Job Type: Full-time, on-site, seasonal
Location: The Nature Conservancy - Clear Lake, South Dakota
Salary: $18-$19.05/hour
Description:
As a Burn Crew/Stewardship Crew Member, you will participate in wild land fire operations which include ignition, control, mop-up, suppression, monitoring, and other tasks as assigned. As part of the BC/SCM’s ongoing professional development, you will be responsible for keeping abreast of new burn techniques and equipment to enhance skills and maintain/grow professional fire certification credentials.
In addition, you shall work to build and maintain relationships in the professional fire community and in the local community where the Conservancy works. This may include participation in wildland fire suppression activities in partnership with other non-profits, local fire departments, and local, state and federal agencies, tribal or indigenous, either as a TNC employee, or as a volunteer or short-term employee of the partner entity (such as an administratively determined, short term federal employee).
When you are not doing prescribed fire, you will be doing stewardship work which includes setting up for grazing projects, maintaining equipment, brush removal, and other tasks as assigned.
You may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and uneven terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances
This job posting will be open until filled and will hire four individuals.
This is a seasonal, full-time (40 hours/week) position is anticipated to start April 13, 2026 and end on June 12, 2026.
This position is based out of our Prairie Coteau office in Clear Lake, South Dakota.
Shared, bunk style housing and basic utilities are provided by TNC to the employee upon signing and agreeing to housing terms. Housing will be considered taxable income vs. charged rent. Employees should live within a 30-minute commute if they elect not to live onsite.
Training and transportation will be provided.
Hourly rate range: $18.00 - 19.05/hour dependent on experience.
Required Qualifications:
High school diploma or equivalent.
Must be able to obtain the qualifications for Prescribed Fire Crew Member (RXCM) or Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including Introduction to ICS (I-100), Human Factors on the Fire line (L-180), Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190), Firefighting Training (S-130), and one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2 as a requirement for this position. See TNC Fire Management Manual.
Must achieve physical fitness standards as determined by the local Prescribed Fire Manager and the TNC Fire Management Manual.
Experience operating various types of equipment.
Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required (e.g., First Aid, CPR).
Must have valid driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications:
Multi-lingual skills and multicultural or cross-cultural experience are appreciated.
6 months - 1 year of related experience.
Ability and willingness to follow instructions from colleagues.
