicly accessible natural areas
• Boardwalk construction and installation along National Scenic Trails and in publicly accessible natural areas

Crew Leaders have the opportunity to expand their comfort zone. Crews spend the full duration of their season living, serving, and traveling together. Off times during the season are an opportunity to explore nearby towns and natural areas, take care of chores like laundry and grocery shopping, and relax at camp or in provided housing. Wisconsin Conservation Corps does not allow the use of alcohol, recreational drugs, or tobacco throughout the entire crew season, during the service day or during non-project time. WCC crews live sustainably and follow Leave No Trace principles. Participants are responsible for developing a menu, grocery shopping, and cooking together, while taking into account all possible dietary restrictions.

 

Crew Leader Training: Crew Leaders participate in a five week training program provided by WCC at the beginning of the season. Crew Leader Training features the following trainings and more:

• NOLS Wilderness First Aid
• Chainsaw Use and Maintenance Certification
• Brush Saw Use and Maintenance Training
• Certified Pesticide Applicator Certification in Wisconsin
• Trail Building Training
• AmeriCorps Orientation
• AmeriCorps Conflict Resolution Training
• Fleet Vehicle Use and Driving Training
• Trailer Towing Training and Practice
• Tent and Campsite Set Up Training
• Budgeting, Food Shopping, Cooking, and Hygiene Overview

 

Responsibilities:

• Co-lead and motivate a conservation corps crew made up of 2 or 3 Crew Leaders and 3 or 4 Crew Members
• Oversee safety and well-being of the crew during the service day and during non-project time
• Serve up to 12 hours per day on project for 4-10 consecutive days in outdoor locations; 40 hours per week of direct project field service time is expected
• Complete service projects and camp in a variety of weather conditions and temperatures
• Operate and maintain chainsaws, brush saws, herbicide applicators, backpack sprayers, mowers, and hand tools to accomplish conservation projects as assigned
• Operate fleet vehicle and trailer as assigned
• Hike extended distances on various terrain with a 25+ pound backpack
• Manage day-to-day crew tasks including cooking, camp cleanliness, crew schedule and time management, errands, chores, and vehicle and trailer cleanliness
• Use basic budgetary and financial guidelines to manage food shopping expenses
• Keep detailed records of crew accomplishments, including acres restored or feet of trails maintained/built
• Assist with documenting and promoting the WCC Crew Program by photographing participants in the field and sharing photos with WCC staff
• Communicate with project partners to ensure proper completion of project objectives
• Communicate with Crew Members, WCC staff, and members of the public
• Practice Leave No Trace principles and sustainable living techniques
• Create a functional and positive crew community
• Abide by all WCC & AmeriCorps policies and procedures
• Alcohol, recreational drug, and tobacco use is strictly prohibited throughout the season, during project work, evenings, and off times
  
   

Qualifications:

• Able to perform field duties while exposed to adverse conditions such as inclement weather and biting insects
• Willingness and ability to use herbicide, chainsaws, and any other tools required to complete assigned tasks
• Leadership experience as conservation corps Crew Leader, summer camp counselor, trip leader, mentor, resident assistant, or other related experience
• Participants must provide personal items such as all-leather boots, sleeping bags, backpacks, water containers and rain gear; WCC has a small library of outdoor gear that may be borrowed for a season (supplies are limited and are not guaranteed to be available upon arrival)
• Must be able to commit to the full 28 week field season
• Passionate about environmental causes and creating community through environmental service
• Understanding or willingness to learn various conservation practices or land management techniques
• Possess a valid driver’s license and an insurable driving record
• Upon hire, all Wisconsin Conservation Corps Crew Leaders must consent to a Criminal History Check; service with WCC will be considered probationary until all results are returned and have been reviewed

 

WCC provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran per applicable federal, state, and local laws. We are committed to assuring equal employment opportunity and equal access to services, programs, and activities for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability, and need to access information in an alternative format, or need it translated into another language, please contact us at 608-782-2494, by email at staff@wiscorps.org or Wisconsin Relay 711.

Position Title: Crew Member
 

Position Service Site: Wisconsin Conservation Corps, based in La Crosse, Wisconsin; project sites throughout Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest
 

Service Dates:

• September 10th through November 15th, 2024
  • 450 Hour AmeriCorps Service Term

 

Benefits:

• Biweekly living stipend paid throughout the season
  • $300 per week for 12 weeks, $3,600 total
• Segal AmeriCorps Education Award earned upon successful completion of service
  • Approximately $1,900

 

Housing: Provided in the form of single occupancy tents at campsites or dormitory-style indoor accommodations (depending on project and time of year).
 

