Job Type: Full-time, seasonal, on-site
Location: Hatfield, Missouri
Salary: $20/hour
Job Description:
The Nature Conservancy Fire and Stewardship Crew Leader (FSCL) will work in a team environment and participate in prescribed fire operations which include ignition, control, post ignition operations, suppression, monitoring, and other tasks as assigned. The FSCL will participate and may lead teams of crew members in preparing fire lines, maintaining equipment, community health monitoring and other tasks. This FSCL will assist in and may guide a team conducting ecological stewardship practices such as woody encroachment reduction, invasive species control, and other preserve maintenance tasks.
As part of the Crew Leader’s ongoing professional development, they will be responsible for keeping abreast of new burn techniques and equipment to enhance skills and maintain/grow professional fire certifications and stewardship 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 fire & stewardship activities in partnership with other non-profits and local, state, and federal agencies.
The Crew Leader will be part of the Grand River Grasslands Fire & Stewardship Team. This role with work with Fire & Stewardship Crew Members in the field with direction given by the Grand River Grasslands Fire & Stewardship Coordinator.
The Crew Leader must have experience or capability to preform basic maintenance on hand tools, power equipment, vehicles, and trailers. They will perform preserve management duties when conditions are not conducive to prescribed fire, so being prepared for a flexible work schedule is necessary. The Crew Leader 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.
The Crew Leader will work in a high stress team environment and be able to independently lead crew members to complete fire & stewardship tasks. They should have conflict resolution and problem-solving skills. The Crew Leader should be prepared for crew housing, where crew members will be in proximity both during and after work hours. The Fire and Stewardship Crew Leader will be based out of Dunn Ranch Prairie in Hatfield, MO and work throughout the Grand River Grasslands. The Crew Leader will be expected to travel statewide on occasion. Housing will be provided but, there may be an occasional need to camp for short durations. Start date for will be August 13, 2025. The season will end on November 26, 2025.
But that's not all – your journey with us means continuous growth. Master new techniques and equipment to level up your skills and certifications. Plus, you'll build strong relationships within the fire community and local areas where we operate. Apply today to join TNC!
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)
Desired Qualifications:
Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
Experience in leadership and problem-solving.
Ability and willingness to work in a team environment.
One to two years of experience in fire operations related experience in land management or a similar field.
Ability and willingness to follow instructions from colleagues.
See the “Learn More” link below for more information and to apply.
