What are the responsibilities and job description for the AmeriCorps Fall Crew Member position at Bur Oak Land Trust?
The AmeriCorps Stewardship Crew is essential to the management and restoration of Bur Oak Land Trust properties and other protected nature preserves on which the land trust serves in eastern Iowa. Field Crew Members will serve on a 3-4 person team led by a Crew Leader to restore native habitat and remove invasive plant species. The crew will be trained in a variety of land management techniques including chainsaw operation, prescribed fire, herbicide application, and use of other tools to improve overall habitat quality on these sites.
The service term for this position is approximately 3 months, with a typical service schedule of 32-40 hours per week in the field, Monday through Friday. The position starts September 1, 2026 and ends December 8, 2026. The Crew Member is responsible for serving a minimum of 450 hours, completing required service tasks, and serving until the December 2026 deadline to successfully complete their term. Opportunities to serve beyond December 2026 will be available for the right candidate.
Position responsibilities:
- Chainsaw operation skills including limbing, bucking, stumping, slash-cutting, and limited tree felling
- Participation in prescribed fire activities including ignition, suppression, and mop-up, as well as burn unit preparation work.
- Safe use of herbicides through cut-stump, basal bark, or foliar spray methods
- Use of a variety of other power and hand tools, including brushcutters, brush mowers, weed whips, leaf blowers, augers, and others.
- Clean and maintain various equipment used to accomplish project tasks as assigned. Promptly alert site supervisor of any mechanical issues or repairs.
- Operate program vehicles safely at all times, including work trucks, trailers, and Utility Terrain vehicles.
- Members may have the opportunity to assist with wildlife surveys and community outreach events as opportunities arise.
Benefits:
- Living allowance: $6,300.00 (pre-tax).
- Position is eligible for an AmeriCorps Education Award upon successful completion of the program. Education Award: $1,956.35.
AmeriCorps required qualifications:
- Must be a high school graduate or GED equivalent
- Must be at least 17 years old or older at the start of service
- Must pass a 3-part national service criminal history check
- Must have a valid driver’s license or other government issued photo identification
- Must hold one of the following citizenship statuses: US citizen, US national, or Lawful Permanent Resident
Preferred qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or in pursuit of a bachelor's degree
- Ability to lift 50 lbs
- Ability to hike/walk up to 5 miles per day while carrying equipment
- Physical labor experience
- Leadership experience
To apply: Please submit both a resume and cover letter for consideration. Address your cover letter to Sarah Lawinger, Land Stewardship Director. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.
Bur Oak Land Trust is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment free from discrimination on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, religion, associational preference, status as a qualified individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Job Types: Full-time, Temporary
Pay: $6,300.00 per year
License/Certification:
- Driver's License (Preferred)
Ability to Relocate:
- Iowa City, IA 52240: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $6,300