Youth Crew Leader

Montana Conservation Corps; Montana; On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Wilderness First Aid/CPR training reimbursement

Job summary

A leading conservation organization in Montana seeks a Youth Program Leader to support high school youth in natural resource projects. The role involves managing crews, fostering teamwork, and ensuring safety during wilderness activities. Applicants should possess a high school degree and effective communication skills, with a passion for serving youth and the environment. Training and certifications will be provided. This is a unique opportunity to make a difference in the community while enjoying the outdoors.

Qualifications

• Must be a US Citizen, National, or Lawful Permanent Resident.
• 21+ years old by the start date.
• Able to pass a National Service Criminal History Check.
• Willingness to serve long hours in all weather conditions.
• Commitment to completing the full term of service.

Responsibilities

• Support high school youth in completing conservation projects.
• Provide on-site management and foster youth engagement.
• Ensure safety during all activities and maintain project relationships.
• Communicate duties with technical advisors for project completion.

Skills

Effective written and oral communication skills

Service ethic

Ability to lift up to 35 pounds

Ability to hike in rugged terrain

Education

High school degree or GED

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Job description

Reports to: Regional Youth Program Manager

Position Summary

The Youth Program Leader supports high school youth (ages 14–18) in successfully completing Montana Conservation Corps (MCC) natural resource and community service projects. This role provides on-site crew management, fosters positive group dynamics, and ensures a motivated, well-functioning team. Youth Program Leaders work in pairs to guide crews of 4–6 members on 10-day overnight “hitches.” Crews camp for the duration of each session, often in remote locations, varied terrain, and all weather conditions. Leaders receive certifications such as Wilderness First Aid/CPR and Youth Mental Health First Aid, as well as training in leadership, youth engagement, and technical project skills. Leaders will apply these skills to mentor and support youth participants throughout the summer.

Youth Program Leader pairs will form a leadership team that is supervised by the Youth Program Coordinator and further supported by the Youth Program Manager and Director.

Project Duties

• Duties may include building or maintaining trails, building fences, and habitat restoration, among many other types of conservation projects.

Programmatic Duties

• Oversee implementation of all elements of the youth program, including formal education curriculum, strategies for healthy crew dynamics, technical and camp-life skills
• Provide guidance and support to youth members during day projects and overnight camping experiences.
• Communicate and organize duties in conjunction with the partner/technical advisor and assure project completion
• Ensure safety as the top priority during all MCC activities and projects and promote a culture of safety
• Establish and maintain good working relationships with regional staff, members, project technical advisors, youth, and volunteers.
• Promote a positive public image for the MCC by wearing the MCC uniform and acting in a professional and respectful manner at all times while representing MCC

Administrative Duties

• Provide information for development and evaluation of Members; including both positive feedback and areas of potential improvement
• Maintain accurate records, including timesheets, personnel, Member development, inventory, safety and project records
• Complete and submit required reports and other paperwork in a timely manner

Qualifications

• High school degree, GED, or willingness to pursue obtaining a GED
• US Citizen, National or Lawful Permanent Resident
• Ability to pass a National Service Criminal History Check
• 21+ years old by the start date
• Valid driver’s license, ability to pass a Motor Vehicle Records check (Driving an MCC vehicle is required)
• Ability to eventually hike 3-20 miles per day in terrain that can be steep, rocky or uneven, often wearing a 45lb backpack while carrying tools
• Ability to lift up to 35 pounds repeatedly and use hand and power tools
• Effective written and oral communication skills
• Ability to obtain Wilderness First Aid/CPR training. (Training is reimbursable to allotted amount/ MCC provides training) ● Strong service ethic and desire to serve the community and the environment
• Willingness to serve long, hard hours in all weather conditions
• Ability to be away on overnight trips for up to 11 days at a time
• Commitment to completing term; available for duration of entire term of service
• Passion for serving youth and the outdoors

Desired Additional Qualifications

• Experience working with youth ages 14-18

MCC is committed to being welcoming to all and encourages people of all backgrounds to apply.

While this position description describes the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this position, it is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. All Montana Conservation Corps positions may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities.