Crew Member, SSP Rogue River

~ Northwest Youth Corps offers a challenging education and job-training experience that helps youth and young adults from diverse backgrounds develop the skills they need to lead full and productive lives. ~

Northwest Youth Corps was created in 1984 to offer teenagers an education-based, work experience modeled after the historic Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930's. In 1984, support from Oregon's forest products industry and grants from four northwest foundations, allowed NYC to start its' first program and serve 52 teens.

Today, we serve over 1,000 youth each year across a four state region. Additional program information can be found at our website. 

Position Overview

The Seasonal Stewardship Program (SSP) is an innovative AmeriCorps program designed to provide hands on training and experience to those interested in pursuing employment with conservation corps, land and water resource management agencies, and other outdoor careers. The SSP integrates team-based work projects, education, and on-site vocational training into an experience that prioritizes personal growth, and the development of conservation work skills. Crew Members will develop technical skills working on a variety of conservation projects while developing the soft skills needed to be successful in the outdoor industry.

SSP participants spend nine weeks camping, working and travelling together as a six person crew. You can expect to work on physically challenging conservation projects in any kind of weather, gaining hands on experience in the groundwork of stewardship. Each day, you will return to camp after work and participate in community activities, including meal prep, water collection and treatment, and tool maintenance, followed by a family style dinner. Evenings will be spent on various educational and recreational activities; including formal lessons taught by team members, group discussions, and stargazing around the campfire.

Responsibilities

• Work Project Participation – Crew Members will be part of a six person crew led by one staff member.
• Crew Members are responsible for the safe completion of assigned projects in a timely manner to predetermined specifications under the direction of their Crew Leader.
• They work closely with program staff and other participants, paying specific attention to safe work practices, proper tool use, work quality and efficiency.
• The SSP will work on high priority conservation projects for land management partners like the Forest Service, BLM, and Bureau of Reclamation.
• Some crews may be focused on construction of bridges and kiosks, while others may be focused on the restoration of at-risk landscapes and watersheds.
• Other projects may include fuels reduction or GIS mapping and survey.
• Each crew will have a project specialty and will receive training and certification appropriate to that theme.

Development and Education: 

• Crew Members participate in educational group discussions at least two times a week.
• An Individual Development Plan will be created by each member to foster self-improvement and reflection as the program progresses.

Qualifications

• 19—24 years old • High School Diploma, GED.
• Ability to lift 50 lbs, hike several miles, and be on feet for 8-10 hours per day.
• Positive mental attitude, flexibility and commitment to success.
• Excellent judgment.
• Ability to listen, give and take feedback, and learn constantly.
• Desire to go the extra mile to make a positive impact on oneself, others and the environment.
• Ability to pass a criminal history background check.
• Unemployed for one month prior to program start and qualifies for federal assistance (SNAP, TANF, OHP, etc).

~ Northwest Youth Corps is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Our core purpose is to provide opportunities for youth and young adults to learn, grow, and experience success. We believe diversity is a key source of strength for our communities, and we strive to create a safe and empowering environment for participants from a wide range of backgrounds and abilities. We are deeply invested in the success of youth and young adults of all races, ethnicities, gender identities, religions, sexual orientations, economic statuses, or other socio-cultural identifiers. ~