NC Coastal Plain Burn Crew Member

The Nature Conservancy • Wilmington, NC

35d • $19 • Onsite

About The Position

The Burn Crew Member (BCM) participates in wild land fire operations which include ignition, control, mop-up, suppression, monitoring, and other tasks as assigned. As part of the BCM’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 certification credentials. In addition, they shall work to build and maintain relationships in the professional fire community and in the local community where the Conservancy works. This may include participation in wildland fire suppression activities in partnership with other non-profits, local fire departments, and local, state and federal agencies, tribal or indigenous, either as a TNC employee, or as a volunteer or short-term employee of the partner entity (such as an administratively determined, short term federal employee). They may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances. The NC Coastal Plain Burn Crew Member participates in preserve operations, restoration, maintenance, and management. This may include the following functions: Participates in prescribed fire activities, which may include: burn unit prep, fire operations, managing staff and volunteers, maintenance of equipment and supplies, mop-up, and monitoring. When weather is not conducive to prescribed fire, the crew member will participate in longleaf pine restoration such as timber stand improvement, thinning, planting, monitoring and other projects. Assists in maintaining preserves and buildings, which may include maintaining tools and equipment, repairing fences and gates, posting boundaries, and maintaining grounds and structures at historical sites. Works in a high stress team environment. Works under close supervision. Ability to perform heavy physical work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances. The Burn Crew Member may assist on prescribed fire operations in other parts of the Coastal Plain with federal, state, or private partners, or travel to other areas of the state or out-of-state to assist other TNC programs or partners on prescribed or wildland fires. There are 3 fire crew member positions available and are based in Wilmington, NC from May – August. Some overtime may be allowed. Housing is provided.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Must be qualified as a Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including Introduction to ICS (I-100), Human Factors on the Fire line (L-180), Introduction to Wild Land Fire Behavior (S-190), Firefighting Training (S-130), and one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2 . See TNC Fire Management Manual .
• Must achieve physical fitness standards as set by local Fire Manager and the TNC Fire Manual and be able to pass an arduous pack test (walk 3 miles in under 45min with a 45lbs weight vest).
• Experience operating various types of equipment, preferably including chainsaws, ATVs/UTVs, T6 Engines, and tractors.
• Must have valid driver’s license and good driving record.
• Ability and willingness to follow instructions from colleagues.
• This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program . Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers."
• Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

Nice To Haves

• May be required to obtain related licenses and certifications such as CPR and herbicide application.
• Multi-lingual skills and multicultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
• 6 months-1 year of related experience.

Responsibilities

• Participates in wild land fire operations which include ignition, control, mop-up, suppression, monitoring, and other tasks as assigned.
• Responsible for keeping abreast of new burn techniques and equipment to enhance skills and maintain/grow professional fire certification credentials.
• Work to build and maintain relationships in the professional fire community and in the local community where the Conservancy works.
• Participates in prescribed fire activities, which may include: burn unit prep, fire operations, managing staff and volunteers, maintenance of equipment and supplies, mop-up, and monitoring.
• Participate in longleaf pine restoration such as timber stand improvement, thinning, planting, monitoring and other projects.
• Assists in maintaining preserves and buildings, which may include maintaining tools and equipment, repairing fences and gates, posting boundaries, and maintaining grounds and structures at historical sites.

Benefits

• TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED