AmeriCorps Crew Leader Wisconsin Conservation Corps

Crew Leaders guide and motivate Crew Members while completing high-priority conservation and restoration projects across Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest as a part of the Wis Corps Crew Program. A typical Wis Corps crew includes two Crew Leaders and three to four Crew Members who live and serve cooperatively throughout the season, forming a close-knit community focused on service, sustainability, and teamwork.

Depending on project needs, crews may relocate weekly or remain at a site for several weeks, living in single-occupancy tents at campsites or in shared dormitory-style housing near project sites.

Crew Leaders may be reassigned between crews as needed to support Wis Corps or project partner priorities. Crew Leaders are responsible for ensuring crew safety, fostering positive team dynamics, and supporting the professional and personal growth of Crew Members. They co-lead daily project work, train Crew Members in conservation techniques, and model effective communication, problem-solving, and leadership in the field. They communicate regularly with Wis Corps staff and partners, operate fleet vehicles and trailers, and oversee logistics and transportation.

When not serving on active projects, Crew Leaders are responsible for leading the crew in community engagement and environmental education, promoting sustainability and outdoor stewardship while exploring the communities they serve. This position provides valuable leadership and conservation experience while making a lasting impact on public lands through Ameri Corps service.

Wis Corps crews serve together to complete projects that make positive and lasting change in natural areas around the Upper Midwest. Conservation projects that Wis Corps crews complete may include:

• Habitat restoration through the treatment and removal of invasive species
• Trail building and design in state parks, national parks, conserved land, and other publicly accessible natural areas
• Boardwalk construction and installation along National Scenic Trails and in publicly accessible natural areas

Crew Leaders have the opportunity to expand their comfort zone. Crews spend the full duration of their season living, serving, and traveling together. Off times during the season are an opportunity to explore nearby towns and natural areas, take care of chores like laundry and grocery shopping, and relax at camp or in provided housing. Wis Corps does not allow the use of alcohol, recreational drugs, or tobacco throughout the entire crew season, during the service day or during non-project time.

Wis Corps crews live sustainably and follow Leave No Trace principles. Participants are responsible for developing a menu, grocery shopping, and cooking together, while taking into account all possible dietary restrictions.

Crew Leader Training:
Crew Leaders participate in a five-week training program provided by Wis Corps at the beginning of the season. Crew Leader Training features the following trainings and more:

• NOLS Wilderness First Aid
• Chainsaw Use and Maintenance Certification
• Brush Saw Use and Maintenance Training
• Certified Pesticide Applicator Certification in Wisconsin
• Leave No Trace (LNT) Training
• Trail Building Training
• Ameri Corps Orientation
• Ameri Corps Conflict Resolution Training
• Fleet Vehicle Use and Driving Training
• Trailer Towing Training and Practice
• Tent and Campsite Set Up Training
• Budgeting, Food Shopping, Cooking, and Hygiene Overview

• Co-lead and motivate a conservation corps crew made up of 2 or 3 Crew Leaders and 3 or 4 Crew Members
• Serve up to 15 hours per day on the project for 4 to 10 consecutive days in outdoor locations. A total of 40 hours per week of direct project field service time is expected, along with another 40 hours of indirect non-project service time.
• Oversee safety and well-being of the crew during the service day – Provide technical, logistical, and leadership support to crews while training Crew Members in field skills such as situational awareness, tool use, and partner-approved project methods to ensure safety and quality work
• Oversee safety and well-being during non-project time – Instruct Crew Members in all aspects of…