Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
Currently recruiting for the season from March 4th, 2024 to November 8th, 2024.
Vermont is home to inspiring landscapes and waterways. For close to 40 years, Vermont Youth Conservation Corps (VYCC) has engaged in environmental stewardship of these lands. Imagine waking up each morning in the woods, beside a lake, or on a historic farm to spend the day building climate resiliency or helping neighbors access farm-fresh food.
Conservation Crews serve in State Parks, National Forests and other conserved lands across the state. Food & Farm Crews serve on VYCC’s 12-acre, organic farm in beautiful Richmond, VT.
- Location
- Vermont
- Season
- Spring, Summer, and Fall
- Staff size
- About 30 full-time staff; Approximately 200 Corps Members
- Housing
- Employer housing is not available, but resources are provided to help staff find housing in our area.
- Housing details
- Some VYCC positions offer housing and others do not.
- Family housing available
- No
- Single occupancy housing available
- No
- Pet friendly
- No
- Meals
- Provided
- Cell phone service
- Some, ask for details
- Internet access
- Intermittent
About Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
At VYCC, small teams of young people work and learn together with the land. In the Conservation Program, crews complete important projects across the state. Their impact includes improving water quality, forest health, and sustainable outdoor recreation. In the Food & Farm Program, crews grow and harvest organic vegetables to address food insecurity, sustainable agriculture, and responsible land use. Across programs, Corps Members gain skills toward a number of careers. They work directly in and with local communities.
Video: The VYCC Experience
The Employee Experience
Whether planting crops on the farm, building stairways within the Vermont trail system, or improving water drainage throughout the state, individuals come to VYCC to make a difference.
Crew Leaders (20+ years old) and Crew Members (mostly 15-26 years old) come together for a paid service experience full of connection, hard work, and skill building. Crews work, live, and learn together to complete high priority and meaningful conservation projects such as trail maintenance, carpentry, land management, forestry, and watershed restoration. Farm crews work on the farm at VYCC growing produce that goes to the Health Care Share. These experiences connect crews to the land, community, and one another.
On their first day, Members and Leaders arrive on VYCC’s 400-acre campus to get familiar with staff and meet crew mates.
After training and orientation on campus, crews get to work on projects. For Conservation Crews, this could be anywhere in Vermont! The crew’s trailer and van will have all the tools and gear you need.
Meanwhile, Food & Farm crews get their hands in the soil on VYCC’s campus.
Take skills & credentials with you
Whether you arrive at VYCC with zero work experience, or you come with skills and feel ready to lead – we have a position for you.
VYCC programs are designed for Members to come back for multiple seasons. Build skills toward careers, accumulate AmeriCorps Education Awards and college credits, and earn industry-recognized credentials.
See what skills you can gain!
Read about how VYCC supports alumni after their VYCC experience.
Video: Returning to VYCC
At the end of the season there will be lots to be proud of: the bridge you built, the skills you gained, the crops you harvested, and the community you’ve been a part of. Join us if this sounds like the right adventure for you!
As I anticipated, the work was hard. We carried wet lumber up a mountain. We crushed and moved so many heavy rocks. However, I got stronger and stronger, and I was so proud to see what my body was capable of. With the help of my community around me, I had begun to thrive in an environment that was once scary and intimidating. The Corps experience had pushed me out of my comfort zone, and I was able to expand into a stronger version of myself. – Bex (they/them) Conservation Member and Food & Farm Leader
Affinity spaces at VYCC
Corps Members have opportunities to work alongside others who share some aspect of their identity. In the past, options have included Affinity Crews or Spaces for women, queer folks, and BIPOC individuals. If you are curious about what affinity opportunities might exist for your time with VYCC, ask us during your interview.
The work in the fields is very tedious. You are doing the same thing over and over again for a long time. But you are in a group of people that you come to enjoy: it becomes fun and easy to do. – Kathir (he/him) Food & Farm Member
If you are ready to dig in, with a spirit of curiosity and courage, then VYCC is the place for you.
Ideal Candidate
VYCC offers life-changing experiences to those who bring energy, enthusiasm and a commitment to personal growth.
The work is hard. Our goal is to support you with high-quality training and ongoing professional development. Your goal is to be a contributing member of the crew, working alongside others to complete projects that benefit the environment and Vermont communities. Crews and VYCC staff are all about advancing the work of growing food, building trails, cleaning up our waterways, building efficient backcountry shelters, and/or improving forest health.
