Job Information
Mile High Youth Corp Land Conservation Leader Corpsmember (Eastern Plains/La Junta & Surrounding Areas) in La Junta, Colorado

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Position Description:
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*Mile High Youth Corps' Eastern Plains Crew Leader positions require individuals who are skilled problem-solvers, experienced leaders, and positive role models. Crew leaders must possess a strong work ethic, promote high-quality performance in their crew, and devote themselves to field-based youth development. The position requires both leadership and technical aptitude, in addition to a high level of comfort in the outdoors. Crew Leaders begin the program with two weeks of in-house training, field-based training and projects with MHYC Land Conservation program. They then transition to Crew Leader roles for the Fall Forestry season. Crew Leaders lead environmental stewardship projects on public and protected lands throughout the Eastern Plains Region. Projects include fire mitigation, habitat restoration, fencing and park development. Corpsmembers will be enrolled in AmeriCorps---a national community service program. This position is based in La Junta, CO, and will complete land conservation projects in the six-county region of Baca, Bent, Crowley, Kiowa, Otero, and Prowers counties. *
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*Reports to: Program Coordinator: Land Conservation. *
*Position open until: March 23, 2026 *
Service location: 52 N. Bent Ave. Las Animas, CO 81054
*Compensation and Benefits *
- Biweekly stipend: The stipend will be paid every two weeks from April 6-November 13, 2025. The stipend reflects two different rates of pay, associated with the following:
- During training (April 6 -- September 13), members will earn $1,240 every two weeks before taxes.
- Upon joining a Crew Leadership team* (September 14 -- November 13), members will earn $1,400 every two weeks before taxes.
- *Position descriptions with additional requirements of Crew Leader positions are available upon request
- AmeriCorps Education Award: Earn a total education award of $4,773.49 upon successful completion of a 675 hour term of service ($2,817.14) and a 450-hour term of service ($1,956.35). This award can be used to pay tuition, pay back qualifying student loans or go on an expedition through a wilderness school! Corpsmembers have 7 years to use the award.
- Student Loan Forbearance - Corpsmembers can apply to put their qualified federal student loans on hold during their term through the National Service Trust.
- Counseling - Corpsmembers receive up to 8 free mental health counseling sessions per year.
- Networking - Corpsmembers have opportunities to network with federal, state and local natural resources professionals and access to a vast alumni network!
- Training -- Corpsmembers will receive training in Wilderness First Aid, CPR, Leave No TraceTM, S-212 Wildland Fire Chainsaws, outdoor ethics, facilitation and public speaking, peer mentoring and extensive leadership development.
Timeline:
This is a temporary position from April 6 --November 13, 2026.
- Consecutive 675-hour term and 450-hour term of AmeriCorps service in a 8 -month commitment.
- 40-hour weeks Monday-Friday, hours will vary by season and project.
Overnight camping is required for some projects and trainings.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Communicate effectively with project partners around project goals, asking clarifying questions when needed.
- Facilitate daily safety circles, goal setting activities, and project debriefs.
- Ensure timely, accurate, and quality completion of projects.
- Complete project photographs and gather required data for reporting for each project.
- Provide support including, but not limited to building, vehicle and tool maintenance. Corpsmembers may be responsible for additional camp chores and educational activities in the evening or morning when camping.
- Ensure Corpsmembers follow all MHYC policies and procedures; encourage a positive Corps culture.
- Provide daily support of the members of the crew including assigning, leading and instructing project tasks and training Corpsmembers in the development of technical and leadership skills.
- Plan and facilitate crew meetings and team-building activities.
- Provide support to Corpsmembers in the development of technical and leadership skills.
- Monitor and promote physical and mental wellness on and off the project-site.
- Provide consistent, ongoing informal feedback to Corpsmembers.
- Promote safe space for Corpsmembers to share near misses, injuries, etc., providing a positive safety culture.
- Support the retention of Corpsmembers through active mentorship, trainings, check-ins, and resource support.
- Oversee crew competitions including the safety competition and Summer Olympics.
- Oversee the near miss log, submits weekly updates with red flags from the near miss log to the Land Team, and has follow-up conversations with Corpsmembers when necessary.
Support the Program Coordinator in identifying, procuring, and distributing resources to Corpsmembers.

Qualifications:
- Must be physically fit, able to lift 50 lbs., spend 8-10 hours a day in all weather conditions (e.g., sun, heat, wind, rain, etc.) and hike 7 miles with a day pack.
- Must have valid driver's license with insurable driving record and ability to drive a 12-passenger van to and from project sites with an attached trailer or wood chipper.
- Able to camp approximately 4 consecutive days at a time in all weather conditions.
- Must have strong communication and conflict management skills: ability to motivate others, organize and mentor a crew of young adults on projects, communicate effectively with a diverse group of people, co-workers, and supervisors, and ensure safe work practices.
- Able to be on time and maintain consistent attendance throughout term of service.
Must commit to complete the program.
Requirements:
- Between the ages of 21-24. (must be a driver, driver eligibility must be at least 21 years old)
- High school or GED/HSE graduate or still enrolled.
- Must be eligible for enrollment in AmeriCorps as a US Citizen, National or Lawful Permanent Resident. Documentation will be required on the first day. Must bring identification documents necessary to complete the I-9 and other forms on your first day.
- Pre-service National Service Criminal History Check required;
- Corpsmembers must not engage in any prohibited activities as listed in the AmeriCorps Me