Pacific West Conservation Crew Member- Southern California

Overview

American Conservation Experience Pacific West, a non-profit conservation corps, seeks members to join a team serving on meaningful conservation projects throughout California. ACE Pacific West prepares Ameri Corps members for careers in resource management with public agencies and local land steward organizations. Crews work in locations including Yosemite National Park, Sequoia Kings Canyon National Park, Death Valley National Park, Pinnacles National Park, the Pacific Crest Trail, State Parks, and other sites. Choose a base location in Sacramento, Coachella Valley (Palm Springs), or Ridgecrest, California. This opportunity focuses on building skills for a conservation career while fostering a community of like-minded young professionals. Members will serve for 13 or 26 weeks on backcountry projects, including ecological restoration, habitat improvement, and trail maintenance and construction, while completing an Ameri Corps term. Members typically have 3–6 days off between projects to enjoy California’s recreational opportunities. Start Dates, End Dates, Location Start Dates: January 12, 2026 Estimated End Dates: for 450 hour term: April 22, 2026; for 900 hour term: July 15, 2025. Other term lengths may be available. Location: Coachella Valley, Ridgecrest, or Sacramento

Responsibilities

Projects will take place across California (Mojave Desert, Pacific Crest Trail, Inyo National Forest, John Muir Wilderness, Sequoia Kings Canyon, Yosemite, and more). Typical field duties include:

• Trail construction and maintenance (tread maintenance, clearing, drainage, grading, switchback construction)
• Dry and wet stone masonry
• Habitat restoration and reforestation
• Fencing and invasive species removal
• Backcountry camping and cooking
• Plant identification

Tools and equipment may include trail maintenance implements, restoration gear, and power tools; training will be provided based on level of experience. Schedule Typical schedule: 8 consecutive 10-hour field days, followed by 6 days off. Variations may include 4-on/3-off or 5-on/2-off. Remote projects may require longer onsite periods and limited cell service. A satellite phone is available for operations and emergencies.

Benefits

• Living allowance of $400/week, paid bi-weekly
• Education Award: $1,956.35 (13 weeks) or $3,697.50 (26 weeks) upon successful completion
• Potential eligibility for childcare coverage and federal loan forbearance
• Food provided on project days; housing provided during term; personal items for off-days
• Backcountry gear provided; personal sleeping gear required

When working remotely, members may camp onsite. ACE provides transportation to/from worksites; personal vehicles are not required. Relocation assistance is not provided. Position Description Members serve in professionally supervised teams, learning practical field skills and emerging leadership in conservation. They work with mentors from ACE and staff from the National Park Service, US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and other public land stewards. Fall/Winter focus includes desert restoration and fencing projects.

Qualifications

Required

• U.S. Citizen or permanent resident
• Willingness to work in a group and outdoors in varying weather
• Ability to hike long distances in rough terrain; carry up to 50 lbs; endure 8 consecutive field days
• Willingness to undergo and pass a three-part/two-part criminal history check
• ACE participates in E-Verify and will verify work authorization

Preferred

• Experience hiking/navigation in steep terrain
• Interest in conservation as a natural resource professional
• Volunteer experience in local communities

Physical Demands, Work Environment and Conditions

• Frequent sitting, standing, walking, hiking, carrying, and tool use; potential for long hikes in rough terrain
• Vision, lifting up to 50–60 lbs, outdoor/indoor conditions, variable weather
• Domestic travel; potentially remote work with camping and limited amenities

Environmental Conditions/Hazards Potential exposure to extreme heat or cold, rocky terrain, swamp or wetland conditions, biting insects, and wildlife. All duties must be performed safely and professionally. ACE reserves the right to drug test and maintains a zero tolerance policy for illegal drugs and underage drinking. To Apply Submit a resume, a motivational statement or cover letter, and at least two references via the APPLY NOW section on the ACE usaconservation website. Early consideration is available as applications are received; position may close at any time. For questions, contact ACE Pacific West Program Managers: Carlee Koritkowski or Dawn Cramer. EEO : Employment or service with ACE is based on ability, qualifications, attitude, and job-related factors. All qualified applicants have equal opportunity regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, creed, national origin, and other protected characteristics. Salary: $400 per week #J-18808-Ljbffr Apply tot his job Apply To this Job