PCC : ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARD CREW LEADER

Polk County Conservation envisions a transformative program using AmeriCorps members to manage undermanaged natural ecosystems in Iowa. The Natural Resources Crew Leader plays a vital role in the management and stewardship of natural resources within Polk County Conservation's parks and green spaces. Working under the direction of the Natural Resources full-time staff, the Crew Leader participates in a wide range of natural resource projects aimed at enhancing and maintaining the ecological health and biodiversity of county-owned lands. This posting is for a Three-Quarter Time Natural Resource Crew Leader serving with Polk County Conservation as part of the Polk County Conservation AmeriCorps Program. AmeriCorps members develop skills that build a strong résumé, earn a living stipend and receive an Education Award upon completion. These positions are three-quarter time members who will serve a minimum of 1200 hours over 39 weeks, serving 38 hours per week. This posting is not a direct position of Polk County Conservation, and successful applicants will not be employees of Polk County. Successful applicants will not be subject to terms and conditions of Polk County employment and will not be eligible for any employee benefits provided by Polk County. However, these positions will be serving with Polk County Conservation, a host site of the Polk County Conservation AmeriCorps Program, and will be subject to AmeriCorps rules, benefits, and federal requirements.

The following trainings are required or available : CPR / AED and first aid training, chainsaw handling, and Iowa Pesticide Applicator certifications (Categories 2, 4, and 6). They may also earn NWCG certifications (S130, S190) and may receive L-180 and IS-700.

Member Duties :

• Lead crews in timber stand improvement, invasive species removal, native seed harvesting, tree planting, and pollinator garden management under guidance from full-time staff.
• Follow harvesting plans and burn plans to support ecosystem restoration.
• Ensure proper tool use and safe practices.
• Build and maintain soft trails at Easter Lake Park using hand tools and machinery after completing required training. Tasks include felling trees, erosion control, and trail clearing.
• Educate the public and volunteers on project goals.
• Participate in water quality monitoring and data collection after training.
• Conduct daily briefings with crew and staff to review assignments and accomplishments.
• Tools used include chainsaws, brush mowers, loppers, McLeods, rogue hoes, and more.
• Activities take place in woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and urban sites across Polk County.
Program Benefits :
• Housing
• Training
• Education award upon successful completion of service
• Living Allowance

Terms :

Permits working at another job during off hours

Car recommended

Permits attendance at school during off hours

Service Areas :

Environment

Community Outreach

Skills :

None

Summary :

Program Type : AmeriCorps State / National

Program : PCC : ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARD CREW LEADER

Program Start / End Date : 02 / 07 / 2026 - 11 / 07 / 2026

Work Schedule : Full Time

Education level : Some college

Age Requirement : Minimum 20

Program Locations : IOWA

Accepting Applications : From 09 / 17 / 2025 To 02 / 07 / 2026

Contact : Marissa Merical

12130 NW 128th St

Granger IA 50109

515-776-8548

pccamericorps@polkcountyiowa.gov

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