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Oregon Conservation Corps Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Oregon Conservation Corps information

What is the Oregon Conservation Corps?

The Oregon Conservation Corps (OCC) is a state-funded program that provides young adults with opportunities to work on natural resource projects, such as wildfire fuels reduction, habitat restoration, and trail maintenance across Oregon. The OCC aims to reduce wildfire risks, promote environmental stewardship, and provide valuable job training and educational experiences. Members typically work in teams and gain hands-on experience, leadership skills, and certifications that can help them pursue careers in conservation and natural resources.

What types of projects do members of the Oregon Conservation Corps typically work on, and how do these projects impact local communities?

Members of the Oregon Conservation Corps generally engage in hands-on environmental projects such as wildfire fuel reduction, invasive species removal, habitat restoration, and trail maintenance. These projects are often conducted in collaboration with local land management agencies, non-profits, and community organizations. The work not only helps protect Oregon's natural landscapes and wildlife but also contributes to public safety and recreational access. Participants gain valuable field experience, teamwork skills, and a deeper understanding of conservation practices, all of which can open doors to future environmental careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a member of the Oregon Conservation Corps, and why are they important?

To thrive as a member of the Oregon Conservation Corps, you need a solid understanding of environmental stewardship, basic land management, and physical fitness, often supported by high school completion or equivalent. Familiarity with tools like chainsaws, hand tools, GPS units, and safety equipment is typically required, along with completion of relevant safety training or certifications such as first aid/CPR. Strong teamwork, communication, and adaptability are essential soft skills for working effectively in variable outdoor conditions and diverse teams. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring safe, effective conservation work that benefits Oregon's landscapes and communities.

What is the difference between Oregon Conservation Corps vs Oregon Conservation Technician?

AspectOregon Conservation CorpsOregon Conservation Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require certifications in first aid or CPRSimilar credentials; often requires basic environmental or conservation training
Work EnvironmentFieldwork in outdoor settings, conservation projects, trail work, habitat restorationField and project-based work, often supporting conservation initiatives
Employer & IndustryState and federal agencies, non-profits, conservation programsGovernment agencies, environmental organizations, conservation projects

The Oregon Conservation Corps and Oregon Conservation Technician roles both involve outdoor conservation work, often with similar credentials and work environments. The Corps typically offers broader program participation, while Technicians focus on specific project support. Both roles serve conservation goals within Oregon's environmental agencies and organizations.

What are popular job titles related to Oregon Conservation Corps jobs in Oregon?

For Oregon Conservation Corps jobs in Oregon, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Oregon Conservation Corps jobs in Oregon look for?

The top searched job categories for Oregon Conservation Corps jobs in Oregon are:

Infographic showing various Oregon Conservation Corps job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - John Day Lock and Dam - Natural Resource Maintenance Individual Pl...

Northwest Youth Corps

Rufus, OR • On-site

$7.6K/wk

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Northwest Youth Corps

Individual Placement

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

John Day Lock & Dam - Rufus, OR

Position Title: Natural Resource Maintenance Individual Placement

Position Summary:

John Day Dam is recruiting one 480-hour individual placements for up to 12 weeks beginning August of 2026 and end October/November 2026. The individual placement will support Natural Resource Management on U.S. Army Corps lands at the John Day Lock & Dam. Major duties are related to assisting personnel in recreation, natural resource management, and related activities at the John Day Lock & Dam.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Major duties are related to assisting personnel in recreation, natural resource management, and related activities at the John Day Lock & Dam. The Individual Placement will assist in the following:

  • Natural resource maintenance and conservation projects, including invasive species removal (40%)
  • Park and Recreation Site Management (40%)
  • Boat Operator Training (20%)

*Please note percentages describe the estimated time allocated to each task over the course of the term.

All work under this term shall be performed in accordance with EM 385-1-1, "U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Safety and Health Requirements Manual," and FED-OSHA regulations. EM 385-1-1 can be downloaded from: https://www.usace.army.mil/Missions/Safety-and-Occupational-Health/Safety-and-Health-Requirements-Manual/

Required Qualifications:

  • Current Driver's License
  • Ages 18-30 (up to 35 for veterans)
  • U.S. Citizen or lawful, permanent resident
  • Must pass a background/driver check
  • Must have a high school diploma or GED
  • Ability to drive government vehicle upwards of 200 miles roundtrip in one day to get to work sites
  • Good written and verbal communication skills and a positive attitude
  • Ability to work outdoors in remote settings, in inclement weather, and on uneven ground
  • Willingness to work independently in an outdoor setting at a campground gatehouse
  • Enjoys engaging in customer service
  • Able to walk campground and interact with campground visitors, campground hosts, and volunteers
  • Able to address campground visitor's needs, resolving their problems and complaints
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 30 lbs
  • Personal transportation

Desired Qualifications:

  • Strong collaborating and communication skills.
  • Interested in providing educational programs on water safety, environment, local wildlife, the historical and cultural relevance of landmarks
  • Willingness to learn about John Day Lock and Dam history and importance
  • Enthusiastic about work in conservation, recreation, and environmental and cultural stewardship
  • Compassion towards visitors and situations with adversity
  • Knowledge of Northwest natural resources, flora, and fauna
  • Must be comfortable riding in and working from a boat and kayak
  • Knowledge of Excel spreadsheets and Microsoft Word

Duty Location:

Individual placement will report daily to the USACE Ranger office at John Day Lock & Dam (Interstate 84 Exit 109, Rufus, Oregon 97050, in the Ranger Office). Incumbent must arrange their own transportation to and from the office. No public transportation opportunities.

Terms of Employment:

Individual placement will complete the 12-week program (480 Hours) starting August through October/November, 2026. Dates of service are flexible to accommodate applicant availability. Individual placement will average 40 hours of labor per week, minus holidays. Individual placements are responsible for providing their own personal transportation and food.

Program Benefits:

Individual placements will earn a total living allowance of $7,680 for the 12-week term. The living allowance will be divided into monthly payments over the course of the 12-week term. The living allowance is taxable income. Additionally, there is a reimbursement fund of $54.10 available for relevant training during the term.

Application Instructions

_____________________________________________________________________

Application Deadline: Open Until Filled

Interviews: Will occur as qualified applications are received.

Type of position: Individual Placement

Service Dates: August – October/November 2026 (start date is negotiable to accommodate applicant schedules)

Length of Term: 12 Weeks (minimum of 480 hours)

How to apply:

Please submit a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references and completely fill out the application form found at https://nwyouthcorps.workbrightats.com/jobsearch/?job_board_classification=Internships

Please select "John Day Lock and Dam – Natural Resource Steward Individual Placement" when applying.

Additional Information

If you have questions about the position, please reach out to Northwest Youth Corps Internship Department at interns@nwyouthcorps.org or 208-625-8402, or Supervisory Natural Resource Specialist Sylvia Gentilcore at Sylvia.T.Gentilcore@usace.army.mil or 541-739-1134.

All job offers are contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background check (criminal history and driving history).