Through the Northwest Service Corps (NSC), receive paid job-training experience as you meet the Northwest’s highest priority conservation needs, including wildfire reduction, non-native weed eradication, and trail building and maintenance. In addition to accomplishing critical work, you’ll earn professional certifications needed to become part of the next generation of stewardship leaders, as well as an AmeriCorps living allowance and education award.
Service Activities
The crew’s primary work focus: Wilderness First Aid, CPR, Herbicide Application, Chainsaw Operation, Driver, Trail Construction and Maintenance, Brush Cutter Operation, Resource Management, Conflict Resolution, and Map and Compass.
Community Need Addressed
Team Members will be part of an eight person crew lead by one staff member. Team Members are responsible for the safe completion of assigned work projects in a timely manner to predetermined specifications under the direction of their Crew Leader. They work closely with program staff and other participants, paying specific attention to safe work practices, proper tool use, work quality and efficiency. Projects may include trail building and maintenance, tree planting, invasive species removal and herbicide application, fire fuels reduction (chain sawing/slash piling), fence construction and park maintenance.
Position Outcomes
The Northwest Service Corps program (NSC) offers professional development and training for young adults aged 19 to 24, who are not currently in school or working. The NSC program integrates team-based work projects, education, and professional trainings into a program that stresses personal and leadership growth and the development of resource management skills. Participants will earn industry recognized certifications while working on conservation, recreation, and maintenance projects.
Benefits
Education award upon successful completion of service, Living allowance, Non-competitive eligibility (federal jobs), Student loan forbearance
Education Benefits
College Degree
Skills you will gain
project management, teamwork, conservation field skills
Competencies You Will Develop
Communication
Demonstrate sensitivity and empathy, Lead group discussion, Listen to and consider others' viewpoints, Maintain open lines of communication with others, Speak clearly, in precise language and in a logical, organized and coherent manner, Turn taking, Write cleary and effectively
Creativity & Problem Solving
Able to identify and define the problem, Capable of generating possible solutions, Communicate the problem to appropriate personnel, Improvise, Provide relevant expertise, Select and implement well-considered solution
Teamwork
Derive consensus, Develop constructive working relationships and maintain them over time, Establish a high degree of trust and credibility with others, Interact professionally and respectfully with supervisors and co-workers, Stay positive and outcome oriented, Use appropriate strategies and solutions for dealing with conflicts and differences to maintain a smooth workflow
Decisions
Accepts responsibility, Anticipate the consequences of decisions, Identify and prioritize the key issues involved to facilitate the decision making process, Involve people appropriately in decisions that may impact them, Quickly respond with a back-up plan if a decision goes amiss
Tools
Carefully consider which tools or technological solutions are appropriate for a given job, Consistently choose the best tool or technological solution for the problem at hand, Operate tools and equipment in accordance with established operating procedures, safety standards, and ethical guidelines, Seek opportunities to improve knowledge of tools and technologies that may assist in streamlining work and improving productivity
Planning
Able to prioritize various competing tasks, Create environment of contribution, Create plan of action, schedule tasks so that work is completed on time, Demonstrate the effective allocation of time and resources efficiently, Drive decision making, Effectively delegate tasks, Facilitate group planning, Set goals
Service
Be pleasant, courteous, professional and respectful when dealing with internal and external customers or clients, Evaluate customer or client satisfaction, Honor the privilege of being able to work with and for those being served, Provide personalized, prompt, and efficient service to meet the requirements, requests and needs of customers, Recognize the importance of maintaining privacy and confidentiality of those being served, Understand and anticipate the needs of others, Understand the importance of one's role in the functioning of the organization, Understand the significance of maintaining a healthful and safe environment