Northwoods Module Burn Crew Member

Position details:
This job posting will be open until filled and will hire three 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 Ely Minnesota in the USFS Kawashiwi Ranger District office.
Shared housing and basic utilities are provided by TNC at no cost to the employee upon signing and agreeing to housing terms and the employee must live in the provided housing to meet the needs and nature of the position and to maximize the effectiveness of the crew.
Hourly rate range: $20.00 - 21.15/hour dependent on experience.

The Northwoods program partners closely with the Superior National Forest The Nature Conservancys Northeast Minnesota Fuels Planner and other partners in the area. 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 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 in 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 their 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.

• High school diploma or equivalent.

• Must be able to obtain the qualifications for Prescribed Fire Crew Member (RXCM) or 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.

• Must achieve physical fitness standards as determined by the local Prescribed Fire Manager and the 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 valid drivers license.

This position requires a valid drivers license and compliance with TNCs 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 under the FAQ section. Employment in this position will be contingent upon completion of a Vehicle Use Agreement which may include a review of the prospective employees motor vehicle record.

The starting pay range for a candidate selected for this position is generally within the range of $20.00 - 21.15/hour. This range only applies to candidates whose country of employment is the USA. Where a successful candidates actual pay will fall within this range will be based on a variety of factors including for example the candidates 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 Conservancys 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 worlds toughest challenges so that we can create a world in which people and nature thrive. Were rooted in our mission and guided by our values which include respect for all people communities and cultures. Whether its career development flexible schedules or a rewarding mission theres 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 addition to the requirements in our job postings we recognize that people come with talent and experiences outside of a job and consider each applicants unique experience. Please apply wed love to hear from you. To quote a popular saying at TNC youll 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.

Were 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 Conservancys 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 with Request for Accommodation in the subject line.