Invasives Strike Force Member/Leader

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Trail Conference Conservation Corps (TCCC) provides opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to become leaders in environmental conservation. Industry experts train our AmeriCorps crews in sustainable trail building, invasive species management, public outreach, volunteer engagement, and outdoor leadership to provide vital resources to the parks you enjoy. Corps Members will receive a living stipend for their service and are eligible for education awards through our partnership with AmeriCorps.

POSITION SUMMARY

The TCCC Invasives Strike Force (ISF) crew mitigates ecological damage by employing the most effective techniques to stop invasive species from spreading in southern NY. Crew members spend most of their time managing invasive plants and collecting data in the field and will also gain office experience processing data and writing reports. Invasives management will include both manual and chemical methods and members will become NY Pesticide Apprentices. The ISF crew implements the regional strategy of the Lower Hudson Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management by surveying areas for new invaders to the region and responding quickly to priority species using best management practices. Members work with a wide range of Project Partners at multiple sites throughout southern NY and will be supported by the Terrestrial Invasive Species Project Manager and the LH PRISM Coordinator.

LOCATION

Lower Hudson Valley Region of New York

TERM OF SERVICE

(There are multiple options for service, but priority will be given to those who can serve 900 hours)

• Three-Quarter Time (3QT): Minimum of 1,2000-hours service term, April 3rd through November 15th 
• Half-Time (HT): Minimum of 900-hours service term, May 9th through October 25th
• Reduced Half Time (RHT): Minimum of 675-hours service term, May 22nd through September 26th
• Quarter Time (QT): Minimum of 450-hours service term; May 22nd through August 16th

Work week is Wednesday through Sunday. Weekend work is required. Members must take a 1/2-hour lunch which does not count toward service hours. This outdoor position includes a variety of weather conditions. Members are required to wear a provided uniform.

BENEFITS AND COMPENSATION

(The Trail Conference greatly values the Corps Members’ experience, in parentheses are approximate values of the training and service that will be provided)

• Free rustic, lakeside housing within Harriman State Park provided from May 9th-October 27th; Some work will be done outside of the above timeframe ($909 per month)
• Bi-weekly pre-tax living allowance of:
• 3QT: $1,093.75, or $17,500 total
• HT: $958.33, or $11,500 total (returning members $1,041.67; $12,500 total)
• Eligible for an AmeriCorps education award upon successful completion of the term totaling:
• 3QT: $4,826.50
• HT: $3.447.50
• Certification in Wilderness First Aid/CPR/AED ($285), Leave No Trace (Two Day Trainer Course $100), and NY Pesticides (Apprentice Certification $1,000)
• Networking and career development opportunities with environmental professionals including one-on-one resume workshops ($250)
• Training and experience in leadership, teaching, working with volunteers, public outreach, and teamwork
• Opportunity for qualified student loan deferment and interest repayment
• Eligible for SNAP benefits ($245.88 per month)
• Travel Stipend ($74 bi-weekly)
• Total Approximate Value of Stipend, Education Award, and Services:
• 3QT: $32,112.50
• HT: $23,945.75 (returning members $24,945.75)

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct surveys and manual and chemical invasives management in natural areas
• Keep accurate and detailed records of activities by collecting and processing data and writing reports
• Prepare maps utilizing ArcPro, ArcOnline, and GPS data collected in the field via the Field Maps app
• Educate the public by leading invasive species removal volunteer workdays
• Learn and follow applicable techniques, rules, and regulations for pesticide application
• Members may not engage in any Prohibited Activities as outlined in the Member Service Agreement
• Leader Only Specifcs: 
  • Assist Project Manager with pre- and post-season responsibilities, including planning, preparation of summary sheets, field work, partner coordination, acquiring permits, participating in working groups, and data and report finalization
  • Oversee crew of six members, often independently after training, to encourage good work ethic, provide support, ensure safety protocols are followed, delegate tasks, and ensure quality control
  • Track inventory and alert Project Manager if supplies need to be replenished or equipment is broken

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Capacity to conduct physically strenuous field work daily, hiking up to 4 miles carrying up to 30 lbs of equipment over rugged terrain and strenuous environmental conditions
• Experience or interest in plant identification and management
• A valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle for transportation to field sites

ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS

An individual must be at least 18 years of age; have a high school diploma or GED; be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien; pass a three-part national service criminal history check of the national sex-offender registry, state repository check, and FBI fingerprint check; and complete all pre-service orientation and training requirements. Documentation of age, education, and citizenship are due by the first day of orientation. Criminal history checks will be initiated before the start of service; an individual will be ineligible if s/he is required to register on the National Sex Offender Registry, has been convicted of murder, or fails to disclose any previous conviction. Other convictions or pending charges will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis in accordance with program policy.

The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference provides equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status or any other protected category under federal, state and local law. We pledge to uphold equality in our hiring and employment practices and create an environment where everyone from any background can do their best work.