Experience Utah. Discover Career Paths. Meet Amazing People. Now Hiring Fall Field Crew Members!

About the Utah Conservation Corps

The Utah Conservation Corps (UCC) is an AmeriCorps program dedicated to developing the conservation leaders of tomorrow. We engage in projects throughout the state and region that address goals relating to environmental conservation, leadership, and education while providing hands-on training and skills to members as we help build the next generation of America’s workforce. Our vision is to create thriving communities and conserve the natural heritage of Utah and the Intermountain West. The UCC supports Utah’s pride in our tradition of service and volunteerism to get things done.

Position Overview

• Field Office Locations:

  • Logan

  • Cedar City

  • Moab

• Term of Service Dates (tentative):

  • Summer (450 hr. term): June 1 – August 15

  • Summer + Fall (900 hr. term): June 1 – November 15

  • Fall (450 hr. term): August 21 – November 15

• Schedule: Full-time commitment, hours & schedules vary from week to week with extended travel up to 14 days. Majority of time is spent on projects in the field.

UCC field crews are assigned to a variety of conservation projects throughout Utah and the Intermountain West. Crew Members work and live in the outdoors as part of a field crew in service to public lands and the communities that surround them. Members are responsible for being a supporting member of their crew, upholding and abiding by UCC policies & procedures, and conducting themselves in a safe and productive manner. All Crew Members are trained in safe and proper tool use project techniques, and outdoor living. Training topics may include chainsaw and hand tool use, project techniques, and first aid. This position involves frequent travel, camping, irregular hours, and a varying weekly schedule.

Crews serve on projects in a variety of locations. Field projects may be backcountry (hiking into the project site, camping away from a vehicle) or front country (driving to the project site daily, camping at the vehicle, or non-camp lodging). Projects may be urban (located in a city or town) or rural (located in national parks, forests, etc. with limited access to facilities and services). Weather is variable, and work and campsites can range from 2,000-13,000 feet in elevation.

Projects & Schedule

Projects may include (but are not limited to):

• Trail construction and maintenance

• Invasive species management, including herbicide application and chainsaw operation

• Habitat restoration

• Fence installation/repair/removal

• Land management inventory and mapping

• Recreation facilities maintenance and construction

• Recreation signage repair

• Community service

• National disaster response efforts

Every crew will have unique projects and travel schedules. Crews may be on ‘hitch’ for 4-14 days, working 10- hours/day (some days may be up to 12 hours/day), while camping in front and backcountry settings. Typically, crews will have 3-5 days off between hitches. Crews should expect project schedules and project work to vary. Days will include two 15-minute breaks and one 30-minute lunch. (The 30-minute lunch break does not count toward service hours).

Crew members may be deployed on AmeriCorps Disaster Response Team mission assignments to support preparedness, response, and recovery activities in communities impacted by disasters.

The Crew Member position is an AmeriCorps term of service that requires a full-time commitment (about 45 hours per week).

Who Are You?

We seek team members who:

• Are creative problem solvers

• Speak and act professionally, with a high level of maturity when faced with uncertainty and discomfort

• Have the ability to motivate self and others

• Communicate effectively

• Can adapt to changing circumstances

• Are passionate about conservation work

Qualifications (This an entry level position)

Minimum Position Requirements

• Willing and able to complete all aspects of the program including conservation projects, training, and National Service as assigned

• Ability to live outdoors and work on a variety of conservation projects, which may include 12-hour days using chainsaws, hand tools, applying herbicide, moving through uneven terrain, etc. in a variety of environmental conditions.

• Commitment to personal and professional growth

• Able to lift up to 30 lbs. repeatedly and use hand tools

AmeriCorps Requirements (all below required)

• Be a United States citizen, U.S. national, or a lawful permanent resident alien of the United States.

• Be at least 18 years of age.

• Eligible to serve in an AmeriCorps State/National term. Please note that AmeriCorps rules limit the number of education awards an individual may earn. No member may earn more than the aggregate value of two (2) full-time education awards.

• It is a requirement to obtain a high school diploma or GED before one is eligible to use the education award.

• Selected candidates must undergo and pass a background check.

Members must supply their own personal outdoor gear and equipment such as a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, day pack, multi-day pack, work pants, work boots, etc. A recommended gear-list will be provided prior to starting the term of service. Some items may be available on loan if access to gear is a barrier to service with the UCC.

UCC provides project tools, personal protective gear, kitchen kit (stove, fuel, cooking and serving supplies for use by the crew while on hitch), and transportation to and from projects. Crew Members are eligible for pro-deals.

Why Join Us?

Through this experience, you will find a new level of hard work and determination by working long hours, oftentimes in challenging conditions. You’ll learn what it really means to be part of a team. You will create friendships and connections that will last a lifetime. In the end, you will gain the confidence and knowledge that you can and will conquer the hardest obstacles life throws at you.

Professional Development

This is an entry-level position. The UCC is a career exploration and development program. All Crew Members will be trained in safe and proper tool use and maintenance, conservation practices, backcountry skills, and outdoor living. Training topics and certifications may include chainsaw and hand tool use, project techniques, and first aid. Members will also have the opportunity to network with project partners, thereby developing possible future employment opportunities.

Service Terms and Compensation

UCC offers three options for crew members to serve. In the application process, you may select your choice and rank your preferences for field office.

Summer - 450 hour Term

• Dates: June 1 – August 15

• Minimum service hours: 450

• Living Allowance: $1,200 paid 2x per month; totaling $6,000 (note: this is taxable income)

• Segal AmeriCorps Education Award: $1,956.35 (available upon successful completion of term)

Summer + Fall - 900 hour Term

• Dates: June 1 – November 15

• Minimum service hours: 900

• Living Allowance: $1,255 paid 2x per month; totaling $13,805 (note: this is taxable income)

• Segal AmeriCorps Education Award: $3,697.50 (available upon successful completion of term)

Fall - 450 hour Term

• Dates: August 21 – November 15

• Minimum service hours: 450

• Living Allowance: $1,150 paid 2x per month; totaling $6,900 (note: this is taxable income)

• Segal AmeriCorps Education Award: $1,956.35 (available upon successful completion of term)

Benefits

• First Aid/CPR training

• USFS saw training

• Forbearance on qualifying student loans while in service

• Member Assistance Program (a mental wellness program)

• Uniform reimbursement: 900 hr. member - $100; 450 hr. member - $75