Requirements: Ability to pass a background check and full availability throughout the season.
 

Position Overview: Crew Members complete high priority restoration projects all over Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest as a part of the Wisconsin Conservation Corps Crew Program. WCC crews travel throughout the northern Midwest and can expect to perform conservation service projects with 3 to 6 different project partners during their season. Crew Members and Crew Leaders may be moved from crew to crew depending on the needs of WCC or project partners. Projects may include habitat restoration, invasive plant removal and treatment, trail building and restoration, boardwalk construction, carpentry projects, and other land and grounds management duties for project partners. Crew Members live and serve with two or three Crew Leaders and two or three fellow Crew Members throughout the season. Crew Members can expect to live in single occupancy tents at campsites and campgrounds or in indoor, dormitory-style housing near their project sites. Crews may relocate every week or may stay in one location for several weeks at a time. When not actively serving on a project, Crew Members are responsible for promoting community service and environmental awareness through community engagement and volunteerism in the outdoors.

 

Service Description: Wisconsin Conservation Corps crews serve together to complete projects that make positive and lasting changes in natural areas around the Upper Midwest. Conservation projects that WCC crews complete may include:

• Habitat restoration through the treatment and removal of invasive species
• Trail building and design in state parks, national parks, conserved land, and other publicly accessible natural areas
• Boardwalk construction and installation along National Scenic Trails and in publicly accessible natural areas

Crew Members have the opportunity to expand their comfort zone. Crews spend the full duration of their season living, serving, and traveling together. Off times during the season are an opportunity to explore nearby towns and natural areas, take care of chores like laundry and grocery shopping, and relax at camp or in provided housing. Wisconsin Conservation Corps does not allow the use of alcohol, recreational drugs, or tobacco throughout the crew season, during the service day or during non-projec time. WCC crews live sustainably and follow Leave No Trace principles. Participants are responsible for developing a menu, grocery shopping, and cooking together, while taking into account all possible dietary restrictions.

 

Crew Member Training: Crew Members participate in a three day training program provided by WCC staff at the beginning of the season. Crew Member Training features the following trainings and more:

• Brush Saw Use and Maintenance
• Trail Building Basics
• AmeriCorps Orientation
• AmeriCorps Conflict Resolution Training
• Tent and Campsite Set Up

 

Responsibilities:

• Serve up to 10 hours per day for 4-10 consecutive days on a crew comprised of 4-7 other service members in outdoor locations; 40 hours per week of direct project field service time is expected
• Serve and live in a variety of weather conditions and temperatures, either in a camping environment or in indoor dormitory-style housing
• Operate and maintain brush saws and hand tools to accomplish environmental restoration project tasks as assigned
• Use long-handled trail building tools to maintain trails or to build new trail
• Hike extended distances on various terrain with a 25+ pound backpack
• Effectively communicate with fellow Crew Members, Crew Leaders, Wisconsin Conservation Corps staff, project sponsors, and members of the public
• Practice Leave No Trace principles and sustainable living techniques
• Be an active and reliable part of a functional and positive crew community
• Abide by all Wisconsin Conservation Corps & AmeriCorps policies and procedures
• Alcohol, recreational drug, and tobacco use is strictly prohibited throughout the season, during project work, evenings, and off times
   

Qualifications:

• Able to perform field duties while exposed to adverse conditions such as inclement weather and biting insects
• Willingness and ability to use hand tools and brush saws to complete assigned tasks
• Participants must provide personal items such as all-leather boots, sleeping bags, backpacks, water containers, and rain gear; WCC has a small library of outdoor gear that may be borrowed for a season (supplies are limited and are not guaranteed to be available upon arrival)
• Must be able to commit to the full 12 week field season
• Passionate about environmental causes and creating community through service
• Understanding or willingness to learn various conservation practices or land management techniques
• Proficient communication skills
• Upon hire, all Wisconsin Conservation Corps Crew Members must consent to a Criminal History Check; service with WCC will be considered probationary until all results are returned and have been reviewed

 

WCC provides equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran per applicable federal, state, and local laws. We are committed to assuring equal employment opportunity and equal access to services, programs, and activities for persons with disabilities. If you have a disability, and need to access information in an alternative format, or need it translated into another language, please contact us at 608-782-2494, by email at staff@wiscorps.org or Wisconsin Relay 711.