What Qualities Make a Person Successful at VYCC:
- A passion for the environment.
- A positive mental attitude.
- Adaptability and flexibility.
- A commitment to serving the whole term.
- A growth mindset.
Room and Board
All Camping crews receive room and board while on crew. That includes a food budget, fresh produce from the farm, and all the necessary camping gear.
The Food & Farm Program is known for its farm-fresh lunches. Each day, Farm crews prepare lunch from produce grown right here on campus.
Check out Campus & Camping Life to learn more!
Video: VYCC Campus Tour
Employee Perks
VYCC offers paid positions that come with many other benefits. Compensation ranges from a bi-weekly stipend of $962–$1,500 and potential eligibility for an AmeriCorps Education Award. Depending on the position, other benefits include:
- CPR Certification, Wilderness First Aid Training, Game of Logging
- On the job learning opportunities to expand technical skill knowledge through the season
- Career pathways support provided by VYCC's Community Engagement Manager
- Access to our robust Alumni network for future adventures and career assistance
- Eligible for AmeriCorps Segal Education Award upon successful completion of service (service terms vary by member)
- Eligible for student loan forbearance
- Potential to earn up to 12 free college credits
For more specifics about compensation and benefits refer to our available positions.
I did VYCC because I knew it would open up opportunities in the future, I got to work outside, and work with an organization trying to make a difference. —Jack, Crew Member & Leader
Getting Here and Getting Around
Getting Here
Vermont Youth Conservation Corps operates on a 400-acre campus in Richmond Vermont. Campus offers conserved forestland, a certified organic farm, and two historic barns.
VYCC is 20 minutes from Burlington (airport, train station, and bus service)
Address: 1949 East Main Street, Richmond, VT 05477
Getting Around
VYCC provides 10-passenger vans that crews use to drive and from their project sites.
For Fun
During downtime from fieldwork, VYCC Members can embark on adventures across Vermont’s inspiring landscape. Hikers can explore lush trails right in our backyard---our 400-acre campus has its own trail system! VYCC is only a short drive away from the Camel’s Hump Trail, a challenging yet rewarding hike leading to a summit with panoramic views of the Lake Champlain Valley. For a refreshing break, Richmond (and surrounding towns) offer many swimming holes, providing a refuge to cool off and unwind. Additionally, VYCC Members can experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Burlington Waterfront, enjoying local eateries, live music, and beautiful sunsets over Lake Champlain.
Current Job Openings
2024 Conservation Field Supervisor
Engaged in all elements of the season, Field Supervisors support planning logistics before the season, train Crew Members and Leaders, and directly support crews in the field. Through regular field visits to their crews and check-ins with their Leaders, they support the development of an inclusive and productive crew. Field Supervisors are experienced in VYCC project areas and have prior experience leading or teaching young people. They often help solve complex problems and respond to interpersonal challenges in the field independently.
Dates: April 29th - November 8th
Schedule: Monday to Friday, with some weekends and overnights required
Benefits: Eligible for medical and dental insurance, Health Savings Account (HSA) with matching contribution; disability and group life insurance and compensated time off and sick time with supervisor approval
VYCC engages young people in hands-on projects that benefit Vermont’s environment and communities. Field Supervisors are essential to the success of any Conservation Crew and their efforts have a significant impact on habitat, water quality, and outdoor recreation in Vermont.
Follow the link to learn more specifics: Positions – Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
Advanced Build Day Crew Member (AmeriCorps)
Build a 93’ x 27’ pole barn with a fully insulated and heated bay on VYCC’s campus! This is an opportunity for people with some carpentry experience to build on existing skills. Crew Leaders and VYCC staff will be ready to teach and support. This is not a camping crew.
Dates: June 3 – August 10 2024; AND/OR August 26 – November 2, 2024
Schedule: Monday to Friday
AmeriCorps Education Award upon completion of service: $1,459.26; if completing both sessions: $2,626.27
Age requirement: 18+
This is not a camping position.
VYCC engages young people in hands-on projects that benefit Vermont’s environment and communities. Crew Members are essential to the success of any Conservation Crew and their efforts have a significant impact on habitat, water quality, and outdoor recreation in Vermont.
