Conservation Corps Minnesota seeking applicants

Conservation Corps Minnesota & Iowa is accepting applications for 2015 AmeriCorps field crew member positions from individuals, ages 18 to 25, who have an interest in working outdoors. The priority application deadline is Dec. 31, but applications will be accepted until all positions are filled.

These positions are for an AmeriCorps service term that runs Feb. 16 – Dec. 11.

Corps field projects are completed on public land in cooperation with nonprofit organizations and government agencies, such as the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. These jobs provide technical field experience and professional certifications for future natural resource careers. Many DNR employees got their start in natural resources with the Conservation Corps, formerly known as Minnesota Conservation Corps.

Corps members receive on-the-job training in natural resource management and put those skills into practice working on habitat restoration projects. Typical work includes exotic species management, prairie and oak-savanna restoration, stream bank stabilization, trail building and maintenance, prescribed burning and wildland fire suppression. AmeriCorps positions with the Conservation Corps involve physically challenging, team-oriented work to accomplish habitat restoration and emergency response projects. Projects are usually completed outdoors, and about 70 percent involve camping near the project location.

Applicants should have an interest in working in a team setting, giving back to their community and exploring professional development opportunities. Crew members receive a living stipend of $1,235 a month, health insurance, student loan forbearance during the service term and a post-service AmeriCorps Education Award that may be used for college expenses or to repay qualified student loans.

To apply, visit www.conservationcorps.org/apply or contact the recruitment coordinator at recruit@conservationcorps.org or 651-209-9900, ext. 31.

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