Wildland Fire Fellow

The Nature Conservancy•Carterville, IL

5d•Onsite

About The Position

Selected trainees in the Wildland Fire Fellowship work as part of the Southern Illinois Interagency Habitat and Fuels Crew for a term of up to two years. As part of our team, you’ll gain hands-on experience in the preparation and implementation of prescribed fire, wildfire suppression tactics and techniques, safely operating and maintaining equipment, invasive plant management, forest stand improvement, and other stewardship activities. Experience is complemented by a robust training program consisting of formal and informal training related to Fire and Aviation Management (FAM) and wholistic management practices used in the restoration and preservation of a large, varied and unique landscape. You’ll work alongside a cadre of mentors from The Nature Conservancy, US Forest Service, and others in growing your skills, knowledge, and connections for the next steps in your career.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED and 6 months of related experience/education.
Must be able to obtain the qualifications for Firefighter Type 2 (FFT2), including Introduction to ICS (IS-100), National Incident Management System (NIMS), an Introduction (IS-700), Human Factors on the Fire Line (L-180), Firefighter Training (S-130), and Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190), and one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2 as a requirement of this position.
Ability to pass the Work Capacity Test (pack test) at the Arduous Level by completing a 3-mile walk with a 45-pound weight vest in 45 minutes or less within first 90 days of hire.
Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g., First Aid, CPR, Pesticide Applicator).

Nice To Haves

Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
6 months - 1 year related experience.
Experience operating and maintaining various kinds of equipment.
Must have valid driver’s license and good driving record.
Ability and willingness to follow instructions from colleagues and partners.
This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program.

Responsibilities

Perform other stewardship activities when conditions are not conducive to prescribed fire.
Works in team forward, goal-oriented, and sometimes high-stress environment.
Works under close supervision.
Ability to perform physically demanding work in variable weather conditions, remote locations, hazardous environments, and terrain.
Complete a final project that addresses a problem or knowledge gap within Fire and Aviation Management and showcases skills learned and developed during the Fellowship.
Some projects and activities may require long days (10+ hour shifts), working weekends, and extended out-of-state travel.
Out-of-state assignments are optional and include prescribed fire assistance in the late spring, wildfire assignments in the summer, and training opportunities throughout the year.