Winter Conservation Crew Lead: Outdoor Field Leader

Southwest Conservation Corps; Salida (CO); On-site; USD 44,000 - 51,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Reduced cost housing

All meals on duty

Uniform shirts

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Health insurance eligibility after 60‑

Job summary

Southwest Conservation Corps is seeking a Crew Leader for its Winter Conservation Crew based in Salida, Colorado. The role centers on leading a small team in winter wildfire mitigation projects, with strict safety standards and hands-on training for participants in tool use and site management.

Ideal candidates hold a Red Card, A-faller/A-bucker certifications, and a Wilderness Medicine credential; expect outdoor work five days a week with housing options and weekly stipends.

Qualifications

• Active A-faller and A-bucker chainsaw certifications required.
• Active wildfire incident qualification card (Red Card) or willingness to obtain before start date.
• Current wilderness medicine certification (WFR/EMT) with CPR/AED.
• Must be physically fit to lift up to 50 lbs. and work 40–50 hours/week outdoors.
• Experience leading a crew in outdoor stewardship or manual labor.

Responsibilities

• Lead a Winter Conservation Crew of AmeriCorps members; manage schedule and tasks.
• Coach participants on saw techniques, maintenance, and safety.
• Foster collaboration, teamwork, and safe learning environments; model Leave No Trace.

Skills

Chainsaw certifications - A-faller

Chainsaw certifications - A-bucker

Red Card (Incident Qualification Card)

Wilderness Medicine (WFR/EMT) CPR/AED

Leadership experience

Physical stamina (50 lbs)

Education

High school diploma or GED

Job description

Southwest Conservation Corps is seeking a Crew Leader for its Winter Conservation Crew based in Salida, Colorado. The role centers on leading a small team in winter wildfire mitigation projects, with strict safety standards and hands-on training for participants in tool use and site management.

Ideal candidates hold a Red Card, A-faller/A-bucker certifications, and a Wilderness Medicine credential; expect outdoor work five days a week with housing options and weekly stipends.