We are now accepting applications for the 2020-2021 AmeriCorps Project Conserve service year.
Timeline:
May 15: Application Deadline (Extended through interview period!)
May 18 – May 29: Interviews Scheduled
June 1 – June 12: Interviews Conducted
June 15 – June 19: Offers Made
September 1, 2019: First Day of Service
July 31, 2020: Last Day of Service
Overview, Eligibility, & Compensation
Project Conserve individually places members in service with one of our host site organizations working to protect the unique natural resources of the southern Blue Ridge Mountain region. Full-time (1700-hour) and half-time (900-hour) positions will serve 11-months from September through July. During their terms of service, members will promote conservation through education, volunteerism and direct environmental service. Members participate in 1 to 3 required trainings and service days per month with the full Project Conserve team. Trainings may cover a broad range of topics including conflict resolution, forest management, trail construction, invasive plant identification, environmental education, volunteer management, and disaster preparedness.
Compensation & Benefits
For full-time (1700 hour) positions in the 2020-2021 program year, members will receive:
- Living stipend of $14,279 over 11-month term of service (paid twice per month, minus taxes.)
- Health insurance reimbursement, and childcare assistance (if eligible).
- Education award of $6,195 upon successful completion of the program. This award can be used to pay off existing school loans or apply for future education.
- Mentorship, training, and professional development opportunities. Training may include Wilderness First Aid, CPR/AED, Conflict Resolution, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, and more.
Eligibility
Applicant must:
- Be a U.S. citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident
- Be at least 18 years of age at the commencement of service
- Be available and commit to full-time service from September 1, 2020 – July 31, 2021
- Consent to a criminal history check and be cleared for service
- Meet minimum education requirements (see individual service descriptions)
- Meet additional qualifications as listed in the service descriptions
- Meet essential functions for each position as listed in the individual service descriptions
The policy and intent of Conserving Carolina is to provide equal employment opportunity to all persons regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, marital status, political affiliation, sexual orientation or gender identity, disability, sex or age, or other status protected by law. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. AmeriCorps Project Conserve will provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with known mental/physical disabilities. Application materials are available in large-print format upon request.
** PLEASE NOTE: Service Positions are always contingent on AmeriCorps grant funding.
Application Instructions
Step 1: Learn about AmeriCorps Project Conserve
- Review the program overview, eligibility, and compensation information to determine if Project Conserve is right for you.
- Review Service Descriptions and identify positions you are interested in applying for.
Step 2: Complete the AmeriCorps Project Conserve Application
- Follow instructions HERE
- Keep a full copy of your application for your records
Step 3: Submit your Application
- Send a copy of your application to each host site to which you are applying (Application Form, Resume, Transcript).
- Send a copy of your application to Amy Stout, Program Director (Cover Sheet, Application Form, Resume, Transcript)
- Electronic or hard copies are accepted
As an AmeriCorps Project Conserve host site, SAHC is accepting applications for the following positions:
Land Protection & Education Member (Download PDF)
This position will provide support to the Land Protection Director and Farmland Protection Director to respond to new landowner inquiries, educate landowners about their conservation options, analyze land projects with SAHC staff, and work with landowners and staff to pursue conservation projects that satisfy SAHC’s project selection criteria. This position will also provide the member with experience in strategic conservation planning, and conducting land conservation transactions for both pristine wilderness properties and working agricultural projects. The proposed position will support Project Conserve’s long-term goals of increasing community understanding and support for conservation by being interfacing with landowners regarding the process of permanently protecting natural and agricultural land with SAHC.
Conservation Education & Volunteer Outreach Member (Download PDF)
To assist recruiting and managing volunteers for at-risk ecosystem improvement on SAHC properties, enhance SAHC’s outreach program by expanding educational outreach opportunities with partnering organizations and businesses by recruiting volunteers, planning and organizing 24-30 hikes and educational outings, and educating the community about the importance and necessity of our land conservation program. The position will enable the Associate to build initiative and strategic experience in developing public educational programs with our community farm and food project.
Stewardship & Volunteer Member (2 positions) (Download PDF)
This position will provide support to the Stewardship & Conservation Planning Director and SAHC stewardship staff to educate conservation landowners by monitoring conservation properties and assessing properties and their conservation values through preparation of detailed baseline documentation reports and land management plans. The position will prepare tailored reports educating property landowners of their property and management recommendations for at-risk ecosystems; develop educational resources for conservation easement landowners and assess impact of resources provided; and recruit volunteers and lead volunteer workdays to educate workday participants and enhance at-risk ecosystems.
Community Engagement and Communications Member (Download PDF)
This AmeriCorps position will provide capacity and support by strengthening relationships with local community centers and other partners, helping to organize educational outings within urban neighborhoods or conservation areas, leading outings for community groups to connect with SAHC preserves, and looking for ways to tell the untold stories of people’s relationships to land in the places we serve. This position will particularly focus on coordinating and leading programs and outings with established afterschool, summer camp, and other youth groups in SAHC’s service areas.
