Crew Leader with the Central Oregon Youth Conservation Corps (COYCC)

We’re looking for Summer Crew Leaders who can supervise, mentor, and direct teens during conservation projects on public lands. This position runs a crew of 5 (ages 16-18) for 8 weeks in the summer, working alongside US Forest Service field professionals on conservation projects like fire fuels reduction (piling slash, fire lines, preparing for controlled burns), habitat restoration (invasive species removal, caging and planting native plants, wildlife habitat, cattle fencing projects), and trail work (maintenance, brushing, tread work), and more. Crew leaders are responsible for driving youth to and from work sites in HOC or USFS rigs, identifying potential job hazards, implementing proper safety practices, completing job logs, and managing crew cohesion and culture.

Summer Crew Leaders are assigned a crew and based out of one of the following USFS workstations: Madras, Prineville, Redmond, Bend, Sisters, or Crescent. The position is supervised by HOC’s Summer Program Manager and supported by USFS staff daily. The entire regional program has 16 crew leaders and 82 youth. The program schedule is: Crew Leader orientation/training week 6/20 – 6/24, then M-Th 6/27 – 8/18.

Educational AspectThis is a great opportunity to gain experience with Forest Service work during the summer! Forest Service specialists help direct and train crews on the technical aspects of conservation projects and provide on-the-job training for crew leaders. Crew Leaders are expected to direct crews without USFS assistance once they are proficient/familiar with job tasks.

Further RequirementsThe ideal candidate will have at least 1 year of experience in youth supervision or teaching and experience in outdoor work. A valid driver’s license, a clean driving record (part of the background check), and current CPR/first aid certification is required. For driving insurance, HOC prefers Crew Leaders to be at least 24 years old but may approve younger drivers that have clean driving records. Crew Leaders must be able to work outside in summer conditions for 4 days per week, ten-hour shifts. Basic comfortability with manual labor and hand tools required.

Final candidates will need to complete an interview, additional paperwork, provide references, and complete a post-offer background check and drug screening. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. HOC strives to match the diversity of the communities we serve and encourages community members and program alumni to apply! Please submit applications ASAP – hiring will be on a rolling basis – the deadline for applications is May 1! 

Lift RequirementsLifting up to 50 lbs. Physical Capabilities: Operating a vehicle, walking up to six miles per day, performing physically exhausting manual labor in all weather conditions.