Eastern Conservation Crew Member

American Conservation Experience; Asheville (NC); On-site; USD 15,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading conservation organization as an Eastern Conservation Crew Member. Based in Asheville, NC, you'll engage in valuable conservation projects across the Eastern U.S., gaining hands-on experience while working with public lands. Enjoy benefits like free housing, an education award, and the chance to explore scenic locations.

Benefits

Free housing

Weekly living allowance of $360

AmeriCorps education award eligibility

Food provided during project days

Discounted gear available

Qualifications

• Must pass a criminal background check.
• U.S. citizen or permanent resident required.
• Interest in conservation careers preferred.

Responsibilities

• Participate in habitat restoration and trail work.
• Work with agencies like the National Park Service.
• Gain training on various conservation tools.

Skills

Physical Capability

Hiking

Outdoor Work

Job description

Join to apply for the Eastern Conservation Crew Member role at American Conservation Experience.

Summary

Join American Conservation Experience in Asheville, NC, and receive free housing, skills and certificate training, an AmeriCorps education award eligibility, and the chance to travel and work in various locations including National Parks, Forests, and local protected areas. Multiple term lengths, locations, and start dates are available.

ACE, a non-profit conservation corps with a division in Asheville, NC, seeks members to participate in conservation projects across the Eastern U.S. These projects include habitat restoration, historic preservation, trail maintenance, and more, while completing AmeriCorps service. Members typically serve for 13 or 26 weeks, with days off between projects to explore the region. Apply today to start or advance your career!

Start Date: Late July to early August 2025

Estimated End Dates: November 2025 (for 450-hour term), February 2026 (for 900-hour term)

Location: Asheville, NC, with projects across the eastern U.S. in public lands.

Schedule: Varies; usually 4 days on with 2 or 4 days off, or 8 days on/6 days off. Remote projects may last 4-6 weeks.

Benefits: Over $2,000/month value including a weekly living allowance of $360, and an Education Award of up to $3,697.50 upon completion. Food is provided during project days; housing is free. Remote locations include camping facilities. Additional benefits may include child care coverage and federal loan forbearance.

Gear: Members receive a tent; personal gear such as sleeping bags, rain gear, and boots are provided. Pack layers for variable weather. Discounted gear available through Outdoor Prolink.

Travel: Transportation to/from worksites is provided; personal vehicles are not necessary. No relocation assistance is offered.

Position Description: Members work in teams, gaining skills and experience in conservation fields, working with agencies like the National Park Service, US Forest Service, and others. Tasks include habitat restoration, trail work, masonry, reforestation, invasive species removal, and more. Training on various tools is provided.

Qualifications: Must be physically capable of labor-intensive work, hiking, and working in diverse weather conditions. Applicants should be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, willing to work outdoors, and pass a criminal background check.

Preferred: Experience in hiking, navigation, or volunteering in communities; interest in conservation careers.

Physical Demands: Includes frequent movement, hiking, and lifting up to 60 lbs. Work environment varies with weather and terrain, including potential hazards like wildlife and extreme temperatures.

Application: Submit a resume, motivational statement or cover letter, and two references through ACE’s online portal. Early applications are encouraged as the position may close early.

For questions, contact Sydney Seng at [e-mail]. ACE participates in E-Verify and has a zero-tolerance policy for illegal drugs and underage drinking.