What We Can Achieve Together:
The Fire and Stewardship Crew Member (FSCM) will assist in ecological stewardship practices such as woody encroachment reduction, invasive species control, and other preserve maintenance tasks. The FSCM will participate in prescribed fire operations which include ignition, control, post ignition operations, suppression, monitoring, and other tasks as assigned. The FSCM will aid in preparing fire lines, maintaining equipment, community health monitoring and other tasks. As part of the FSCM’s ongoing professional development, they will be responsible for keeping abreast new burn and stewardship 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 conservation community and in the local community where the Conservancy works. This may include participation in prescribed fire activities in partnership with other non-profits, local fire departments, and local, state and federal agencies). May work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
FSCMs should come with some experience or capability to perform basic maintenance on hand tools, power equipment, vehicles, and trailers. FSCMs will perform preserve management and regional stewardship duties in late summer and when conditions are not conducive to prescribed fire, so being prepared for a flexible work schedule is necessary. Members will be expected to perform heavy physical work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances. Crew members will work in operations with a high stress team environment under close supervision. FSCMs should be prepared for crew housing, where crew members will be in close proximity both during and after work hours. Conflict-resolution and problem-solving skills are necessary in this team environment. Fire and Stewardship Crew Member (FSCM) will be based out of Wah’Kon-Tah Prairie in El Dorado Springs, MO and work throughout the Upper Osage Plains. FSCMs will be expected to travel statewide on occasion. Housing is provided. There may be an occasional need to camp for short durations. Start date for FSCMs will be late July 2024. The season will end on November 20, 2026.
High school diploma or equivalent.
Must have certifications for: Introduction to ICS (I-100), Human Factors on the Fire line (L-180), Introduction to Wild Land Fire Behavior (S-190), Firefighting Training (S-130), NIMS: An Introduction (IS-700.B). See http://www.tncfiremanual.org/firefighter.htm
Will be expected to achieve physical fitness standard as determined by local Fire Program Manager and the TNC Fire Manual (arduous pack test).
Experience operating various types of equipment.
Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g. First Aid, CPR, and driver’s license).
Multi-lingual skills and multicultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
6 months -1 year of related experience.
Must have valid driver’s license and good driving record.
Ability and willingness to follow instructions from colleagues.
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.
The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $17.00- $18.00 per hour, with housing provided. 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.
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. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and stay for the people.”
Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world!
TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our Benefits and Perks here
We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.
Our recruiting process includes a rolling interview process to ensure we engage applicants in a timely manner. This means we may review applications in the order in which they are received. Once a strong candidate pool is identified, the role will be unposted. The timeline may vary depending on the expressed interest in the role, so we highly encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible.
The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.
The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy's background screening process.
Do you have military experience? Visit our U.S. Military Skills Translator to match your military experience with our current job openings!
TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to applyhelp@tnc.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.
Air, water, food, shelter, income: nature sustains every aspect of our lives. That's why protecting and conserving nature isn't just a matter of common sense. It's the smartest investment we can make.
Since our founding in 1951, The Nature Conservancy has harnessed the power of nature to help solve our planet’s most challenging problems. And while the stakes are high, so is our resolve: to create a world where everyone thrives alongside nature for generations to come.
We do this by working hand in hand with communities around the world. By committing to a science-based, non-partisan approach that’s stood the test of time. And by bringing people together, from all walks of life, to find common ground in nature.
