Burn Crew Member

The Nature Conservancy•Tellico Plains, TN

10d•$20 - $21•Onsite

About The Position

The Burn Crew Member (BCM) participates in wildland fire operations, including ignition, control, mop-up, suppression, monitoring, and other assigned tasks. In Tennessee, the role supports the prescribed fire program, working alongside government agencies to improve forest health and resiliency through ecologically based prescribed burns in hardwood forests. The program typically assists with burning 10,000 to 25,000 acres per season. Crew members are responsible for the safe and effective implementation of prescribed burns, fire line preparation, and the use and maintenance of equipment. They work under a Burn Crew Manager, Burn Boss, or other command positions. The role also supports ongoing professional development, including staying current with burn techniques and equipment, maintaining or growing fire certification credentials, and building relationships in the professional fire community and local communities. Participation in wildland fire suppression with partner organizations and agencies may occur as a TNC employee, volunteer, or short-term employee of a partner entity. This is a seasonal, hourly position for the spring fire season, which runs from February through April. The position is based with squads near Tellico Plains or Crossville, Tennessee. The stated season dates are February 8 through April 16. Housing is provided for non-local employees. Work may occur in variable weather, remote locations, difficult and hazardous terrain, and physically demanding circumstances.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Must be able to obtain qualifications for Prescribed Fire Crew Member (RXCM) or Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2).
Must complete Introduction to ICS (I-100), Human Factors on the Fire line (L-180), Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190), and Firefighting Training (S-130).
Must complete one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2.
Must meet physical fitness standards determined by the local Prescribed Fire Manager and the TNC Fire Management Manual.
Experience operating various types of equipment.
Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required, such as First Aid, CPR, and a driver's license.
Must have a valid driver's license and comply with TNC’s Auto Safety Program.
Must complete a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.
Must meet TNC's background screening requirements.

Nice To Haves

Qualified as a Fire Fighter Type 2.
Faller 3 qualified.
ATV/UTV operator qualified.
Experience operating utility vehicles and water pumps.
Six months to one year of related experience.
Experience driving off-road, loading, and towing trailers.
Multilingual skills and multicultural or cross-cultural experience.
Ability and willingness to follow instructions from colleagues.
Updated Incident Qualification Card (Red Card).

Responsibilities

Participate in wildland fire operations, including ignition, control, mop-up, suppression, and monitoring.
Implement prescribed burns safely and effectively.
Prepare fire lines and use and maintain equipment.
Carry out assigned work under the direction of the Burn Crew Manager, Burn Boss, or other command positions.
Keep current with new burn techniques and equipment and maintain or grow professional fire certification credentials.
Build and maintain relationships in the professional fire community and local communities.
Participate in wildland fire suppression activities with partner organizations and agencies when applicable.
Include IQCS qualifications, training, and preferred locations in the resume.