Conservation Corps - 2024 California Backcountry Trail Corps: Los Padres Recovery Corps Team

Schedule

September 30, 2024 - December 14, 2024

Position Summary

The 2024 Fall Los Padres Backcountry Trail Recovery Crew will focus on restoring trails damaged by the Dolan Fire and Willow Fire in the Monterey Ranger District of the Los Padres National Forest. A 10-member trail crew, led by 2 crew leaders, will work on a variety of trail restoration projects. The crew will begin to address approximately 71.9 miles of trail damage from the Dolan Fire and 4.5 miles from the Willow Fire, working in both accessible and remote backcountry locations. The projects will involve self-supported hitches, utilizing pack support where available, with support from the US Forest Service. This effort is part of a broader initiative to complete the restoration within four years, ensuring sustainable trail access and ecosystem recovery in the Ventana Wilderness and surrounding areas. Some examples of project may include repairing or reestablishing damage trail tread, brushing, logging out downed logs on the trail, and installing or repairing trail structures like retaining walls, check steps, creek crossings, and switchbacks.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Complete project tasks as assigned, contributing to backcountry trail work and restoration efforts; Fully engage in all work projects and community/team activities;
Assist the Project Leader with meal planning, emergency response plans, and logistical tasks;
Record work totals and create reports for agency partners;
Interface with the public and partner organizations in a manner that reflects positively upon the crew, the SCA, and agency partners.

Required Qualifications

Must have a passion for the outdoors and commitment to intensive crew living;
Willingness and physical ability to engage in manual labor in all weather conditions;
Desire to make a positive impact on the environment;

Preferred Qualifications

• Backpacking experience;
• Community service experience;
• Valid driver's license with a clean motor vehicle record;

Hours

40 per week

Living Accommodations

The crew should be prepared to camp in frontcountry and backcountry campsites throughout the duration of the program. SCA will provide group gear such as tents, kitchen supplies (like pots, pans, and stoves), and uniform items. Members will be expected to bring their personal items such as a sleeping bag, sleeping pad, clothing, and mess kit. The crew may get occasional stays in hotels while traveling between project sites.

Compensation

• $650 one-time round-trip travel allowance (paid with first pay check)
• $550 weekly living allowance;
• AmeriCorps eligibility (300-hour award, $1,565.08 education award)
  
  • All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
• All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

Additional Benefits

• Bear Safety
• Defensive Drive Training
• Wilderness First Aid Training
• AmeriCorps: Eligible/Required

Equal Opportunity Statement

SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members. SCA is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere in which people of diverse backgrounds and lifestyles may grow personally and professionally. The Student Conservation Association, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.

Physical requirements and working conditions specific to the position are available in the full job description.