Overview

Reports To: Regional Youth Program Manager

Classification: AmeriCorps Participant (entitled to benefit package offered to all AC participants)

Position Summary: The Youth Field Support Technician (FST) is an entry-level leadership development position focused on mentorship, outdoor conservation, and empowering teens. Operating under the supervision of the Youth Program Manager, the FST provides field visitation and logistical support to ensure safe, impactful youth development programming. FST’s build strong working relationships with youth program staff, crew leaders, project partners, and teenage participants, serving as a primary mentor to Youth Program Leaders in the field.

No prior technical conservation experience is required. The position begins with an intensive 2-month Leadership Development Program (LDP) within a regional office. During this training period, FST’s receive hands-on instruction in technical field skills, risk management, and leadership, providing the tools and space to discover and hone their personal leadership style and gain confidence in their technical and field skills. In mid-April, this position will transition to the Youth Program team where the FST will learn about youth specific policies and best practices, planning for the Youth Leader LDP,  and pre-season preparation in the weeks leading up to the season kickoff. 

The Youth FST will be called upon to lead or join an existing crew when necessary. This position will spend the majority of their time in the field, up to 9-days at a time, once the season is underway – visiting all crews to provide on the ground support, mentorship to leaders, and positive relationship building with youth crew members. In addition, providing logistical support during prep and de-rig days in collaboration with the Youth Program Staff team. 

This role is ideal for an adaptable, high-energy individual who enjoys spending time outdoors, is passionate about working with youth and teens, and thrives in a dynamic, evolving environment.

Programmatic Duties: 

• Participate in a Leadership Development Program (LDP) designed to gain hands-on technical skills, practice proactive risk management, and develop your personal leadership style.
• Collaborate with the Youth Program staff team to lead and deliver the 5-week Youth Program Leader LDP.
• Conduct regular 9-day field site visits to mentor Youth Leaders, support crew engagement, and resolve real-time field challenges—including behavior management, project scope shifts, and crew dynamic challenges.
• Promote a strong culture of care and safety; model and enforce all MCC policies, safety protocols, and operational guidelines across field operations.
• Build and maintain positive working relationships with MCC staff, project partners, youth participants, and leaders
• Coordinate pre and post-hitch logistics, including tool maintenance, inventory management, gear distribution, and vehicle maintenance needs in partnership with the Youth Program team.
• Collaborate with regional staff to support Crew Leaders with leadership or crew dynamic challenges. In some cases FSTs will help support regional crew debriefs, in conjunction with regional staff 

Administrative Duties: 

• Assist in maintaining accurate inventory and records 
• Complete and submit required reports and other paperwork in a timely manner 
• Provide information to staff for evaluation of Crew Leaders and Members; include 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 
• 21+ years old by the start date 
• Valid driver’s license, ability to pass a Motor Vehicle Records check 
• Experience working with teens
• 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 
• Effective written and oral communication skills 
• 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 9 days at a time 
• Commitment to completing term; available for duration of entire term of service
• Willingness to mentor Crew Leaders in constructive feedback and professional growth 

MCC is committed to being welcoming to all and encourages people of all backgrounds to apply. 

While this position description describes the general nature and level of service being performed by people assigned to this position, it 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 their normal responsibilities.