URBAN AND COMMUNITY FORESTRY (UCF) CREW MEMBER - FALL 2024

Idaho Conservation Corps, part of Northwest Youth Corps, is seeking young people aged 19-26 interested in a jobs-training and educational opportunity, working outdoors while making a positive impact on our urban forests.

Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) crew members complete urban forest health projects for twelve weeks throughout the Treasure Valley area. Experienced field staff provide training and education on urban forestry projects such as tree planting and maintenance, wildfire protection, invasive plant management, and tree surveying. You join a close-knit team of 5 crew members and one crew leader, committed to play a vital role in improving our urban forests and the environment.

The work is physical and rigorous. Crews work in all weather and terrain, rise early, and use a variety of hand and power tools in remote areas. A key focus is building leadership and cooperation within the team. Prior experience is not necessary, and all training is provided, but maturity, teamwork, and openness to new challenges are vital.

Position: AmeriCorps Crew Member, Seasonal

Dates/Hours: 9/23/24 - 12/13/24. Typical hours are Monday-Friday (possibly Tuesday-Saturday or even Sunday-Thursday), 8:00AM to 4:30 PM plus occasional Saturdays, but can vary due to weather, training needs, etc.

Members must complete a minimum of 450 hours of service - including work, training, education, and travel time, a 30 minute lunch and at least two breaks each day. This 30-minute lunch break does not count toward AmeriCorps member service hours.

Location: Crews start and end in either Boise, ID or Nampa, ID. Crew members are responsible for arriving at the designated meeting location on time each day (we can provide info on bus and bike routes as needed). Transportation is provided throughout the work day, but housing is not. Crew members are expected to obtain their own housing in Boise/Nampa areas. Project locations generally include city parks, public lands, and private properties in disadvantaged neighborhoods. 

Benefits: Members receive a living allowance of $7,200 dispensed in pro-rated monthly increments, along with a $1,824.07 AmeriCorps Education Award upon successful completion of the program.

Training & Professional Development Opportunities (varies by session): Participants are provided a comprehensive training during their term of service. Training will not exceed 20% of total member service hours. Depending on your crew's projects, training MAY cover the following topics:

• USDA Chainsaw Operation and Maintenance
• Brush Cutter Operation and Maintenance
• Power Pole Saw Operation and Maintenance
• Wood Chipper Operation
• Driver (select members only) and Trailer Use
• Tool Use and Maintenance
• Native and Invasive Species Identification
• Pesticide Applicator Training
• Forestry Education including Tree Identification, Proper Tree Planting and Maintenance techniques, Common Health Issues in Trees, Surveying Techniques
• OHSA Training
• UCF Crew members can gain industry-recognized credentials and skills that can be added to their CV/Resume. These will assist Crew members in gaining access to outdoor-related career careers.
• Gear and Safety Equipment provided: 2 x field work shirts, eye protection, ear protection, hard hat, rain gear and more.

Qualifications:

• 19-26 years old (age at enrollment).
• Pass a background check (applicants with past involvement with the criminal legal system encouraged to apply)
• Be able to arrive on time to the pre-designated meeting point during all training and service
• Desire to learn and grow.
• Positive mental attitude, flexibility and commitment to success.
• Excellent judgment.
• Ability to listen, give and take feedback.
• Desire to go the extra mile to make a positive impact on oneself, others and the environment.
• Current First Aid/CPR certification, or applicants must obtain certification before their participation. Reimbursement (up to $35) of this certification may be possible on completion of the session.
• High School Diploma, GED

QUESTIONS/CONTACT: Catherine Waddell, Member Services Coordinator, cwaddell@nwyouthcorps.org.

Northwest Youth Corps is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Our core purpose is to provide opportunities for youth and young adults to learn, grow, and experience success. We believe diversity is a key source of strength for our communities, and we strive to create a safe and empowering environment for participants from a wide range of backgrounds and abilities. We are deeply invested in the success of youth and young adults of all races, ethnicities, gender identities, religions, sexual orientations, economic statuses, or other socio-cultural identifiers.