Follow the link to learn more specifics: Positions – Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
Advanced Forest Crew Member (AmeriCorps)
Improve the health of Vermont’s forests. Fell trees to improve wildlife habitat and make forests more resilient. Complete Game of Logging training; this time is paid and the course cost is covered. Depart Richmond each Monday morning, camp and work until a Friday return to Richmond. Crew Leaders, project partners and VYCC staff will teach the crew how to do each project. Tools and most camping gear are provided.
Dates: June 3 – August 10 2024; AND/OR August 26 – November 2, 2024
Schedule: Monday to Friday
AmeriCorps Education Award upon completion of service: $1,459.26; if completing both sessions: $2,626.27
Age requirement: 18+
These Members camp with their crew during the work week.
VYCC engages young people in hands-on projects that benefit Vermont’s environment and communities. Crew Members are essential to the success of any Conservation Crew and their efforts have a significant impact on habitat, water quality, and outdoor recreation in Vermont.
Follow the link to learn more specifics: Positions – Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
Advanced Trail Crew Member (AmeriCorps)
Take on VYCC’s most rugged and technical trails projects. This is an opportunity for people with trail work experience to build on existing skills and work in the backcountry. Projects include new trail construction, maintenance, and dry stone masonry. Depart Richmond each Monday morning, camp and work until a Friday return to Richmond. Tools and most camping gear are provided.
Dates: June 3 – August 10 2024; AND/OR August 26 – November 2, 2024
Schedule: Monday to Friday
AmeriCorps Education Award upon completion of service: $1,459.26; if completing both sessions: $2,626.27
Age requirement: 18+
These Members camp with their crew during the work week.
VYCC engages young people in hands-on projects that benefit Vermont’s environment and communities. Crew Members are essential to the success of any Conservation Crew and their efforts have a significant impact on habitat, water quality, and outdoor recreation in Vermont.
Follow the link to learn more specifics: Positions – Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
Camping Crew Member, Queer Affinity (AmeriCorps)
Explore and improve multiple places in Vermont by completing trail, water quality, and/or carpentry projects with people who identify as LGBTQ+. Depart Richmond each Monday morning, camp and work until a Friday return to Richmond. Crew Leaders, project partners and VYCC staff will teach the crew how to do each project. Tools and most camping gear are provided.
Dates: September 3 – November 2, 2024
Schedule: Monday to Friday
AmeriCorps Education Award upon completion of service: $1,459.26
Age requirement: 18+
These Members camp with their crew during the work week.
VYCC engages young people in hands-on projects that benefit Vermont’s environment and communities. Crew Members are essential to the success of any Conservation Crew and their efforts have a significant impact on habitat, water quality, and outdoor recreation in Vermont.
Follow the link to learn more specifics: Positions – Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
Camping Crew Member, Women’s Affinity (AmeriCorps)
Explore and improve multiple places in Vermont by completing trail, water quality, and/or carpentry projects with people who identify as women. Depart Richmond each Monday morning, camp and work until a Friday return to Richmond. Crew Leaders, project partners and VYCC staff will teach the crew how to do each project. Tools and most camping gear are provided.
Dates: September 3 – November 2, 2024
Schedule: Monday to Friday
AmeriCorps Education Award upon completion of service: $1,459.26
Age requirement: 18+
These Members camp with their crew during the work week.
VYCC engages young people in hands-on projects that benefit Vermont’s environment and communities. Crew Members are essential to the success of any Conservation Crew and their efforts have a significant impact on habitat, water quality, and outdoor recreation in Vermont.
Follow the link to learn more specifics: Positions – Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
Camping Crew Member (AmeriCorps)
Explore and improve multiple places in Vermont by completing trail, water quality, and/or carpentry projects. Depart Richmond each Monday morning, camp and work until a Friday return to Richmond. Crew Leaders, project partners and VYCC staff will teach the crew how to do each project. Tools and most camping gear are provided.
Dates: September 3 – November 2, 2024
Schedule: Monday to Friday
AmeriCorps Education Award upon completion of service: $1,459.26
Age requirement: 18+
These Members camp with their crew during the work week.
VYCC engages young people in hands-on projects that benefit Vermont’s environment and communities. Crew Members are essential to the success of any Conservation Crew and their efforts have a significant impact on habitat, water quality, and outdoor recreation in Vermont.
