Queer Restoration Crew (LGBTQ+ Inclusion)
We are seeking (5) AmeriCorps members for the Queer Restoration Crew (LGBTQ+ Inclusion Crew) based in Las Vegas, NV. Gain valuable field experience while completing habitat improvement, restoration, and recreation projects with the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, the National Park Service, and many other federal and state agencies. Learn firsthand from federal employees and specialists about natural resource and conservation careers. Projects may include trail construction and maintenance, hazardous fuels reduction, and habitat restoration.
Single-identity or affinity crews are designed to open access to careers in environmental conservation for individuals systematically excluded from opportunities in this field. The goal of this program is to give participants career focused training in an inclusive space to learn and develop alongside peers, leadership, and staff with whom they have shared experience.
The ideal candidate will enjoy working outdoors in challenging conditions, have prior experience camping, and share the belief that everyone should feel safe and included in the conservation community. They will also share the mission to be a part of an affirming crew culture with members of diverse identities, experiences, and backgrounds. LGBTQ+ individuals of all identities are encouraged to apply.
Essential Duties:
- Exemplify strong work ethic, professionalism, and sound judgment;
- Communicate effectively with a small team and work collaboratively to ensure project completion and quality
- Understand and abide by all NCC policies and procedures;
- Camp in remote locations for up to 7 nights with limited facilities
- Drive a 4x4 work vehicle safely and on rugged terrain
- Willingness to be flexible to changing work environments
Contract Timeline:
*subject to change and depend on service term length desired*
Start date: October 2022 - January 2023
End date: December 2022 - March 2023
Location: Las Vegas, NV
Compensation and Benefits: This is an AmeriCorps position; candidates will receive a living allowance dependent on their length of service. The living allowance is a fixed amount, not an hourly wage or a salary. The allowance is paid to members in biweekly installments throughout their term of service. Upon completion of AmeriCorps service members shall receive an additional education award also dependent on the length of service that can be used for paying off student loans or paying tuition for a Title IV accredited college.
•Living Allowance: approximately $800 every two weeks before taxes
•Per Diem:$15/day spent in the field. This is in addition to your Living Allowance and on average is $120.00 biweekly. Crews typically combine per diem funds and shop/prepare meals as a team.
•TOTAL COMPENSATION BIWEEKLY: $920 (pre-tax)
Segal Education Award:
After successfully completing an AmeriCorps term of service members are eligible to receive the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award. For this term of service the education award amount will vary depending on the length of service term. Education award amounts for this position range from $1,374.60 - $3,247.50. You can use the award to repay qualified student loans and to pay current educational expenses at eligible institutions of higher education and training programs.
Student Loan Forbearance:
If you are currently paying on any federal student loans you have the option to put those loans into forbearance during your time as an AmeriCorps volunteer, that will allow you to cease payments while serving.
Interest Accrual Repayment:
As AmeriCorps alum, you are eligible to have the National Service Trust pay all or a portion of the interest that accumulated on your qualified student loan(s) during your term of service. These payments are made in addition to the Education Award, and are not deducted from your Education Award balance. To be eligible to have accrued interest paid: The loan must have been placed in forbearance for the service period, and you must have successfully completed a term of service and received an Education Award.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Eligibility:
AmeriCorps Volunteers qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
Insurance:
Limited Health, Dental and Vision Insurance will be completely paid for at no cost to you by the Great Basin Institute.
Job Qualifications:
- Must maintain a positive and professional attitude at all times while providing service.
- Be able to communicate effectively with members, crew leaders, NCC staff, and project partners.
- Possess the willingness and ability to work and camp up to seven nights in a row, in a wilderness setting, in all weather conditions, without formal restroom facilities or running water.
- Be able to lift 25lbs continuously and 50lbs occasionally
- Be at least 17 years of age
- Be a US citizen
- Must possess a high school diploma or GED
- Must be eligible to receive an AmeriCorps Education Award (limit of four in a lifetime or the equivalent of two full-time education awards).*All position offers are conditional upon completion of an acceptable check of the National Sex Offender Public Registry and federal criminal background check.
Training and Certifications:
- S-212 chainsaw training (and opportunity for certification)
- WFA & CPR
- Off-road driver training
- GIS/GPS training
- Federal career, applications & resume workshop with agency staff
- Opportunities to connect with queer NPS & federal employees