Wildland Restoration Team Leader — Montana Conservation Corps - The University Of Illinois : Job Details

Gain professional job skills, become an effective leader, and launch your natural resource career! Montana Conservation Corps believes that through conservation service work and authentic connection, you can sharpen your ability to create change and join the next generation of leaders for a better world. At MCC, we focus on the growth of our participants, positively impacting our climate and environment, and transferable job skills.

Location: Bozeman, Kalispell, Missoula MTAges: 18-35 (21 or over preferred)Program Dates: 02/24/2025-10/23/2025Living Allowance: $1,360 biweekly ($2,720 p/month) before taxes are taken outAmeriCorps Education Award: $5,176.50 upon completion of the programHealth Insurance: Provided at NO COSTMember Assistance Program: Free 24/7 access to confidential behavioral health counseling, financial assistance, medical/legal advocacy, and more!Public Lands Service Corps Hiring Preference: Members serving with federal land management agencies may be eligible to receive hiring preference for future federal job placementSupportive coaching staff: invested in your success.Community Spaces: Access to two community spaces, Corps Members of Color and LGBTQIA2+ Corps Members, to build community, connection, and support during the season.Food Per Diem: while on ProjectsAccess to Pro Deals:Housing: options may be available in specific regions; talk with a Program Manager to learn more!

What you will do:As a Crew Leader (CL), you will oversee 3-4 adult crew members on 4-9 day overnight conservation projects on breathtaking landscapes in the Northern Rockies and Plains. Crew Leaders will facilitate crew member growth, manage conflict, and support the crew in completing quality project work in the field. Crews will camp for the full duration of a hitch (i.e., 4-9 day project assignment), oftentimes in remote locations on varied terrain and in all weather conditions.

Wildland Restoration Teams work with a diverse range of stakeholders (private, government, and non-profit) to achieve large-scale land conservation efforts with rural communities throughout Montana. This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in restoration to gain practical field experience in a rapidly growing area of conservation. Wildland Restoration Teams mitigate invasive plants through mechanical, chemical, and biological efforts, and MCC provides professional-level training in the safe use and transport of chemicals. Crew Leaders also earn Herbicide Applicator Licenses, a certification through the State of Montana that is vital to future careers in invasive management.

What you will get:As a Crew Leader, you will participate in a 3-month dynamic and immersive leadership development program crafted over two decades to enhance your confidence, resilience, and technical capabilities. You will engage in activities that help you explore communication styles, develop emotional intelligence, master conflict resolution, and learn facilitation techniques. You will also receive extensive technical training covering essential skills for outdoor professionals, including federally recognized certifications in chainsaw and crosscut use, defensive driving, and Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA).

Who we are looking for:MCC is a developmental program, and it is our job to teach, train, and develop leadership competencies in our participants. We encourage anyone to apply who has an interest in conservation and bettering themselves for the future.

What Qualities Make a Successful Crew Leader at MCC:

• A passion for service, the environment, and conservation.
• A positive mental attitude and seeing others with positive regard.
• Adaptability and flexibility.
• A commitment to serving the whole term.
• A growth mindset - coming willing to learn, grow, and challenge yourself.
• A commitment to motivating others and their success.
• A desire to hone your personal leadership style.

Qualifications:

• High school degree, GED, or willingness to work towards obtaining a GED
• Ages 18-35 (21 or over preferred)
• US Citizen, National or lawful permanent resident
• Ability to pass a National Service Criminal History Check
• Ability to hike 3-20 miles per day in steep, rocky or uneven terrain, often wearing a 45lb backpack
• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds repeatedly and use hand and power tools
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Ability to obtain Wilderness Advanced First Aid/CPR training (training is reimbursable; MCC provides training)
• Desire to serve the community and the environment
• Willingness to work long, hard 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 the entire term of service

Strongly Preferred Qualifications:

• Valid driver's license, ability to pass a Motor Vehicle Records check
• 21 years old on the start date of the program

Certifications (Depending on Position and Crew Type):

• First Aid & CPR
• Defensive Driving
• Chainsaw Certification
• Crosscut Certification

Training and Opportunities (Depending on Position and Crew Type):

• Training on Resume Building, Interviewing, and Federal Hiring
• Hand & Power Tool Use
• Backcountry Travel & Navigation
• Trail Maintenance & Construction
• Leave No Trace
• Habitat Management & Improvement
• Leadership, communication, and teamwork competencies
• Connect with project partners for career opportunities

MCC is committed to being diverse, welcoming, and inclusive. We encourage people of all backgrounds to apply.