ACE Conservation Crew Member, Caribbean Crew

U.S. Virgin Islands Conservation Crew Member

Summary:

The American Conservation Experience, a nonprofit Conservation Organization, is seeking Crew Members to serve with the National Park Service, Department of Natural Resources, US Fish and Wildlife, and potentially other partners, to complete various conservation projects . These opportunities are intended for enthusiastic local individuals with a passion for conservation who possess an interest in gaining experience in the field of trails and habitat restoration.

Start Date: September 2024

Estimated End Date: February 2025 (extension likely)

*A minimum 6 month commitment required*

Location: St. Croix, US Virgin Islands with possible projects taking place on Buck Island.

Scheduling: 5 days a week (Monday to Friday) 6:30 am to 3:00 pm is the designated project schedule, with 30 minutes for lunch and two 15 minute breaks.

Compensation: ACE Crew Members are expected to contribute 40 hours/week and will receive a living allowance of $600/week, paid bi-weekly.

Members obtain an Education Award for the amount of $3,447.50 upon successful completion of 900 hours of service.

AmeriCorps members may also be eligible for qualifying child care coverage and federal loan forbearance. Additional enrollment steps are required.

Gear: Weather can be highly variable, so plan on bringing layers of warm clothing, sun protection, and adequate rain gear. Members will have access to deeply discounted Pro Deals via Outdoor Prolink once they are offered and accept a position, and will have the opportunity to purchase discounted gear prior to their arrival.

Position Description: Work will mainly focus on trail construction, maintenance, repair, and/or rerouting, as well as habitat restoration work such as invasive species control and/or planting work. Work includes but is not limited to repairing and maintaining recreational trails, repairing and maintaining erosion control features, removing or controlling invasive vegetation, planting and/or seeding of native plant species.

Qualifications: Candidates must be between the ages of 18-30 (up to 35 for military veterans) to qualify for an AmeriCorps education award. Ideal candidates hold, or are pursuing, a minimum of a high school diploma and/or have experience in subject areas such as vegetation management, trail maintenance, or other relevant work. However, all who are interested are recommended to apply.

ACE Crew Members must be willing to represent ACE and the partner organization in a professional, positive, and enthusiastic manner. Drug users should not consider applying, as ACE reserves the right to require drug testing.

*Preference Will be Given to Local Residents of St.Croix from the Surrounding Communities*

Required:

• U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident.
• Must be 18-30 years of age or up to 35 for military veterans.
• Proficient in English.
• Must be willing to work hard and bring a good attitude to the effort.
• Ability to work alone and in a group.
• Ability to undergo a federal criminal background check is required.
• Ability to arrive at the work site at 6:30 am Monday-Friday.
• 92% Attendance- Time off will be permitted for personal days with prior approval or sick time with documentation for 2 days in succession (Unexcused absences will not be tolerated).

Preferred:

• Have a positive, can do attitude.
• Experience with trail maintenance, invasive species, or vegetation management.
• Experience with tools such as brush cutters, chainsaws, axes, etc.
• Previous experience and historic preservation
• Is comfortable working outside in varying weather conditions
• Have a willingness to work hard and get dirty
• Have a serious attitude toward safety all day, every day
• Have the ability to think critically and creatively
• Have ability to communicate effectively
• Have a professional and respectful manner and works well within a team

Physical Demands, Work Environment and Working Conditions:

• Physical Demands: Requires frequent sitting, standing, walking, hiking, carrying, using hands to handle or feel, reaching with hands and arms, talking and hearing. Manual dexterity required for use of various tools or equipment. Required to stoop, kneel, climb stairs, and/or crouch. Ability to hike over rough terrain, and camp overnight under field conditions.
• Vision Requirements: Close, distance, peripheral and depth perception vision as well as the ability to focus may be required.
• Weight Lifted or Force Exerted: Frequently moves up to [25] lbs., ability to move up to [60] pounds.
• Environmental: Outdoor and indoor conditions. Work environment conditions can change frequently; working under adverse weather conditions and in various climates.
• Noise Environment: Moderate to high noise such gas-powered chainsaws and other hand and power tools.
• Travel: This position requires domestic travel.

Environmental Conditions/Hazards: The ACE member(s) may encounter environmental conditions/hazards including extreme heat or cold, rocky terrain, swamp or wetland conditions, biting insects, and potentially dangerous wildlife. The member is expected to conduct duties in a safe and orderly manner so as not to endanger self, fellow staff/members or resources.

The member must be willing to represent ACE and AmeriCorps in a professional, positive, and enthusiastic manner. ACE has a zero tolerance policy for illegal drugs and underage drinking. ACE reserves the right to require drug testing.

To Apply: Please submit a thoughtful resume, complete a motivational statement (instructions are provided when applying) OR upload a cover letter, and provide at least 2 references that are either professional or from a community leader (eg colleagues, teachers, counselors, religious leaders, career advisors). Navigate to our usaconservation dot org website to view other listings, and use the APPLY NOW section located on the upper right hand corner of the position listing to apply using ACE's online application portal.

NOTE: Early consideration will be given as resumes are received. This position may close at any time. If you have any questions regarding this position please feel free to contact ACE Eastern Director, Joost Besijn.

ACE participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information when you are hired to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

EEO: Employment with ACE is based upon ability, qualifications, attitude, and job-related factors. Every qualified employee or applicant has the same opportunity for recruitment, hire, training, transfer, promotion, compensation, demotion, termination, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, national origin, pregnancy, ancestry, citizenship status, genetic information (including of a family member), veteran or military status, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, medical condition, marital or parental status, political affiliation, ethnicity, hair texture or style, arrest record, caste, hereditary status, endogamy, or any other classification protected by applicable local, state, or federal law.

Current Openings for ACE Conservation Crew Member, Caribbean Crew Jobs at American Conservation Experience - CREW