Americorps Conservation Intern Underwood Conservation District

This position is in partnership with the Northwest Service Academy (NWSA), an AmeriCorps program of ESD112. NWSA's mission is to preserve and restore the natural environment, and to develop community leaders through service and community partnerships.

Project Sponsor: Underwood Conservation District

Position Overview:

2 key goals stand out for the Intern position: 1) Provide natural resource conservation education to young students and adult landowners, including lessons on water conservation, water quality, native plants, firewise principles, livestock management, and forestry. Year-round, 50% of time. 2.) Assist UCD staff in planning and conducting natural resource conservation projects such as tree planting, weeding, streambank stabilization, fuels reduction work, riparian fencing and off-stream watering facilities. Year-round, 50% of time.

Responsibilities:

1. Coordinating efforts of one watershed enhancement committee, the Jewett Creek Streamkeepers;
2. Providing educational assistance to local schools in watershed educational activities;
3. Community outreach efforts, helping community members become more aware of resource values in their communities;
4. Helping to perform monitoring of water quality/quantity in Underwood Conservation District watersheds;
5. Assisting in on-the-ground restoration activities; and
6. CAP project and other miscellaneous duties.
7. Attend and complete all NWSA/AmeriCorps training and service requirements including orientation, trainings, team meetings and national service days.
8. Complete and submit all necessary NWSA/AmeriCorps paperwork and reports in a timely manner.
9. Wear an NWSA uniform and/or appropriate identifiers and required safety gear while performing service or attending official events.

Qualifications: 

Position Requirements:

1. Must have a valid driver's license, clean driving record and ability to provide documentation.
2. The member will be required to drive standard size pickups with standard (stick shift) transmission
3. Ability to hike for extended periods in rough terrain, including steep, forested mountains, and wading in mountain streams, at times in adverse weather conditions (rain or snow).
4. Physical ability to perform strenuous outdoor work such as tree planting, weed removal, and moderate lifting/carrying gear in a backpack.
5. Desire to serve with others to promote education, environmental stewardship and an ethic of service.
6. Ability to attend local meetings, and occasionally work on evenings and weekends.
7. Ability to work with others in a team environment.
8. Represent the Underwood Conservation District and Northwest Service Academy in a positive, professional manner with various populations such as: project partners, colleagues, community volunteers, students and the general public.
9. 21 years of age or older, at beginning of service term.
10. U.S. citizen, national or lawful permanent resident.
11. Possession of a high school diploma or equivalent, or commit to earning one prior to receiving an education award.
12. Ability to commit to the full term of service for which they are applying.
13. Must successfully pass a fingerprint criminal history background check provided through NWSA and/or Project Sponsor Agency.
14. Regular and reliable attendance.
15. Have not previously served 2 terms in an AmeriCorps*State or National program. Members may serve up to 3 terms in a National Service Program, but only 2 terms may be within an AmeriCorps*State or National program. Members are only eligible for an education award for their first 2 terms of service, regardless of the type of term (full or part-time) and regardless of the successful completion of that term.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Interest or experience in natural resources and biology.
2. Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work as a team member and with individuals.
3. Knowledge of computer skills such as Word processing programs, email, spreadsheets and databases.
4. Strong organization ability and attention to detail.

Compensation: A total taxable living allowance (before taxes) of $1,140 per month ($11,400 for the 10-month term).

• Upon successful completion of a term of service, eligible members/leaders receive an education award of $4,725.

The education award can be used to repay qualified student loans, for further education in an accredited institution of higher learning, vocational or trade schools. The education award is taxed in the year that it is used.

• Loan forbearance (after successful completion of a term of service, AmeriCorps will pay the accrued interest on qualified loans, which is taxable).
• Basic medical insurance (covers members only, not dependents; vision and dental not included).
• Child care allowance for those who qualify.
• We can assist the member in finding low cost housing.
• Opportunities to attend relevant trainings and participate in on-the-job professional development for a variety of natural resource fields, such as fish biology, botany, hydrology, forestry, agriculture, etc.

Transportation Information:

1. While personal vehicle is not required for this position, Intern is responsible for transportation to and from 3-4 mandatory trainings in Trout Lake, WA, including an initial 8-day orientation (lodging included in trainings).
2. Organizational vehicle is available for service activities.
3. Project site is not accessible by public transportation.

Project Location: 170 NW Lincoln St., White Salmon, WA 98672

Application Deadline: On-going until filled.
Interviews: Will interview as qualified applications are received.
Type of position: Individual Placement
Service Dates: January 11, 2010 - November 19, 2010
Length of Term: 1700 hours

To Apply:

Please apply here.