Front Disaster Recovery and Recreation Individual Placements - Clinch Ranger District

Front Country Disaster Recovery and Recreation Individual Placements – Clinch Ranger District

Title: Clinch Front Country Disaster Recovery and Recreation Team

Positions: Lead and Regular positions available

Location: Norton, VA;
George Washington and Jefferson National Forest Clinch Ranger District

Dates of Service: April 13th, 2026 – March 26th, 2027 (50 week term)

Pay:

• Lead: $800/week ($600 living stipend + $200 additional benefit)
• Regular: $760/week ($600 living stipend + $160 additional benefit)

Status: This is a full‑time 40 hour/week, temporary Ameri Corps National Service position.

Contact: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).

Please submit a resume and cover letter with your application. In your application, please mention if you’re interested in the Lead position. Applications are accepted until February 28th.

The Recreation Program of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest is dedicated to providing safe, sustainable, and enriching outdoor experiences for the public. The Front Country Disaster Recovery and Recreation Team will participate in disaster recovery activities related to flood and wind event damage, most notably damage caused by Hurricane Helene. Work will take place in developed and dispersed recreation sites such as campgrounds, picnic areas, Trailheads, fishing sites, and along waterways.

Tasks include storm debris removal, building and structure repair, drainage feature repair, installation and improvement of site amenities, and other recreation program support.

This position is ideal for individuals pursuing careers in natural resource management, outdoor recreation, or federal land agency service.

During the term, members will gain experience in front country developed recreation operations and receive training in carpentry/woodworking, drainage/stormwater management, project planning, recreation site operations and management, grounds improvement, chainsaw training, and light heavy equipment training. The internship prepares members for competitive recreation jobs in federal, state, local, or nonprofit agencies.

Housing may be available for these positions.

• Carpentry and woodworking tasks supporting facility repair and enhancement.
• Removing storm debris such as trees, branches, damaged structures, and site amenities.
• Correcting stormwater drainage deficiencies and damage, including excavation and installation of culverts, ditches, and surfacing materials.
• Maintaining, enhancing, and improving recreation resources.
• Working within all established safety regulations and protocols at all times.
• Working as part of a team.

• Serve as a team leader to assist with project communication and coordination.
• Manage credit card purchases and submit receipts monthly.
• Assist with data collection and monthly accomplishment reports.
• Coordinate vehicle maintenance drop‑off.

To qualify, you must be between the ages of 18 and 30 and a U.S. citizen who has received a high school diploma or GED. All offers of employment are conditional upon completion of an acceptable check of the National Sex Offender Public Registry and a federal criminal background check. Must be eligible to receive an Ameri Corps Education Award. In addition, applicants must:

• Possess a valid driver’s license.
• Obtain a First Aid/CPR certification by their first day of service.
• Be physically capable of strenuous field activities (off‑trail hiking, monitoring, survey, etc.) for 10 hours in adverse conditions (high heat, high humidity, biting insects, rough terrain, inclement weather) while carrying up to 40 lbs.

• Experience with power woodworking tools, landscaping tools, and/or hand tools.

• $7,395 Ameri Corps Segal Education Award upon successful completion of a 1,700 hour service term (award amount varies based on length of commitment and can be used for paying off federal student loans or paying tuition for a Title IV accredited college).
• Option to enroll in health, vision, and dental insurance.
• Eligibility for the Public Land Corps Hiring Authority upon successful completion – noncompetitive hiring status for two years when applying for federal positions.
• Federal student loan forbearance and interest payoff.
• Member Assistance Program – 3 free sessions of support with a counseling or work‑life balance specialist.
• Additional subject‑specific certifications and trainings may be offered (chainsaw training, pesticides, etc.).
• Depending on the academic institution and program, positions may fulfill internship requirements.
• Professional development opportunities (mentorship, resume support, alumni listserv, etc.) and exposure to natural resource career paths.