Southern Blue Ridge (NC) AS-NEEDED Burn Crew Member

OFFICE LOCATION

Asheville, North Carolina, USA
NC406

WHO WE ARE

The mission of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is to conserve the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science-based organization, we develop innovative, on-the-ground solutions to the world’s toughest environmental challenges so that people and nature can thrive. Our work is guided by our values, which include a and respect for people, communities, and cultures. From a rewarding mission to career development and flexible schedules, there are many reasons to love life #insideTNC. Want to know more? Check out our to hear stories from staff or visit .

One of TNC’s primary goals is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that employees around the globe have a sense of belonging and feel that their unique contributions are valued. We know we’ll only achieve our mission by hiring and engaging a diverse staff that reflects the communities in which we work. Recognizing that people bring talent and skills that have been developed outside the scope of a job, we take a holistic approach to recruitment that considers life experience in addition to the professional requirements listed in our postings. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and you’ll stay for the people.”

WHAT WE CAN ACHIEVE TOGETHER

The primary responsibility of the Burn Crew Member will be to assist in wildland fire operations with partners such as state and federal agencies, or on Conservancy preserves in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia. Wildland fire operations may include fire line construction, holding, ignition, patrol, mop-up, and monitoring weather.

All TNC staff actively participating on a burn must meet FFT2 minimum qualification but do not need a red card. Burn crew members represent TNC on partner burns and must act accordingly. TNC supports SBR Fire Learning Network partners on multiple controlled burns each year.

Potential for assisting on forestry-related projects.

WE'RE LOOKING FOR YOU

Are you looking for a career to help people and nature? Guided by science, TNC creates innovative, on-the-ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that people and nature can thrive together. We’re looking for someone who is passionate, motivated problem-solver. Come join TNC and apply today!

There are currently 3 Southern Blue Ridge Burn Crew Member positions available beginning in April 2024, on a year-to-year basis, based in Asheville. No housing is provided.

The Burn Crew Member participates on prescribed burns throughout the Southern Blue Ridge (SBR). Under the direction of the SBR Stewardship Manager, the Crew Member provides wildland fire support for single or multi-day prescribed fire operations. Staffing needs for this position average 2-4 operational periods bi-weekly and operational periods are at the discretion of the Stewardship Manager. Operational periods will likely be sporadic and clustered by opportune weather conditions, and no guarantee of a minimum number of opportunities is given or implied. Under supervision by a Burn Crew Leader or SBR Stewardship Manager, Burn Crew Members will participate in opportunities only as their own schedules allow, and thus participation on any given opportunity is not required.

Compensation of $18.00 per hour will include travel time from a meet-up location to the burn unit. If overnight travel is required, compensation will occur during actual work hours.

The Burn Crew Member is expected to provide some of their own personal protective equipment (Nomex pants, Nomex shirt, fire boots, hard hat) as outlined by the Conservancy’s fire management manual , fire shelter and radio harness, if necessary.

You may work in variable weather conditions, at remote locations, on difficult and hazardous terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

• High school diploma and 6 months of related experience.
• Ability to achieve and maintain physical fitness standard: must be able to walk 3 miles in less than 45 minutes carrying 45lbs. The Conservancy will provide refresher and administer arduous pack test at start of the position.
• Experience operating various types of equipment.
• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. ().

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Multi-lingual skills and multicultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.
• Qualified as a Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2), including 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) and one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2. See
• 1 year or more training in fire operations or other science-related field or related experience in land management
• Ability and willingness to work in a team environment
• Flexibility in scheduling – assignments will vary, both in location and duration, from minimal hours per pay period to many hours, depending on conditions and other factors. Locations scattered around western NC and into TN, SC and GA from Asheville base.
• Ability to operate standard transmission vehicles and comfort pulling equipment trailers
• Ability to evaluate inputs in a rapidly changing work environment and make decisions that affect the safety and work of firefighters within squad
• Ability to coordinate with staff through technology including text messages and emails; familiarity with Avenza PDFMaps
• Other training which supports development of knowledge and skills: ATV Safety and Operations, S-212 Wildland Chainsaws, S-211Portable Pumps and Water Use. Preference may be given to those with higher qualifications (above FFT1).

WHAT WE BRING

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!

We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.

AUTO SAFETY POLICY

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 under the FAQ section.

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.

SALARY INFORMATION

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $18.00 per hour. This hourly rate 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.