Conservation Volunteer at American Conservation Experience, California

Location: California, USA

DSC08120_marvinACE California currently has offices Santa Cruz and South Lake Tahoe. Volunteers will be placed in one of the two locations and travel to various project locations throughout their term, based on where the community need is highest. Conservation volunteers will be given accommodation at one of ACE’s houses in Santa Cruz, CA or South Lake Tahoe, CA where they will return for most of their off days when not working in the field. Extended living in the outdoors should be expected and desired, as some projects require a more intensive backcountry commitment.

American Conservation Experience (ACE) is a non-profit conservation corps offering unpaid, team-based, entry level crew member opportunities for both American and International citizens ages 18-40 to take part in challenging outdoor projects in many of the most beautiful National Parks, National Forests and wilderness areas in the western United States.

ACE is dedicated to providing professional development and service learning opportunities for emerging land managers, environmental stewards, and conservation-minded crew members in culturally diverse and naturally inspiring settings. ACE members embody an ethic of environmental stewardship, learn practical conservation skills, and explore career options while accomplishing vital conservation projects in many of America’s most spectacular open spaces. Potential applicants interested in meeting people from different U.S. states and countries while improving many of the most beautiful areas in the American West are strongly encouraged to apply!

ACE conservation corps members participate in small teams while working and camping for an average of 8 days at a time on direct service projects for the National Forest Service, National Park Service and other land management agencies. Typical projects include sustainable trail construction and maintenance, non-native species removal, fence construction, erosion control, and wilderness restoration. Conservation crew members contribute their positive energy and enthusiasm to a safe and professional outdoor atmosphere while making a positive impact to the surrounding landscapes and communities.

Essential Functions:
• Following verbal and written instructions from all ACE staff and project partners.
• Demonstrating respect towards all ACE members and wilderness regulations/policies.
• Following strict safety guidelines, including the responsible use of personal protective gear, and insuring that all tools, equipment, vehicles and other co-workers are working safely in all conditions.
• Working as a part of a team while maintaining a professional demeanor and good communication.
• Desire and ability to work outdoors and hike long distances, at times in inclement weather and terrain. Willingness to perform frequent and continuous physical activity such as bending, lifting, and carrying heavy weights.
• Willing and able to spend up to four consecutive weeks in the backcountry or at least one month away South Lake Tahoe or Santa Cruz.
• Ability to work hard with a positive mental attitude.
• Capacity to take care of oneself during challenging work days by monitoring personal hydration, energy levels, and safety procedures.
• Abiding by all ACE rules including the zero tolerance policy of alcohol consumption/possession on all ACE projects and properties.

Remuneration/Benefits:
• Complimentary housing in South Lake Tahoe or Santa Cruz during off-days.
• All meals and individual tents during project days.
• Free transportation to and from project locations.
• Opportunity to advance within the organization and obtain an AmeriCorps or Staff position.
• Practical, hands-on experience that will enhance resume/leadership building.
• Networking opportunities with projects partners (USFS, NPS, etc.).
• Job skills training, career development, and service learning opportunities.
• Unique experience that allows plenty of time for members to explore the American West with fellow outdoor enthusiasts from a wide range of backgrounds.

Qualifications:
• Proof of health insurance
• Strong work ethic, positive attitude, and an interest/background in conservation.
• A 12 week commitment is recommended

2015: MARCH 7, APRIL 4, and beyond are open registration dates!

http://usaconservation.org/volunteers/volunteer%20registration.html

Job Type: Conservation Volunteer

Location: California

Cost to Volunteer: no cost, housing and meals on project days included, travel to projects included

Season: Spring, Summer, Fall

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/usaconservation

Learn More At: American Conservation Experience
http://usaconservation.org/volunteers/volunteer%20registration.html