Overview

Reports to: Regional Youth Program Manager

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

Position Summary: The Youth Program Leader supports high school youth (ages 14–18) in successfully completing Montana Conservation Corps (MCC) natural resource and community service projects. This role provides on-site crew management, fosters positive group dynamics, and ensures a motivated, well-functioning team. Youth Program Leaders work in pairs to guide crews of 4–6 members on 9-day overnight “hitches”. Crews car camp for the duration of each session, often in remote locations, varied terrain, and all weather conditions. Flathead Youth Corps Leaders will NOT be on overnight projects. Leaders receive certifications such as Wilderness First Aid/CPR and Youth Mental Health First Aid, as well as training in leadership, youth engagement, and technical project skills. Leaders will apply these skills to mentor and support youth participants throughout the summer. 

Youth Program Leader pairs are supervised by the Youth Program Coordinator and further supported by the Youth Program Manager and Director. 

Project Duties: Duties may include building or maintaining trails, building fences, and habitat restoration, among many other types of conservation projects. 

Programmatic Duties: 

• Oversee implementation of all elements of the youth program, including facilitating program curriculum, strategies for fostering healthy crew dynamics, technical and camp-life skills 
• Provide guidance and support to youth members during day projects and overnight camping experiences. 
• Communicate and organize duties in conjunction with the partner/technical advisor and assure project completion 
• Respond to field challenges—including participant behavior management, project partner shifts, and providing feedback —to ensure smooth program delivery
• Ensure safety as the top priority during all MCC activities and projects and promote a culture of safety 
• Establish and maintain good working relationships with regional staff, members, project technical advisors, youth, and volunteers. 
• Promote a positive public image for the MCC by wearing the MCC uniform and acting in a professional and respectful manner at all times while representing MCC 

Administrative Duties: 

• Provide information for development and evaluation of Members; including both positive feedback and areas of potential improvement 
• Maintain accurate records, including timesheets, personnel, Member development, inventory, safety and project records  
• Complete and submit required reports and other paperwork in a timely manner 

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 (Driving an MCC vehicle is required) 

• Ability to eventually hike 3-20 miles per day in terrain that can be steep, rocky or uneven, often wearing a 45lb backpack

• while carrying tools 

• 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 

  • Flathead Youth Corps Leaders will NOT be on overnight projects 

• Commitment to completing term; available for duration of entire term of service 

• Passion for leading youth in an outdoor setting

Bonus Skills: 

• Experience serving youth ages 14-18 

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.