Wildland Fire Fellow

What We Can Achieve Together

Selected trainees in the Wildland Fire Fellowship work as part of the Southern Illinois Interagency Habitat and Fuels Crew for a term of up to two years. As part of our team, you’ll gain hands-on experience in the preparation and implementation of prescribed fire, wildfire suppression tactics and techniques, safely operating and maintaining equipment, invasive plant management, forest stand improvement, and other stewardship activities. Experience is complemented by a robust training program consisting of formal and informal training related to Fire and Aviation Management (FAM) and wholistic management practices used in the restoration and preservation of a large, varied and unique landscape. You’ll work alongside a cadre of mentors from The Nature Conservancy, US Forest Service, and others in growing your skills, knowledge, and connections for the next steps in your career.

Responsibilities & Scope

Perform other stewardship activities when conditions are not conducive to prescribed fire.

Works in team forward, goal-oriented, and sometimes high-stress environment.

Works under close supervision.

Ability to perform physically demanding work in variable weather conditions, remote locations, hazardous environments, and terrain.

Complete a final project that addresses a problem or knowledge gap within Fire and Aviation Management and showcases skills learned and developed during the Fellowship.

Some projects and activities may require long days (10+ hour shifts), working weekends, and extended out-of-state travel. Out-of-state assignments are optional and include prescribed fire assistance in the late spring, wildfire assignments in the summer, and training opportunities throughout the year.

This is a full-time (35+ hours a week), term-based (up to 2 years) position located in Carterville, Illinois.

We’re Looking for You

Looking for an opportunity to kindle your career in wildland fire and fuel your professional development? The Wildland Fire Fellowship is a US Forest Service funded initiative to increase capacity within the fire service by preparing individuals new to fire management for entry/mid-level Fire and Aviation Management (FAM) positions with the US Forest Service and similar agencies. The fellowship provides experience, training, professional licenses and qualifications, and opportunities to network with federal and state agencies, and non-governmental organizations in Illinois and beyond. Apply today to build your resume and confidence on the fireline with the world’s leading conservation organization!

What You’ll Bring

High school diploma or GED and 6 months of related experience/education.

Must be able to obtain the qualifications for Firefighter Type 2 (FFT2), including Introduction to ICS (IS-100), National Incident Management System (NIMS), an Introduction (IS-700), Human Factors on the Fire Line (L-180), Firefighter Training (S-130), and Introduction to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190), and one training burn serving under the supervision of a qualified FFT2 as a requirement of this position. See TNC Fire Management Manual .

Ability to pass the Work Capacity Test (pack test) at the Arduous Level by completing a 3-mile walk with a 45-pound weight vest in 45 minutes or less within first 90 days of hire.

Work Capacity Test Administration from the Interagency Standards for Fire and Fire Aviation Operations (pg 177 or 182).

Personnel taking the WCT will only complete the level of testing (pack, field, walk) required by the highest fitness level identified for a position on their incident qualification card. Employees shall not take the WCT unless they have an incident qualification card qualification that requires it and only at the fitness level required by that position as identified in the PMS 310-1 or agency-specific guidance or policy. Treadmills are not approved for work capacity testing.

Must be able to obtain related licenses or certifications as required. (e.g., First Aid, CPR, Pesticide Applicator).

Desired Qualifications

Multi-lingual skills and multi-cultural or cross-cultural experience appreciated.

6 months - 1 year related experience.

Experience operating and maintaining various kinds of equipment.

Must have valid driver’s license and good driving record.

Ability and willingness to follow instructions from colleagues and partners.

This position requires a valid driver's license and compliance with TNC’s Auto Safety Program . Employees may not drive Conservancy-owned/leased vehicles, rental cars, or personal vehicles on behalf of the Conservancy if considered "high risk drivers." To learn more about the Auto Safety Program, visit the Auto Safety information page . Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement, which may include a review of the prospective employee's motor vehicle record.

Salary Information

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $21-$22 per hour (subject to required tax withholding). 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. Please note countries outside the USA would have a different pay range in the local currency based on the local labor market, and not tied to USA pay or ranges. Your geographic location will be confirmed during the recruitment.

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. Whether it’s career development, flexible schedules, or a rewarding mission, there’s many reasons to love life inside TNC. Want a better insight to TNC? Check out our TNC Talent playlist on YouTube to hear stories from staff or visit Glassdoor .

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.”

What We Bring

Since 1951, TNC has been doing work you can believe in. Through grassroots action, we have grown from a small non-profit into one of the most effective and wide-reaching environmental organizations in the world. Thanks to more than 1 million members, over 400 scientists, and the dedicated efforts of our diverse staff and partners, we impact conservation around the world!

TNC offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including health care benefits, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) plan with an 8% employer match, parental leave, accrued paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, other life and work well-being benefits. Learn more about our Benefits and Perks here .

We’re proud to offer a flexible work environment that supports of the health and well-being of the people we employ.

Our recruiting process includes a rolling interview process to ensure we engage applicants in a timely manner. This means we may review applications in the order in which they are received. Once a strong candidate pool is identified, the role will be unposted. The timeline may vary depending on the expressed interest in the role, so we highly encourage candidates to apply as soon as possible.

The Nature Conservancy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity includes the recognition that our conservation mission is best advanced by the leadership and contributions of people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and culture. Recruiting and mentoring staff to create an inclusive organization is a priority, and we encourage applicants from all cultures, races, colors, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, military, protected veteran status or other status protected by law.

The successful applicant must meet the requirements of The Nature Conservancy's background screening process.

Do you have military experience? Visit our U.S. Military Skills Translator to match your military experience with our current job openings!

TNC is committed to offering accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in our job application process. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please send a note to applyhelp@tnc.org with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.