AmeriCorps Crew Member

Northwest Youth Corps; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 6,912 - 8,448; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stipend of $7,680

AmeriCorps Education Award

Training in outdoor skills

Job summary

Northwest Youth Corps offers a training program for young people aged 19-26, focusing on outdoor work that positively impacts urban forests in Tacoma, WA. Participants will engage in tree planting, maintenance, and other ecological activities while gaining valuable skills and credentials.

This physically demanding role requires teamwork and commitment, with training provided by experienced staff. Members receive a stipend and an education award upon completion.

Qualifications

• Must be aged 19–26 at enrollment.
• US citizenship or permanent residency required.
• First Aid/CPR certification required before participation.

Responsibilities

• Complete urban forest health projects.
• Participate in tree planting and maintenance activities.
• Work collaboratively with crew members under leadership.

Skills

Teamwork

Flexibility

Leadership

Attention to detail

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Job description

LOCATION

Tacoma, WA. Local housing is not provided for this program. Project locations generally include parks and natural areas in the Treasure Valley Area.

DATES / HOURS

The service term of 480 total hours runs from September 21 through December 18, 2026. This program operates Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–4:30 pm (some variation expected, occasional Tuesday–Friday). All missed days must be made up to complete the service term; supporting documentation may be required for compelling circumstances.

BENEFITS / PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

• Members receive a stipend totaling $7,680 (before taxes) dispersed in pro‑rated monthly increments.
• Upon successful completion, members receive an AmeriCorps Education Award of $1,956.35, which can be used for college tuition, loans, trade schools, or outdoor certificates.
• UCF Crew members can gain industry‑recognized credentials and skills that can be added to their CV/Resume, helping them access outdoor‑related careers.
• Training may cover topics such as Brush Cutter Operation and Maintenance, Wood Chipper Operation, Driver (select members only) and Trailer Use, Tool Use and Maintenance, Native and Invasive Species Identification, Forestry Education (Tree Identification, Proper Tree Planting and Maintenance techniques, Common Health Issues in Trees, Surveying Techniques), and OHSA Training.

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Northwest Youth Corps is seeking young people aged 19‑26 for a jobs‑training and educational opportunity, working outdoors while making a positive impact on the South Puget Sound’s urban forests. Crews work with four other members and one crew leader to complete urban forest health projects, including tree planting and maintenance, wildfire fuels mitigation, invasive plant management, and tree surveying. Experienced field staff provide training and education on all projects. The work is physical, rigorous, and conducted in all weather and terrain using hand and power tools in primarily urban areas. A key focus is building leadership and cooperation within the team. Prior experience is not necessary; all training is provided, but maturity, teamwork, and openness to new challenges are vital.

QUALIFICATIONS

• 19‑26 years old (age at enrollment)
• US citizenship or permanent residency
• High School Diploma or GED*
• *If you do not currently hold a High School Diploma or GED, NYC may be able to waive this requirement and provide support under the condition that the GED exam is taken within 60 days of completing the session
• Pass a background check
• Current First Aid/CPR certification, or applicants must obtain certification before participation (reimbursement up to $35 may be available)
• Ability to arrive on time at the pre‑designated meeting point during all training and service
• Desire to learn and grow
• Positive mental attitude, flexibility, and commitment to success
• Excellent judgment
• Consistent attendance and punctuality
• Ability to listen, give and receive feedback
• Desire to go the extra mile to make a positive impact on oneself, others, and the environment

PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT

Applicants must be in good physical condition; capable of working on strenuous, labor‑intensive projects. Training and work projects often require heavy lifting, constant bending, digging, and being on foot for 8 hours per day.

• Physical Condition: Candidates in good physical condition, capable of working long hours on strenuous projects, are preferred. NYC’s work projects often require heavy lifting, constant bending, digging, and long hikes to and from the worksite.
• Work environment: Temperature, noise level, and other factors may affect working conditions while performing the job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals to perform the essential functions of the position.

Northwest Youth Corps is an Equal Opportunity Employer.