Burn Crew Member

nature; United States; On-site; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

The Nature Conservancy is seeking a Burn Crew Member to participate in wildland fire operations, including ignition, control, mop-up, suppression, and monitoring. You will work on a three-person squad under a Burn Crew Manager at Cahaba River and Mountain Longleaf Refuges, with a focus on developing skills and certifications.

The role requires a high school diploma, fitness readiness, and the ability to obtain RXCM/FFT2 qualifications and related licenses.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Must obtain RXCM or FFT2 qualifications including I-100, L-180, S-190, S-130, plus a supervised burn.
• Must meet local fitness standards per Fire Management Manual.

Responsibilities

• Engage in ignition, control, mop-up, suppression, monitoring, and related tasks.
• Prepare fire lines and monitor post-burn activities; participate in wildland fire operations.
• Develop and maintain professional fire certifications and community relationships.

Skills

Prescribed Fire Qualifications

Physical fitness

Equipment operation

Licenses and certifications

Driver's license

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

What We Can Achieve Together:

The Burn Crew Member (BCM) participates in wildland fire operations which include ignition, control, mop-up, suppression, monitoring, and other tasks as assigned. The BCM works on a 3-person squad associated with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Cahaba River and Mountain Longleaf National Wildlife Refuges as directed by a Burn Crew Manager or other command position. As part of the BCM's ongoing professional development, they will be responsible for keeping abreast of new burn techniques and equipment to enhance skills and maintain/grow professional fire certification credentials. In addition, they shall work to build and maintain relationships in the professional fire community and in the local community where the Conservancy works. This may include participation in wildland fire suppression activities in partnership with other non-profits, local fire departments, and local, state and federal agencies, tribal or indigenous, either as a TNC employee or short-term employee of the partner entity (such as an administratively determined, short term federal employee). They may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances. This is a seasonal position from January 4, 2027, to April 23, 2027.

We're Looking for You:

Ready to be a part of wildland fire operations? Join us as a Burn Crew Member (BCM) and be at the heart of the action! From ignition to mop-up, you'll tackle tasks like preparing fire lines and monitoring post-burn activities. But that's not all - your journey with us means continuous growth. Master new techniques and equipment to level up your skills and certifications. Plus, you'll build strong relationships within the fire community and local areas where we operate.

What You'll Bring:

High school diploma or equivalent.

• Must be able to obtain the qualifications for Prescribed Fire Crew Member (RXCM) or Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including Introduction toICS (I-100), Human Factors on the Fire line (L-180), Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190), Firefighting Training (S-130), and one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2 as a requirement for this position. See TNC Fire Management Manual.
• Must achieve physical fitness standards as determined by the local Prescribed Fire Manager and the TNC Fire Management Manual.
• Experience operating various types of equipment.
• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required (e.g., First Aid, CPR).
• This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC's Auto Safety Program. Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit the Auto Safety information page. Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

Salary Information:

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $18.00- $20.00 per hour. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate's actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate's location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.

Who We Are:

The Nature Conservancy's mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we create innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world's toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We're rooted in our mission and guided by our values, which include respect for all people, communities, and cultures. Whether it's career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there's many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor.

One goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. In addition to the requirements in our job postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicant's unique experience. To quote a popular saying at TNC, "you'll join for the mission, and stay for the people."

What We Bring:

Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Th