POSITION OVERVIEW:
The Resource Assistants Program (RAP) is a rigorous and immersive program for individuals interested in Forest Service careers and climate resiliency work. Through direct training and mentorship, Resource Assistants (RA) gain the necessary experience to find meaningful employment in natural and cultural resource careers that improve ecosystems, combat the effects of climate change and positively impact local communities and public lands. The RAP facilitates work and learning experiences for participants, under the mentoring and coaching of Forest Service and Montana Conservation Corps (MCC) staff, while contributing to mission-critical work that demonstrates leadership, critical thinking and strategic communication. Upon completion of a Resource Assistant term, RAs are eligible to receive Direct Hire Authority with the United States Forest Service. Preference will be given to the selection of individuals who are enrolled in an institution of higher education or are recent graduates from an institution of higher education, with particular attention given to ensure full representation of women and participants from historically black, Hispanic, and Native American schools.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: March 13, 2022 – Early submissions are encouraged!
APPLY HERE: https://www.mtcorps.org/joinmcc/open-positions/title/resource-assistant
TERM DATES:
April 25, 2022 – October 21, 2022
LOCATIONS:
Coeur d’Alene, ID & Kamiah, ID
BENEFITS:
• Living Stipend: $500 per week
• Housing Stipend: $1,000 per month
• Commuting Allowance: $50 per month
• 2-Year DIRECT HIRING AUTHORITY certificate with the Forest Service
• Health Insurance: Provided at no cost to RAs
• Professional Development: Significant hands on experience in climate resiliency initiatives, field work, administrative reporting, data collection and analysis, stakeholder engagement and strategic mentorship for natural resource and climate change careers
PROGRAMMATIC DUTIES:
● Accomplish project goals to the standards and satisfaction of MCC and USFS supervisors
● Represent MCC and the USFS by adhering to all policies and procedures and working in a safe manner
● Demonstrate initiative to complete projects and assignments accurately with minimal supervision
● Promote a positive public image for MCC and the USFS by acting in a professional and respectful manner at all times
● Exhibit a strong work ethic and positive service ethic throughout the term of service
REPORTING DUTIES:
● Maintain accurate records and paperwork as requested by the USFS and MCC
● Complete and submit required reports and other paperwork to the USFS and MCC in a timely
manner
QUALIFICATIONS:
● Associate Degree from an accredited institution of higher education
● Minimum age of 18
● Available for duration of entire term of employment; commitment to completing term
● US Citizenship or lawful permanent US Resident
● Ability to pass a Criminal History Check
● Strong desire to serve the community and the environment
● Ability to travel and work in the backcountry and other remote locations on the forest, independently, and in teams
● Ability to conduct fieldwork - hike 3-12 miles per day in terrain that can be steep, rocky or uneven, often wearing a 60lb backpack and carrying tools
● Ability to perform administrative work in an office setting
● Ability to provide personal transportation to worksites, housing, and trainings
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
● Bachelor’s Degree in natural resource, agriculture, education or conservation related field
● Previous conservation/agriculture related experience, fieldwork, data collection & analysis or plan development.
● Previous exposure to a Federal Land Management agency and a willingness conduct field and administrative work is desired
● Strong computer and technology skills
● Proven ability to work on and track multiple ongoing projects
● Open and adaptable to new environments, different perspectives and rural communities.
