Crew leaders manage and supervise conservation crews of four young adults, ages 19 and up, over the course of an 8 week session. Though schedules can vary, most crews will conduct project work Monday through Friday throughout their 8-week experience. On Saturday and Sunday, crews conduct resupply, shower, do laundry and participate in recreational activities (e.g., a hike). While on hitch, crews spend work days together and evenings in camp. While on hitch, field staff will be responsible for completing a variety of hands-on, conservation-oriented projects on public and private lands, and implementing a highly structured camp experience, including facilitation of group meals and outdoor education curriculum. Crew leaders are balanced individuals who must possess an inspirational charisma, embodying compassion and patience. In many ways our leaders teach our participants how to navigate a challenging work and social environment with grace and positivity.

This seasonal position not only allows crew leaders to deliver an impactful, educational experience to young people in their communities, but can also provide an entry-point into the fields of natural resource management, youth development, and outdoor education.

Staff Training/Professional Development

All Leaders will be provided comprehensive training that covers:

• USDA Chainsaw operation and maintenance
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
• NYC Leadership Philosophy
• Behavior Management
• Basic Trail maintenance and Construction
• Time Management
• Crew Management and Motivation
• Driver Training
• Conservation Education
• Tool Use and Maintenance
• Risk Management and Safety Procedures
• Anaphylaxis training

Duties and Responsibilities:

Leadership and Mentorship – Leaders manage, supervise, and participate in all aspects of crew work from hauling rocks to stacking brush. The leader maintains discipline, resolves conflicts, and establish/maintains crew morale.

Leaders provide formal and informal feedback to corps members with specific attention to work productivity and quality and teamwork. Crew leaders work to empower participants to build the skills necessary to lead the crews themselves. Crew leaders receive feedback on their performance and are challenged to develop their own leadership skills within this program.

Safety and Risk Management – Oversee the physical and emotional safety of program participants at all times. Safety is the number one priority in everything we do, including work, education, and recreation. This includes not only the physical safety of participants but their mental and emotional safety as well. Leaders will be responsible for transporting the crew and equipment, to and from the worksite daily, safely in ICC’s fleet vehicles.

Project Management & Implementation – Leaders are responsible for safely completing conservation projects by training, working with and supervising crews over 40 hours/week. Developing skills and effectively delegating responsibilities to make your crew as efficient as possible is critical to successful leadership in our programs. Leaders serve as the principal liaison between project sponsors and members of the local community. In the field, leaders provide direction to their crew with specific attention to safe work practices, proper tool use, work quality, and productivity. Crew leaders are mentors and role models, setting the pace and tone of the project site. This position is physically, emotionally, and mentally demanding. Leaders will lift heavy loads, walk long distances, and should expect to find each project physically challenging.

Education – Leaders implement daily lessons based on NYC’s education curriculum (SEED), which incorporates environmental education, life skills development, nutrition and health, and job readiness credentials. Crew leaders track participant’s progress throughout the program. Crew leaders are encouraged to bring their own skills and experiences to the education curriculum and use natural surroundings to capitalize on teachable moments.

Required Qualifications:

• Sense of humor, spirit of adventure, and desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others and the environment
• At least 21 years old
• Current Wilderness First Aid (or higher) and CPR certification
• Current Driver’s License
• Clean driving record for the past three years (Driver’s License Background Check required)
• Recreational/professional outdoor experience
• Excellent organization and time management skills
• Ability to lift and/or move up to 70 pounds and backpack 12 miles
• Willingness and ability to frequently drive an ICC vehicle
• Ability to work collaboratively and promote teamwork
• Good judgment and decision-making skills
• Experience/desire in working with diverse populations
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job