SC Mountains Burn Crew Member

About the role

The Nature Conservancy's South Carolina office wants a Burn Crew Member to help its partners carry out prescribed fire operations, planning and preparation. The crew works mainly in the mountainous forests of upstate South Carolina, with some work in the Midlands and Coastal Plain, learning to burn in varied terrain and fuel types. The position starts on 11 January 2027 and ends on 28 May 2027 (end date negotiable), is based in Greenville, SC, and includes housing.

Key responsibilities

• Assist Conservancy staff in preparing and implementing prescribed burns on TNC and partner lands, including overnight trips of up to a week for out-of-state or other in-state operations.
• Keep up with new burn techniques and equipment and maintain or grow professional fire certification credentials.
• Occasionally assist on wildland fire operations with federal, state or private partners, or travel to other parts of the state or out of state.
• Build and maintain relationships in the professional fire community and the local community.

Required profile

• Qualified as a Firefighter Type 2 (FFT2), including the listed introductory courses and one supervised training burn.
• Able to earn a NWCG arduous physical fitness rating (carrying a 45 lb pack 3 miles in under 45 minutes).
• Willingness to travel extensively, work weekends and follow a flexible schedule.
• Valid driver's license and good driving record; must comply with the Auto Safety Program and complete a Vehicle Use Agreement.
• Willingness to wear lace-up leather boots of at least 8 inches and to work physically, sometimes in bad weather.

Required skills

• First Aid/CPR certification or ability to obtain it.
• Desired: S-112/S-212 course with Feller Qualification or chainsaw operation experience.
• Desired: medical experience such as Wilderness First Responder or EMT.
• Desired: experience with 4WD vehicles, Type-6 engines, ATVs/UTVs, chainsaws and drip torches.

What we offer

• Starting pay of $20 - $22 per hour, depending on qualifications, skills and experience.
• Housing provided.
• Health care, flexible spending account, 401(k) with 8% employer match, parental leave, paid time off, life insurance, disability coverage and an employee assistance program.