Service Position Summary
Position Title AmeriCorps Maintenance and Fire Management
The Maintenance & Fire Management member will assist with facility maintenance, vegetation management, wildfire prevention, and habitat restoration projects across the O'ahu National Wildlife Refuge Complex. This position will support refuge staff with maintaining fire breaks, mowing and brush management, invasive vegetation removal, fence and infrastructure maintenance, and habitat management activities that protect native ecosystems and reduce wildfire risk. The position will provide hands-on experience in conservation land management, wildland fire preparedness, equipment operation, and refuge operations. This position is field-intensive and requires serving outdoors in rugged conditions, often in remote areas under hot, humid, wet, dusty, and physically demanding environments.
This position is part of SCA’s National Direct Opportunity Youth Service Initiative (OYSI). OYSI is a partnership between SCA, AmeriCorps, and The Corps Network which engages youth ages 18–24 who are disconnected from school or work in hands-on conservation service that protect and restore public lands, waters, and recreation resources nationwide. The program provides job-skills training, support, and career pathways in environmental stewardship and infrastructure fields, while prioritizing placements for participants who meet opportunity-youth eligibility criteria
Member Impact
Members will make a meaningful, hands-on contribution in implementing critical projects in resource management to reduce wildfire risk and protect native ecosystems. They will contribute to maintaining a variety of infrastructures, fire breaks, and contribute to fire-related habitat restoration projects across the refuge. In addition, the individual will help the refuge keep its programs open and accessible to visitors.
Schedule
September 7, 2026 – August 6, 2027
Hours
40 hours/week
Monday through Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Some nights and weekends may be required during training and for special activities.
A minimum 30-minute lunch break is required each service day. Lunch periods do not count toward the required minimum service hours.
Service Location
James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge, Kahuku, HI
Immediate Supervisor/Title
Kelly Goodale, Wildlife Biologist
AmeriCorps Service Term Minimum Hours Requirement
1700 hours
Essential Functions
·Operate and maintain equipment including mowers, skid steer, weed eaters, chainsaws, blowers, pumps, hand tools, and utility vehicles.
·Conduct mowing and vegetation management along roads, trails, fence lines, and fire breaks to reduce wildfire fuels.
·Assist with creation, maintenance, and improvement of wildfire fuel breaks and defensible space around refuge infrastructure.
·Support habitat management projects including invasive plant removal, native habitat restoration, erosion control, and debris removal.
·Perform general maintenance duties including fence repair, sign installation, painting, facility upkeep, and trail maintenance.
·Assist with wildfire preparedness activities and emergency response operations as needed.
·Conduct manual labor in steep, uneven, muddy, or heavily vegetated terrain while carrying tools and equipment.
·Safely use herbicides and follow refuge safety protocols and equipment procedures.
·Work effectively both independently and as part of a field crew.
The position functions will comply with all AmeriCorps Prohibited Activity restrictions specified in the SCA AmeriCorps Member Service Agreement and SCA Corps Member Handbook.
Marginal Functions
·Assist with loading, hauling, and transporting equipment and supplies.
·Maintain accurate records of completed work, equipment use, and maintenance activities.
Required Qualifications
·Interest in conservation, natural resource management, wildland fire, maintenance, and/or outdoor field work.
· Willingness to perform strenuous outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
·Strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to learn.
·Experience with hand tools, power tools, small engines, or tractor operation is desirable. Valid driver’s license.
AmeriCorps Eligibility Requirements:
This position is part of a specialized SCA AmeriCorps program and if you are selected, you will be serving as an SCA AmeriCorps member. To be eligible for this position you must meet these basic AmeriCorps Eligibility Requirements:
· Being a citizen, permanent resident, or national of the United States;
· Being at least 18 years or older;
· Having a high school diploma or equivalent or actively working to complete;
· Being willing to undergo National Service Criminal History Check after acceptance of position, including criminal background, sex offender and FBI checks.
Preferred Qualifications
·Experience operating landscaping, agriculture, or maintenance equipment preferred.
·Ability to hike long distances over rough terrain carrying equipment and supplies.
Commitment Required
The program’s term of service is a 48-week (1920 hours) commitment that will last September 7, 2026 – August 6, 2027.
Members will serve 40 hours per week.
Living Accommodations
Housing may be available at the bunkhouse at James Campbell NWR, Kahuku, HI.
Personal Vehicle Requirement
Not required; Recommended for days off
Compensation
Training and Additional Benefits
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.
We are a dynamic and inclusive organization dedicated to transforming lives through the power of work. As the Talent Acquisition team, we are passionate about finding exceptional individuals who are eager to make a positive impact on our community.
✨ Join our team of change-makers! ✨
🔍 Seeking driven and talented professionals who want to thrive in a purpose-driven environment.
💼 We offer exciting opportunities across various departments, from retail and operations to administration and social services.
💡 Our mission is to empower individuals facing barriers to employment, equipping them with skills, resources, and support to build successful careers.
🤝 Collaborate with a diverse and inclusive team that values teamwork, innovation, and compassion.
💫At Palmetto Goodwill, you'll discover a nurturing environment where your skills are valued, and your potential is encouraged to flourish!
Our History:
Here in Lower South Carolina, your local Goodwill has been building better communities through the power of work since the 1970s. In 1974, a small group of local citizens raised concerns over the lack of opportunities for people with disabilities in the Charleston area. After five years of endless meetings and small fundraising activities, the group received a charter from Goodwill Industries International and the agency officially opened its doors on October 16, 1979, with the name Goodwill Industries of Lower South Carolina, Inc.
Since its inception, your local Goodwill has continued to provide services to individuals, businesses and organizations throughout the South Carolina. The community has supported Goodwill Industries with donations of goods, monetary contributions and by shopping in Goodwill retail stores. Because of this support, Goodwill’s mission of helping people achieve their full potential through the dignity and power of work is as relevant today as it was when Goodwill opened its doors in 1979.
