Deadline: Sat, 01/20/2024 - 12:00pm Employer: Appalachian Conservation Corps Job Field: Forestry Job Type: Seasonal, Temporary, Internship Location: West Virginia Location Detail: Beckley, WV Job Description: The Veterans Fire Corps (VFC) program provides training and on-the-job experience for post-9/11 era veterans ages 18-35 who are interested in entering careers and gaining experience in wildland firefighting and natural resource management. The program engages participants in a cohort environment in which a crew of recent-era Veterans work together to train and complete projects related primarily to fuels management, which will include prescribed burning and wildland firefighting. Wildland firefighting demands a high level of fitness to work in difficult environmental conditions, including steep terrain, extreme temperatures, altitude, and smoke. This program will provide practical, hands-on training and certifications related to natural resource management and wildland firefighting. The program is comprehensive and intentionally structured to prepare Veterans to transition into civilian careers focused on wildland firefighting. Additional opportunities such as repeated networking with Federal employees and training on the federal land management application process are also included in this program. Projects take place across the Appalachian Region, including work with the US Forest Service, the National Park Service, and other land managers. During their time in the field, Crew Members camp overnight and work outdoors in all types of weather conditions, performing heavy manual labor related to wildland fire and natural resource projects. Members should expect work and schedule to vary depending on region and season. In addition to fire, the crew should be prepared to assist on a variety of projects including trail maintenance, invasive species removal, and habitat management. Qualifications: - Be a military Veteran able to provide a DD214 or NGB-22 upon interview - Be between the ages of 18 and 35 - Able to pass the USFS arduous level pack test (3-mile hike with 45-pound pack within 45 minutes) - US Citizenship or Legal Permanent Residency status - Have a high school diploma or GED - Pass background checks - No previous experience is required, but a general comfort and previous knowledge of working/living in an outdoor setting is helpful. Salary: $600/weekly living stipend Benefits: - $600/week living stipend, paid bi-weekly - AmeriCorps Segal Education Award upon successful completion of service term - Member Assistance Program – 3 free sessions of support with a counseling or work-life balance specialist - Uniform shirts, helmet, work gloves, eye protection, and other necessary safety equipment provided - On-the-job training and certification opportunities including Wildland Fire Red Card, S212 Chainsaw Certification, and First Aid/CPR - Professional development opportunities (mentorship, resume support, alumni listserv, etc.) and exposure to natural resource career paths How to Apply: Please submit an application through the following link: https://jobs.silkroad.com/ConservationLegacy/Careers/jobs/4441 If you have any questions, please contact Sarah at sakers@conservationlegacy.org.
