Heyburn/McCroskey State Parks – Environmental Steward & Interpreter

Expand your conservation career along the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene in the Pacific Northwest’s oldest state park!

Heyburn and McCroskey State Parks
Environmental Steward & Interpreter

Service Description/Position Summary:

Heyburn and McCroskey State Parks are seeking applicants for one 900-hour AmeriCorps positions who love the outdoors and are passionate about improving recreational, natural, historical, and cultural experiences and opportunities for others. In this position, our AmeriCorps member would ensure that our parks remain significant, accessible, and relevant to the citizens of Idaho and visitors from around the nation and world. They will achieve this through our four main program goals of:

• Enhancing park land
• Enriching educational opportunities
• Building volunteer capacity
• Strengthening community outreach

At Heyburn and McCroskey State Parks, our member will receive a comprehensive education in the parks system management and accomplish tasks that go far beyond an entry level park position. A member will accomplish this through:

• Creating and expanding and offering educational programs
• Developing and leading Heyburn and McCroskey’s interpretive program
• Creating cohesive volunteer program management materials
• Working alongside Park Rangers and other Park staff

Members are also engaged in direct land management through the enhancement of park lands by developing nature trails, managing invasive species, restoring native ecosystems, and conducting other outdoor activities. Our service terms take place amid the stunning scenery, dazzling waters, geologic wonders, and cultural history of Heyburn and McCroskey State Park.

 Member Activities/Duties:

Idaho State Parks AmeriCorps members are entrusted with accomplishing a variety of different tasks that will have a long lasting impact on the stewardship of Idaho’s State Parks. The duties will vary by park and service location, but are likely to include a variety of projects such as: restoring ecosystems through transplanting native plants; managing noxious invasive weeds; developing or improving trails systems; leading interpretive tours, nature walks, and hikes; improving and creating educational displays at visitor centers and interpretive trails; expanding service-learning opportunities for local students; planning and overseeing service days; recruiting for and managing volunteer programs; representing state parks at community events; hosting community events at our Parks; completing other projects that align your specific to your skill and interests with park needs.

Requirements:

• Must be at least 17 years of age.
• Must be U.S. citizen, national or lawful permanent resident.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
• Must possess high school diploma or equivalent, or commit to earning one prior to receiving award.
• Must be fluent in English.
• Must be able to commit to the full term of service for which they are applying.
• Must successfully pass fingerprint background check provided through PCEI.
• Must complete/submit necessary AmeriCorps paperwork & reports in a timely manner.
• Must commit to and attend and complete all PCEI AmeriCorps training and service requirements including orientation, trainings, team meetings and national service days.
• Must wear AmeriCorps uniform and/or appropriate identifiers and required safety gear while performing service or attending official events.
• Must have a cooperative manner and the ability to serve as part of a diverse team.
• Must have regular and reliable attendance and dependability.
• AmeriCorps members can enroll in multiple terms of service that add up to the value of two full-time education awards. You can also serve additional terms but will not receive an additional education award.

Member Qualifications and Preferred Skills:

• Experience working with children and young adults.
• Comfortable working in an office setting and outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Interpretation experience and/or experience leading groups independently.
• Experience with or willingness to learn safe use of hand and power tools: saw, loppers shovel, chainsaw, weed trimmer, etc.
• Knowledge of construction, plumbing and/or electrical trades
• Willingness to be an effective storyteller and to share information about projects you are involved with on social media.

Member Benefits Include:

• A taxable, monthly living allowance totaling $10,200 paid over the 5.5 month term of service.
• Upon successful completion of a term of service, eligible members receive an education award of $3,447.50 that can be used to repay qualified student loans or for further education in an accredited institution of higher learning, vocational or trade schools. The education award is taxed in the year that it is used.
• Loan forbearance (after successful completion of a term of service, AmeriCorps will pay the accrued interest on qualified loans, which is taxable.)
• Childcare allowance for those who qualify.
• Professional development, trainings and networking opportunities.
• Qualified individuals with disabilities and those from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. We provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals and conduct all activities in full accessible settings.
• On-site, in-park housing is available.

Project Location and/or Transportation Needs:

Use of personal vehicle is required for reliable travel to host site. Park vehicles are provided during working hours.

Dates of Service:

Full-time:  5 1/2 months, between March 2024 and August 2024 (specific dates are TBD).