Fire and Stewardship Crew Leader

The Nature Conservancy•El Dorado Springs, MO

11d•Onsite

About The Position

The Fire and Stewardship Crew Leader (FSCL) will work in a team environment and participate in prescribed fire operations which include ignition, control, post ignition operations, suppression, monitoring, and other tasks as assigned. The FSCL will participate and may lead teams of crew members in preparing fire lines, maintaining equipment, community health monitoring and other tasks. This FSCL will assist in and may guide a team conducting ecological stewardship practices such as woody encroachment reduction, invasive species control, and other preserve maintenance tasks. As part of the Crew Leader’s ongoing professional development, they will be responsible for keeping abreast of new burn techniques and equipment to enhance skills and maintain/grow professional fire certifications and stewardship credentials. In addition, they shall work to build and maintain relationships in the professional conservation community and in the local community where the Conservancy works. This may include participation in fire & stewardship activities in partnership with other non-profits and local, state, and federal agencies. The Crew Leader will be part of the Osage Plains Fire & Stewardship Team. This role with work with Fire & Stewardship Crew Members in the field with direction given by the Fire & Stewardship Coordinator in their respective region. The Crew Leader must have experience or capability to perform basic maintenance on hand tools, power equipment, vehicles, and trailers. They will perform preserve management duties when conditions are not conducive to prescribed fire, so being prepared for a flexible work schedule is necessary. The Crew Leader will be expected to perform heavy physical work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances. The Crew Leader will work in a high stress team environment and be able to independently lead crew members to complete fire & stewardship tasks. They should have conflict resolution and problem-solving skills. The Crew Leader should be prepared for crew housing, where crew members will be in proximity both during and after work hours. The Fire and Stewardship Crew Leader will be based out of El Dorado Springs, MO. The Crew Leader will be expected to travel statewide on occasion. Housing is provided. Camping may be necessary on occasion for short durations. Start date for the crew leader is flexible with a target date of June 8, 2026. The season will end November 20, 2026. But that's not all – your journey with us means continuous growth. Master new techniques and equipment to level up your skills and certifications. Plus, you'll build strong relationships within the fire community and local areas where we operate. Apply today to join TNC!

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent and 1-year training in a science-related field.
Ability to obtain qualifications for Prescribed Fire Crew Member (RXCM) or Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including Introduction to ICS (I-100), Human Factors on the Fire line (L-180), Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190), Firefighting Training (S-130), and one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2.
Achieve physical fitness standards as determined by the local Prescribed Fire Manager and the TNC Fire Management Manual.
Experience operating and maintaining various types of equipment.
Ability to obtain related licenses or certifications as required (e.g., First Aid, CPR).
Must have valid driver’s license and good driving record.
Ability and willingness to follow instructions from colleagues.
Compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program, including potential review of motor vehicle record and completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement.
Must be able to perform heavy physical work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
Must be able to work in a high stress team environment.

Nice To Haves

1-2 years of related experience
Multi-lingual skills and multicultural or cross-cultural experience
Experiences in leadership and problem-solving

Responsibilities

Participate in prescribed fire operations including ignition, control, post-ignition operations, suppression, and monitoring.
Lead teams in preparing fire lines, maintaining equipment, and community health monitoring.
Assist in and guide teams conducting ecological stewardship practices such as woody encroachment reduction, invasive species control, and preserve maintenance.
Stay updated on new burn techniques and equipment to enhance skills and maintain professional fire certifications and stewardship credentials.
Build and maintain relationships within the professional conservation community and local communities.
Participate in fire & stewardship activities in partnership with other non-profits and government agencies.
Perform basic maintenance on hand tools, power equipment, vehicles, and trailers.
Perform preserve management duties when conditions are not conducive to prescribed fire.
Lead crew members to complete fire & stewardship tasks independently.
Manage conflict and solve problems within the team.