AmeriCorps Crew Member Position Description

(January-December)

ABOUT EARTHCORPS : EarthCorps (EC) is a Seattle-based nonprofit organization that believes all people and nature can thrive together and seeks to build a global community of leaders through local environmental service. Putting our mission into action looks like an intensive six-month or year-long training program that unites young adults (ages 18-26ish) from across the United States and around the world to learn skills in community building, environmental restoration, and reflective practice.

EarthCorps is committed to becoming a more liberated and anti-racist organization. Through a lens of diversity, equity, and inclusion, EarthCorps is building a network of leaders who have the cultural competency and skills to build a new future, while restoring vital lands and waters and connecting people to nature. This work is ongoing, and the organization is committed to being transparent with program participants about our work, as well as including their input to drive the organization towards a healthier, welcoming, and sustainable community for us all.

The EarthCorps program offers hands-on experience in environmental restoration. Crew Members will serve on crews of 5-7 members led by an EarthCorps crew leader. They will work on restoration projects throughout Western Washington, directly improving land resiliency by restoring habitat, improving water and air quality, reducing erosion, sequestering carbon, and engaging the community as stewards of shared resources.

Besides service, corps members will grow professionally and personally through training, engagement with environmental agencies, collaboration with staff, feedback, and reflection. They will develop team-building, communication, conflict resolution, and leadership skills.

This position is managed by the EarthCorps Operations Manager and supervised by EarthCorps Project Managers. It is offered through AmeriCorps, and applicants must meet AmeriCorps requirements and abide by its policies.

PROGRAM OPPORTUNITIES, RESPONSIBILITIES & OUTCOMES :

Field Service (80% of program)

Crews complete restoration projects in partnership with land management agencies throughout the Puget Sound region, gaining exposure to various sites, techniques, and approaches. Projects include invasive plant removal, native plant installation, stewardship, and trail work, accounting for 80% of the program activities.

• Initial invasive plant removal (manual / mechanical) : 25%
• Invasive plant control (herbicide) : 20%
• Native plant installation (planting) : 15%
• Stewardship / site maintenance : 20%
• Trail construction / maintenance : 20%

Camping trips are part of the program, providing outdoor skills and team development. Trips typically last 3-4 nights, with some extending up to 10 days, totaling 25-40 nights per year.

For more details, see this document

Training and Workshops (20% of the program)

Corps members will participate in training sessions on habitat restoration, ecology, land management, natural history, environmental justice, anti-racism, community engagement, leadership, and team collaboration. These sessions include lectures, discussions, site tours, and hands-on activities.

Applicants should demonstrate a strong work ethic outdoors, teamwork, commitment to social justice, and physical fitness, including lifting up to 50 pounds and hiking in steep terrain. The work is physically demanding and conducted in all weather conditions, including rain, heat, smoke, wind, and snow. Proper training in herbicide handling and COVID-19 protocols, including vaccination, is required.

Terms of Service :

We welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds, especially from marginalized communities. Please contact us with any questions or concerns about the work or requirements.

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