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Position details:
- This job posting will be open until filled and will hire two individuals.
- This is a seasonal, full-time (40 hours/week) position is anticipated to start March 30, 2026 and end on June 1, 2026.
- This position is based out of Cushing, Minnesota on TNC’s Lake Alexander Preserve.
- Shared housing and basic utilities are provided by TNC to the employee upon signing and agreeing to housing terms. The value of the housing will be considered taxable income vs charged rent.
- Hourly rate range: $18.00 - 19.05/hour dependent on experience.
What We Can Achieve Together:
The Fire in the Forest program focuses most of its efforts in Central Minnesota in mixed conifer and hardwood forests. As one of our Burn Crew Members, you will participate in prescribed burning operations in partnership with other non-profit organizations, state and federal agencies, and Tribes. This includes ignition, holding, mop-up, and post-burn patrol. You will also be responsible for burn unit preparation, equipment maintenance, timber stand improvement projects, invasive species control, and other projects as assigned that are essential to fire operations and ecosystem restoration.
To support Burn Crew Members’ professional development, you will be introduced to regional prescribed burning ecology, equipment, and practices, and you may be offered trainee opportunities to advance your qualifications. In addition, you shall work to build and maintain relationships in the professional wildland fire community and in local communities where TNC works. You may gain experience on wildfires should you elect to do so and if opportunities arise.
Candidates who are not currently qualified as a Fire Fighter Type 2 (FFT2) may complete the required online training before your first day of work and complete the hands‑on component of the training as part of your onboarding work time.
Some overtime is expected, and as part of the crew, you may be asked to travel along the Minnesota‑Canada border to the bluff lands of southeast Minnesota. This may include overnight stays for multiple days for burn opportunities. You will work outdoors in variable weather conditions, in remote locations, at times on difficult and uneven terrain, and under physically demanding circumstances.
We’re Looking for You:
Ready to be a part of TNC’s fire operations? Join us as a Fire in the Forest Burn Crew Member (BCM) and be at the heart of the action! From ignition to mop‑up, you’ll tackle tasks like preparing firebreaks and monitoring post‑burn activities. But that’s not all – your journey with us means continuous growth. Our program has a strong commitment to training its staff, so you can look forward to gaining many new experiences and skills both on and off the fire line. 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. Come join TNC and apply today!
What You’ll Bring:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Must be able to obtain the qualifications for 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.
- Experience operating various types of equipment.
- Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required (e.g., First Aid, CPR).
- Must have a valid driver’s license.
Salary Information:
The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $18.00 - 19.05. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidate’s actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including, for example, the candidate’s location, qualifications, specific skills, and experience.
Who We Are:
The Nature Conservancy’s mission is to protect the lands and waters upon which all life depends. As a science‑based organization, we create innovative, on‑the‑ground solutions to our world’s toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. We’re rooted in our mission and guided by our values, which include respect for all people, communities, and cultures.
One goal is to cultivate an inclusive work environment so that all our colleagues around the globe feel a sense of belonging and that their unique contributions to our mission are valued. In addition to the requirements in our job postings, we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicant’s unique experience. Please apply – we’d love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC, “you’ll join for the mission, and stay for the people.”