Conservation Crew Leader (leading crews of young adults, aged 18-30)

Title: Conservation Crew Leader (leading crews of young adults, aged 18-30)

Conservation Legacy Program: Southwest Conservation Corps, Four Corners

Reports to: Adult Program Coordinator

Location/s: Durango, CO

Status: Seasonal, Full-time, Camping Program  

Dates: April 6^th-November 6^th, 2026


* potential option to end August 7^th, 2026

Wages: $925-1125/week depending on prior experience and certifications; $750/week during 7-week training period


* SCC will hire 3 Senior Crew Leaders that will receive in-season rate during training season 

Benefits: Health Benefit Eligible, 5 paid days off, structured in August between seasons and additional days of PTO.

Food provided while in the field, uniforms, protective equipment, access to Mental Health Consultant and Employee Assistance Program.  

Training: Forest Service recognized Chainsaw training, Technical Trails training, as well as mental health and leadership skills trainings, and potential for USFS recognized Crosscut training.

Housing: SCC-Durango will be securing a camping location for leaders and CLDPs during the spring season.

Other options, including a partnership with a local hostel, will be reviewed in the interview process.  

Multiple positions available.

Application closes December 31^st, 2025

 

Southwest Conservation Corps (SCC) is a program of the non-profit service organization, Conservation Legacy.

SCC provides youth and young adults opportunities to complete conservation projects primarily on public lands.

While serving with SCC, members receive training on job skills, conflict resolution, leadership, teamwork, and environmental stewardship.

Programs are developed using a step ladder approach to provide a progression of skill development based on a member’s needs.

 

Position Summary:  

The Conservation Crew Leader position is an opportunity to make a difference in young peoples’ lives while completing conservation projects on public and private lands.

Leaders will be mentors, educators, and facilitators for young adults, working to promote the health and resiliency of our land, air, and water.

 

Standard schedule generally consists of 8 days on-hitch (out in the field as a crew unit) and 6 days off, or 4 days on-hitch and 3 days off.

Crew Leaders may also be required to come in for an additional day each hitch cycle to complete administrative duties and check-ins with program staff.

On-hitch, crews camp together, prepare all meals together, and work together as a group to complete all projects and chores.

 

 

The Conservation Crew Leader position requires patience, a consistently positive mental attitude, mentorship, technical aptitude, focus on efficiency, and a high level of competence in the outdoors.

It also involves an administration role, where weekly paperwork is due in a timely manner to supervisors.

Finally, crew leaders must exhibit the ability to effectively work on dynamic teams and those from a variety of communities.

 
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