Crew Member Positions

Reports to: Regional Program Manager

Classification: AmeriCorps Participant (This position is entitled to the benefits package offered to all AmeriCorps positions)

Position Summary: The Crew Member (CM) will assist in the successful completion of MCC natural resource and community service projects. This is not a 9-5 job, rather a commitment to service and an experience where long hours and extended time away from your home base are to be expected. Crews will camp for most of their terms, oftentimes in remote  locations in varied terrain and in all weather conditions. CMs are expected to participate in all elements of  the MCC program to the best of their ability, performing designated crew role functions and maintaining a  positive attitude throughout the program. The CM will also establish and maintain a good working relationship  with partner personnel, Crew Leaders, MCC staff and any volunteers who come into contact with the  crew. 

Project Duties: Not all CMs will serve on all types of projects. Project & Crew types may shift during the season.

• Wildland Restoration Teams: Identification, treatment and inventory of invasive plant species. Utilizing chemical, mechanical and biological treatment techniques. Projects may include chainsaw use. Wetlands and habitat restoration projects: including managing invasive plants through herbicide application, seed collection, and/ or various stream restoration techniques listed below. Projects are often rigorous, requiring participants to carry a heavy backpack sprayer in hot weather across rugged terrain while wearing protective gear.
   
• Wildland Restoration Teams - Mesic/Stream Restoration (Helena) participate in stream restoration utilizing  low-tech process-based restoration techniques (LTPBR).  LTPBR implements a variety of in-stream structures,  for a simple, effective, and non-invasive approach to riparian restoration. One of the common structures MCC builds are beaver dam analogs (BDAs), which are hand-built, temporary human-made structures designed to mimic the form and function of natural beaver dams. This effectively slows down and spreads water over the landscape to expand critical habitat, mitigate wildfire, reduce invasive species and increase water availability in traditionally parched times of year. In addition to in-stream restoration, crews may also participate in riparian re-vegetation efforts and the early detection and rapid response to plant invaders. This position is based in Helena, MT with extensive travel throughout the central & eastern part of the state required.

Duties may also include building or maintaining trails, treating or removing invasive species, building fences, operating chainsaws to reduce wildfire risks by thinning trees, among many other types of projects.  Crews may be deployed for natural disaster relief. 

Programmatic Duties:

• Ensure safety is the top priority during all MCC activities and projects; promote a ‘culture of safety’
• Accomplish project goals to the standards and satisfaction of MCC, Crew Leaders, and project partners/technical advisors
• Follow all MCC policies and procedures contributing to the overall functioning of the crew and creating a healthy and supportive crew environment
• Perform designated crew roles.
• Willingly participate in all elements of the MCC Member Development program, education, and crew activities to the best of their ability
• Promote a positive public image for MCC by wearing the MCC uniform and acting in a professional and respectful manner at all times
• Attend, assist, or lead MCC service days and other MCC events
• Fulfill other program-specific requirements such as those focused on civic engagement
• Serve alongside youth and adult volunteers on projects and provide leadership when possible
• Exhibit a strong and positive service ethic throughout the term of service

Administrative Duties:

• Complete and submit required reports and other paperwork in a timely manner
• Provide information for evaluation of Crew Leaders, including both positive feedback and areas of potential improvement

Qualifications:

• High school degree, GED, or willingness to pursue obtaining a GED
• US Citizen, National, or Lawful Permanent Resident
• Ability to pass a National Service Criminal History Check
• Ages 17-30, up to 35 for veterans
• Ability to hike 3-12 miles per day in terrain that can be steep, rocky or uneven, often wearing a 45lb backpack while carrying tools and sometimes backpacking with full packs of 60-70lbs
• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds repeatedly and use hand and power tools
• Strong service ethic and desire to serve the community and the environment
• Willingness to serve long hours in all weather conditions
• Ability to be away on overnight trips for up to 10 days at a time
• Commitment to completing term; available for duration of entire term of service

This position description is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. All Montana Conservation Corps positions may be required to perform duties outside of those listed.