at The Nature Conservancy in Carterville, Illinois, United States
Job Description
OFFICE LOCATION
Carterville, Illinois, USA
#Li-Onsite
This is a full-time (35+ hours a week), term-based (up to 2 years) position located in Carterville, Illinois.
WHO WE ARE
The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world's toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive. Our work is guided by our values, which include a commitment to diversity and respect for people, communities, and cultures. From a rewarding mission to career development and flexible schedules, there are many reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want to know more? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.
One of TNC's primary goals is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that employees around the globe have a sense of belonging and feel that their unique contributions are valued. We know we'll only achieve our mission by hiring and engaging a diverse staff that reflects the communities in which we work. Recognizing that people bring talent and skills that have been developed outside the scope of a job, we take a holistic approach to recruitment that considers life experience in addition to the professional requirements listed in our postings. Please apply - we'd love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, "you'll join for the mission, and you'll stay for the people."
WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER
Selected trainees in the Women in Fire Fellowship work as part of the Southern Illinois Interagency Habitat and Fuels Crew for a term of up to two years. As part of our team, you'll gain hands-on experience in the preparation and implementation of prescribed fire, wildfire suppression tactics and techniques, safely operating and maintaining equipment, invasive plant management, forest stand improvement, and other stewardship activities. Experience is complemented by a robust training program consisting of formal and informal training related to Fire and Aviation Management (FAM) and wholistic management practices used in the restoration and preservation of a large, diverse, and unique landscape. You'll work alongside a cadre of mentors from The Nature Conservancy, US Forest Service, and others in growing your skills, knowledge, and connections for the next steps in your career.
Responsibilities & Scope:
- Work collaboratively with partners to achieve shared goals in fire management and forest stewardship.
- Perform non-native invasive species removal, timber stand improvement, and other stewardship activities to meet workload demands or when conditions/seasonality are not conducive to fire.
- Safely perform tasks while maintaining a high level of situational awareness to ensure crew safety.
- Work in a high stress, goal-oriented, team environment.
- Maintain flexibility to quickly change tasks/roles and work within varying frameworks of command structure.
- Perform arduous work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
- Complete a final project that addresses a problem or knowledge gap within Fire and Aviation Management.
- Some projects and activities may require long days (10+ hour shifts), working weekends, and extended out-of-state travel. Out-of-state assignments are optional and include prescribed fire assistance in the late spring, wildfire assignments in the summer, and training opportunities throughout the year.
This is a full-time (35+ hours a week), term-based (up to 2 years) position located in Carterville, Illinois.
WE'RE LOOKING FOR YOU
Looking for an opportunity to kindle your career in wildland fire and fuel your professional development? The Women In Fire Fellowship is a US Forest Service funded initiative to diversify the fire service and prepare women, transgender, and non-binary candidates for entry/mid-level Fire and Aviation Management (FAM) positions with the US Forest Service and similar agencies. The fellowship provides experience, training, professional licenses and qualifications, and opportunities to network with federal and state agencies, and non-governmental organizations in Illinois and beyond. Apply today to build your resume and confidence on the fireline with the world's leading conservation organization!
WHAT YOU'LL BRING
Minimum Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Must be able to obtain the qualifications for Prescribed Fire Crew Member (RXCM) or Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including Introduction to ICS (I-100), Human Factors on the Fire line (L-180), Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190), Firefighting Training (S-130), and one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2 as a requirement for this position. See TNC Fire Management Manual
- Must achieve physical fitness standards as determined by the local Prescribed Fire Manager and the TNC Fire Management Manual.
- Commitment to diversity, inclusion and creating a safe and supportive workplace for women and other marginalized and underrepresented groups.
- Experience operating various types of equipment.
- Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g., First Aid, CPR)
