Live, learn, and explore Maine’s conservation pockets with the Maine Conservation Corps (MCC). As an MCC Shore Corps Steward, you can make an impact!

The Maine Conservation Corps will place Shore Corps Stewards within state properties, government agencies, and community-based organizations to expand awareness and implementation of nature-based solutions for shoreline stabilization.

After receiving training from the DEP Nonpoint Source Training Center, Stewards will: 1) perform outreach to educate community leaders and the general public about nature-based solutions; 2) conduct site assessments for landowners advising them on green infrastructure opportunities, native plantings, stream smart principles, and other tactics to increase resilience; 3) connect local communities to the strategies and activities included in Resilient Maine; and  4) host demonstration projects on public properties to provide hands-on training to community members about nature-based solutions.  

Location:

Individual sites will be posted on the MCC website as they are recruited. Applicants will be sent guidance through the process, and one application will enable you to choose up to 3 sites you wish to be considered for. All corners of Maine have been sites in the past, and exciting new opportunities present themselves each year. Training and orientation typically occur near the MCC office in Augusta, Maine.

Time Requirement:

Shore Corps Stewards are expected to serve a minimum of 40 hours per week. The Host Site determines a regular schedule, and it will include a minimum of 2 days off per week.  Regular schedules may be modified for special events.

Description of Duties:

• Perform outreach to educate community leaders and the general public about nature-based solutions
• Conduct site assessments for landowners advising them on green infrastructure opportunities, native plantings, stream smart principles, and other tactics to increase resilience
• Connect local communities to the strategies and activities included in Resilient Maine
• Host demonstration projects on public properties to provide hands-on training to community members about nature-based solutions
• Participate in MCC and AmeriCorps orientations, training, events, and conferences
• Assist with pre-approved and allowable fundraising activities
• Engage in volunteer management activities including:

• Recruiting volunteers
• Promoting and leading volunteer events
• Collecting and submitting Volunteer Assignment Agreements to MCC
• Implementing the Essential Volunteer Management Practices and Volunteer Management Action Plan

• Complete ongoing assignments and required tasks, including job readiness training, construction of member portfolios, weekly timesheets, and quarterly reports.
• Participate in a Site Visit with MCC staff
• Maintain regular communication with MCC, including checking email no less than weekly
• Participate in mid-term and end-of-term evaluations with the Host Site Supervisor
• Adhere to the MCC code of conduct, safety rules and guidelines, drug-free workplace, and other policies outlined in the MCC Handbook and AmeriCorps Member Agreement
• Represent MCC and host site in a professional and supportive manner to the public and media

Essential Functions:

• Proficient with Microsoft Office suite, familiarity with Publisher and Adobe is desired
• Familiarity with ArcGIS is desired
• Accurate and precise data management and field sampling experience
• Ability to learn new computer applications as necessary
• Proficient with using social media platforms and creating virtual content
• Comfortable communicating over the phone, via email, in person and in writing with a wide range of people
• Comfortable presenting in front of groups of people
• Experience teaching
• Ability to recruit and collaborate with volunteers
• Understand basic soil & water conservation practices (erosion control, BMPs)
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively
• Demonstrates good judgment and professionalism
• Demonstrates initiative, reliability, and flexibility
• Ability to serve both independently and as part of a team
• Ability to manage time effectively and produce quality results with attention to detail
• Demonstrates a desire to learn, serve others, and make a difference

Service Conditions:

Service will be completed outdoors in all conditions, with a mix of field and office tasks. The weather in Maine can be unpredictable and there is a wide range of conditions, so proper inclement weather clothing is necessary (warm layers, winter jacket, insulated winter boots with warm socks etc). Outdoor spaces could be snowy, icy, wet, muddy, etc. During the summer months the temperatures can vary from cool in the morning to hot in the afternoons, increased humidity and afternoon thunderstorms are common. Proper layering, and rain gear, is recommended.

• Service is performed primarily outdoors
• Service involves some physical labor
• Service involves travel
• Service is performed independently and as part of a team
• Service involves frequent communication to multiple parties
• Service involves managing time effectively and completing tasks with attention to detail
• Service will require the ability to self-motivate

Qualifications:

• High School diploma or equivalent
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Must be a US Citizen or permanent resident
• Must agree to a criminal history check
• All positions at State sites require a valid driver’s license with a good 5-year driving record
• Passion for community service and the environment
• Commitment to complete the full term of service
• Ideal candidates will be able to communicate effectively with a wide range of people on topics such as erosion control, the steps for the permitting process for projects, nature-based solutions, and climate resilience

Benefits:

• Weekly living allowance of $760 (before taxes) for 52 weeks
• Health insurance, if eligible
• Certifications in the National Incident Management System
• Conferences such as the Maine AmeriCorps Member Conference and Volunteer Leadership Conference
• Networking opportunities
• Maine State Park Pass
• A small number of Host Sites also offer housing as part of their position

Orientation and Training Topics:

Members will participate in up to multiple orientation days. Typical topics include: Prohibited Program Activities, MCC, Host Sites and You, OnCorps reporting, Portfolio Development, Professional Communication, National Incident Management Systems, and Leave No Trace. Orientation and training will be primarily in person.

Job readiness training, such as resume writing, job search components, appropriate workplace behaviors, and interview skills will be taught throughout the term of service.  Additional training may be provided by the Host Site.

Volunteer Engagement

The Environmental Steward will utilize the Essential Volunteer Management Practices to improve the host site’s volunteer program.

The MCC Shore Corps Stewards will also recruit and promote volunteer opportunities from the local community, businesses, and social organizations to accomplish projects. The MCC will assist members in identifying potential outreach opportunities and promoting events to increase volunteerism at the Host Site by using the Essential Volunteer Management Practices. The Shore Corps Steward will improve the sustainability of the overall volunteer program.