Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) Crew Member

Northwest Youth Corps • Eugene, OR

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Help create robust urban forests that reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions to improve public health and well-being. Northwest Youth Corps is seeking young people aged 19-26 interested in a jobs-training and educational opportunity, working outdoors while making a positive impact on the South Puget Sound's urban forests. Work completed by this crew will help develop the urban tree canopy in areas deemed underserved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) crew members will work with four other members and one crew leader to complete urban forest health projects. Experienced field staff provide training and education on urban forestry projects, including tree planting and maintenance, wildfire fuels mitigation, invasive plant management, and tree surveying. Field staff will provide training and education for all projects. The work is physical and rigorous. Crews work in all weather and terrain and use a variety of hand and power tools in primarily urban areas. A key focus is building leadership and cooperation within the team. Prior experience is not necessary, and all training is provided, but maturity, teamwork, and openness to new challenges are vital.

Requirements

• 19-26 years old (age at enrollment)
• US citizenship or permanent residency
• High School Diploma, GED (NYC may waive this requirement and provide support under the condition that the GED exam is taken within 60 days of completing the session)
• Pass a background check
• Current First Aid/CPR certification, or applicants must obtain certification before their participation.
• Ability to arrive on time at the pre-designated meeting point during all training and service
• Desire to learn and grow
• Positive mental attitude, flexibility, and commitment to success
• Excellent judgment
• Consistent attendance and punctuality
• Ability to listen, give and take feedback
• Desire to go the extra mile to make a positive impact on oneself, others, and the environment

Nice To Haves

• Applicants in good physical condition, capable of working long hours on strenuous, labor-intensive projects are preferred as NYC's work projects often require heavy lifting, constant bending, digging, and long hikes to and from the worksite.

Responsibilities

• Complete urban forest health projects.
• Participate in tree planting and maintenance.
• Engage in wildfire fuels mitigation.
• Perform invasive plant management.
• Conduct tree surveying.
• Build leadership and cooperation within the team.

Benefits

• Total stipend of $7,680 (before taxes) dispersed in pro-rated monthly increments
• AmeriCorps Education Award of $1,956.35 upon successful completion of the service term
• Industry-recognized credentials and skills that can be added to their CV/Resume
• Training may cover: Brush Cutter Operation and Maintenance, Wood Chipper Operation, Driver (select members only) and Trailer Use, Tool Use and Maintenance, Native and Invasive Species Identification, Forestry Education (Tree Identification, Proper Tree Planting and Maintenance techniques, Common Health Issues in Trees, Surveying Techniques), OHSA Training
• Reimbursement (up to $35) for First Aid/CPR certification may be available upon completion of the session.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED