Community Wildfire Protection Corps Hitch Crew Member- (OR)

Northwest Youth Corps • Pendleton, OR

2d • Onsite

About The Position

CWPC is an innovative service program designed to provide hands-on training and experience. Our program integrates team-based work projects, education, and on-site vocational training into an experience that prioritizes personal development and Wildfire fuels reduction work skills. Participants work on physically demanding Community Wildfire fuels reduction projects in all kinds of weather and terrain creating defensible space around critical infrastructure and homes. While in session, crews will be responsible for completing wildfire fuel reduction projects. Saw work is within the scope of A-level certification, brushing and small diameter trees, and does not include felling of large trees. Our program is a highly structured immersive experience. We focus intentionally on the concept of community building within our crews, which means we focus on being present with one another and CWPC Crew members do not use cell phones or headphones during work hours (we intentionally "unplug"). Participants engage in many group activities each day to help the crew function, including tool maintenance, daily debriefs, formal educational sessions and more. Participants are actively mentored and empowered by their Crew Leader and expected to take on increasing leadership roles within the crew, including acting as a "leader of the day/week" by the end of the program. Through these challenging and rewarding experiences, our programs consistently help members become resilient, disciplined, empathetic and strong. A high value is placed upon interpersonal dynamics and the development of robust professional skill sets. CWPC Crew members assist in creating more resilient communities in the face of catastrophic wildfire.

Requirements

• 19-26 years old (age at enrollment).
• Desire to learn and grow.
• Positive mental attitude, flexibility and commitment to success.
• Excellent judgment.
• Ability to listen, give and take feedback.
• Desire to go the extra mile to make a positive impact on oneself, others and the environment.
• Current First Aid/CPR certification Or ability to obtain certification before their participation.
• Applicants must be in good physical condition; capable of working on strenuous, labor-intensive projects as training and work projects often require heavy lifting, constant bending, digging, and long hikes to and from the worksite, be on foot for 8-10 hours per day, and possibly be exposed to natural hazards such as poison oak.
• The applicant must frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds (with or without reasonable accommodation).
• Applicants must be comfortable working in austere outdoor environments which include but are not limited to working in weather conditions that include rain, wind, snow, wet, cold, dry, and hot conditions, and varying temperatures.

Nice To Haves

• Outdoor experience.
• Ability to work collaboratively and promote teamwork.
• Developed communication skills.
• Good judgment and decision-making skills.
• Sense of humor, spirit of adventure, and desire to make a positive difference in the lives of others and the community.
• Comfortable working with diverse populations.

Responsibilities

• Safety is the number one priority in everything we do, including work, education, and recreation.
• Work Project Participation: CWPC Crew members will be part of a crew with up to 5 Crew members, led by one CWPC Crew Leader. Crew members are responsible for the completion of assigned projects under the direction of their Crew Leader. They work closely with program staff and other participants, paying specific attention to safe workplace practices, proper tool use, work quality, and efficiency.
• Development and Education: Crew members participate in informal and formal educational discussions. A Participant Success Plan will be created by each member to foster self-improvement and reflection throughout the program.
• Committing to being of service to the community and the crew is essential.
• Support and take part in a welcoming and supportive community.
• Represent and promote Northwest Youth Corps commitment in workforce development and growth, planning, and decision making.

Benefits

• A total living stipend of $9000 (before taxes come out) will be pro-rated and paid monthly. Compensation includes meals and camping accommodations during workdays.
• 450-hour AmeriCorps term earning $1,956.35 education award will be earned at the end of a successfully completed service term.
• Training/Professional Development, this comprehensive training may cover the following topics and more: NYC Leadership Philosophy OHSA Courses Intro to home ignition zone USDA Chainsaw Operation and Maintenance Brush Cutter Operation Power Pole Saw Operation Wood Chipper Operation Driver training and Trailer Use Tool Use and Maintenance Defensible Space Training Work Site Analysis Conservation Education Risk Management and Safety Procedures Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Behavior Management Time Management Anaphylaxis training Introductory online Wildland Firefighter courses may also be completed during the session: IS-100, IS-700, S-130, S-190, L-180.
• By completing the above course requirements, you will be eligible to complete a pack test (i.e. Red Card). Having your "Red Card" will qualify you to be employed as a Wildland Firefighter (NWCG Firefighter 2).
• CWPC Crew members can gain industry-recognized credentials and skills that can be added to their CV/Resume. These will assist Crew members in gaining access to natural resource related careers.
• Safety Equipment provided during the program: 2 x field work shirts, eye protection, ear protection, hard hat and sawyer chaps.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed