Fire and Stewardship Crew Leader

What We Can Achieve Together:

The 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 Fire & Stewardship Coordinator in their respective region.

The Crew Leader must have experience or capability to perform 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 El Dorado Springs, MO
. The Crew Leader will be expected to travel statewide on occasion. Housing is provided. Camping may be necessary on occasion for short durations. Start date for the crew leader is February 12, 2026
. The season will last for a 9‑month duration.

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!

• High school diploma or equivalent and 1‑year training in a science‑related field.
• 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 and maintaining various types of equipment.
• Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g., First Aid, CPR)

• 1–2 years of related experience
• Multi‑lingual skills and multicultural or cross‑cultural experience appreciated.
• Experiences in leadership and problem‑solving
• 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…