Field Leader - Region 8 Prescribed Fire Corps

Student Conservation Association • College Park, GA

14h • Onsite

About The Position

The 2027 USFS Region 8 Prescribed Fire Corps is a dynamic and exciting opportunity for those passionate about wildland firefighting. This SCA crew will consist of four crew members and one crew leader and will assist with prescribed burns and other projects alongside the U.S. Forest Service.

Requirements

• No prior wildland fire experience is required for this position
• Willingness to perform manual, physical labor for up to 12 hours per day, exposed to the elements, and carrying/lifting 40 pounds or more on a routine basis
• Experience working with youth or young adults.
• Pass the Work Capacity Test at the Arduous level (3 mile walk with 45lb weight vest that must be completed in 45 minutes or less).
• Undergo an in-person physical required by USFS. In-person physicals should be initiated by December 1, 2027, and cleared by the start of the program
• Wilderness First Aid certification, or ability to obtain a Wilderness First Aid certification before start of season
• Must attend Crew Leader training: 1/4 – 1/9/2027
• Minimum of 21 years of age
• US Work Authorization
• Valid driver’s license for 3+ years and MVR that meets SCA standards

Nice To Haves

• Experience teaching or with environmental education.
• Experience with conservation work skills or related skills – i.e., wildland firefighting, trail maintenance, trail construction, habitat restoration, chainsaw, carpentry, landscaping, gardening

Responsibilities

• Act as a Crew Lead: facilitating teamwork, managing field-based tasks, guiding crew dynamics under the operational supervision of permanent USFS overhead, addressing team issues and challenges in a timely manner
• Serve as an Advisor: mentoring personal and professional development, teaching environmental stewardship
• Act as a Project Manager: communicating regularly with SCA and USFS supervisors, ensuring successful and timely completion of work projects, upholding a positive representation of SCA, ensuring gear, team vehicle, equipment, and PPE are being maintained and used properly
• Perform tasks as a Program Administrator: organizing logistics, completing documentation and paperwork, managing a budget, and communicating with SCA staff
• Lead by example in the primary objective of this crew: fuels reduction, wildfire response, and prescribed burning projects
• Lead a team in additional projects, such as recreation or conservation tasks, as identified by USFS
• Work variable hours, possible long days and possible weekends, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, in varying weather conditions, and under physically demanding circumstances
• Monitor and be responsible for their well-being in these environments
• When conditions are not ideal for burning, crew will assist with other projects including vegetation removal, fire line preparation, and equipment maintenance
• Participate in networking and professional development opportunities

Benefits

• $850/week (pre-tax), paid bi-weekly
• Up to $1,000 travel stipend, to be used for travel to/from leader training, site location, and USFS Fire Academy
• Housing provided
• Meals provided during work days
• SCA uniform package
• Eligibility for a Public Land Corps Certificate for Noncompetitive Hiring Status

What This Job Offers

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