Conservationist I (JC–537403)

The Corps Network; Orange (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Dental Insurance

Health Insurance

Vision Insurance

Job summary

The California Conservation Corps is seeking a Conservationist I in Orange County to empower young adults and safeguard California’s natural resources. Reporting to the Conservationist Supervisor, you will lead a wildland firefighting hand crew in partnership with CAL FIRE and assigned staff.

You will supervise, train, and evaluate Corpsmembers; oversee equipment and property; manage records; and support emergency response efforts, including wildfires, floods, and mudslides.

Responsibilities

• Lead, train, and evaluate Corpsmembers, guiding them to develop skills and confidence.
• Oversee care, maintenance, and security of state equipment and property essential for conservation efforts.
• Teach, direct, and counsel Corpsmembers, guiding them toward success in personal and professional life.
• Manage vital recordkeeping and personnel administration tasks.
• Lead a wildland firefighting hand crew in partnership with CAL FIRE and assigned CAL FIRE staff.

Job description

JOB DETAILS

Actively Recruiting: Yes
Position title: Conservationist I (JC--537403)
Type of Position: Staff (Full-Time)
Town, City, Park, etc: Orange County
State / Territory: California
Benefits: Dental Insurance, Health Insurance, Vision Insurance
Project/Program Focus: Other
Attachments/Supplemental Materials: 202610decc4e91-9fff-414b-8b06-638309743d79_JobPostingDS

The California Conservation Corps is a department within the California Natural Resources Agency. We are the oldest and largest conservation corps in the nation. Our mission is to protect and enhance California’s natural resources and communities while empowering and developing young adults through hard work and education.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Ready to forge a meaningful career that directly contributes to California’s future? We’re looking for passionate individuals who want to empower young adults and safeguard our beautiful natural resources. If you’re driven to make a difference every single day, consider joining our team as a Conservationist 1

. Reporting to the Conservationist Supervisor, your key responsibilities will include:

• Empowering the next generation: Lead, train, and evaluate Corpsmembers, helping them build skills and confidence.
• Hands-on environmental stewardship: Oversee the care, maintenance, and security of state equipment and property essential for our conservation efforts.
• Mentorship and development: Teach, direct, and counsel Corpsmembers, guiding them toward success in their personal and professional lives.
• Operational support: Manage vital recordkeeping and personnel administration tasks.

This C1 position will lead a wildland firefighting hand crew, in partnership with CAL FIRE and assigned CAL FIRE staff, including a captain and engineer.

See attached duty statement for a complete list of responsibilities.

JOB DUTIES

Supervise, Train & Evaluate Corpsmembers

• Lead a crew of young adults working on conservation projects in cities, rural areas, and sometimes remote wilderness.
• Teach teamwork, productivity, safety, and good work habits; follow CCC guidelines for discipline when needed.
• Train Corpsmembers in conservation skills like construction, landscaping, erosion control, and trail building.
• Support emergency response efforts (wildfires, floods, mudslides, etc.) and take quick action in urgent situations.
• Run daily safety meetings and make sure everyone understands the hazards of each job.

Teach, Guide & Support Corpsmembers

• Help Corpsmembers grow as leaders; recommend candidates for leadership programs and mentor them.
• Supervise during non-work hours when assigned (evenings, weekends). Check dorms and make sure everyone stays safe.
• Provide informal support and guidance; refer Corpsmembers to professional counseling when needed.
• Track Corpsmembers’ progress in educational programs and give helpful feedback.
• Stay in close communication with Navigators and Muir Teachers; attend monthly Navigator meetings.
• Respond to after-hours emergencies.

Equipment & Property Care

• Inspect vehicles and tools to make sure they’re safe and working properly; recommend repairs.
• Drive and operate state vehicles; perform basic maintenance when needed.
• Train Corpsmembers to become safe drivers and help them work toward obtaining the required licenses.

Recordkeeping & Admin Tasks

• Keep accurate time sheets and leave records.
• Write reports (injuries, corrective actions, weekly project updates, safety notes).
• Document conservation and environmental education activities.

Support Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

• Participate in trainings and activities that build an inclusive, respectful workplace for everyone.