Follow the link to learn more specifics: Positions – Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
Camping Crew Leader
Co-lead a crew in trail, water quality, and carpentry projects. Depart Richmond each Monday morning, camp and work until a Friday return to Richmond.
Dates: May 27 – August 10, 2024
Schedule: Monday to Friday; full time
Age Requirement: 21+
Crew Leaders camp with their crews during the work week.
VYCC engages young people in hands-on projects that benefit Vermont’s environment and communities. The work of a Conservation Crew may include trail construction and maintenance, carpentry and construction, water quality improvement, and/or forest management. Conservation Crew Leaders are essential to the success of any Conservation Crew and their efforts have a significant impact on habitat, water quality, and outdoor recreation in Vermont.
Follow the link to learn more specifics: Positions – Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
Day Crew Leader
Co-lead a crew where Members get to work in their own community. Locations: Burlington, Rutland, Vergennes, Woodstock. Projects include trail and water quality work.
Dates: May 27 – August 10, 2024
Schedule: Monday to Friday; full time
Age Requirement: 21+
Crew Leaders camp with their crews during the work week.
VYCC engages young people in hands-on projects that benefit Vermont’s environment and communities. Conservation Crew Leaders are essential to the success of any Conservation Crew and their efforts have a significant impact on habitat, water quality, and outdoor recreation in Vermont.
Follow the link to learn more specifics: Positions – Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
Advanced Trail Crew Leader
Co-lead the Advanced Trail Crew to complete projects including new trail construction, maintenance, and dry stone masonry. Advanced Trail Crews often work in backcountry settings.
Dates: May 27 – November 2, 2024
Schedule: Monday to Friday; full time
Age Requirement: 21+
Crew Leaders camp with their crews during the work week.
VYCC engages young people in hands-on projects that benefit Vermont’s environment and communities. Conservation Crew Leaders are essential to the success of any Conservation Crew and their efforts have a significant impact on habitat, water quality, and outdoor recreation in Vermont.
Follow the link to learn more specifics: Positions – Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
Food & Farm Production Crew Member
Work in farm fields and high tunnels, wash and pack produce, and cook with the most recent harvest. Learn to operate small equipment, set up irrigation, and harvest sensitive crops. This is an AmeriCorps position.
Dates: May 20 – August 16, 2024
Schedule: Monday to Thursday 6:30 – 3:00 OR 9:00 – 6:00; and Fridays 8:00 – 3:00
Education Award upon completion of service: $1,824.07
Age requirement: 18+
This is not a camping crew. Farm-fresh lunch is provided daily.
VYCC believes in the power that food has to connect us with the land, our community, and each other. On the farm, young people engage in organic vegetable farming. Produce grown by Corps Members is distributed to more than 400 families through the Health Care Share project-- a public health initiative that connects Vermont families to locally-grown produce through their medical provider.
Follow the link to learn more specifics: Positions – Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
Summer Food & Nourishment Leader
Work with crews in the kitchen: teach cooking skills and guide crews through making the daily lunch that is shared with everyone working on the farm. This is an AmeriCorps position.
Dates: May 20 – August 16, 2024
Schedule: Monday to Friday, typically 8:00 – 4:30
Education Award upon completion of Service: $1,824.07
Age Requirement: 20+
VYCC believes in the power that food has to connect us with the land, our community, and each other. On the farm, young people engage in organic vegetable farming. Produce grown by Corps Members is distributed to more than 400 families through the Health Care Share project-- a public health initiative that connects Vermont families to locally-grown produce through their medical provider.
Follow the link to learn more specifics: Positions – Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
Food & Nourishment Leader
Work with crews in the kitchen: teach cooking skills and guide crews through making the daily lunch that is shared with everyone working on the farm. This is an AmeriCorps position.
Dates: March 20 - October 25
Schedule: Monday to Friday, 8:00-4:30
Education Award upon completion of Service: $4826.50
Age Requirement: 20+
VYCC believes in the power that food has to connect us with the land, our community, and each other. On the farm, young people engage in organic vegetable farming. Produce grown by Corps Members is distributed to more than 400 families through the Health Care Share project-- a public health initiative that connects Vermont families to locally-grown produce through their medical provider.
Follow the link to learn more specifics: Positions – Vermont Youth Conservation Corps
How to Apply
VYCC fills positions on a rolling basis. Preference is given to early applicants. To apply, visit our website and learn more about our available positions. After you’ve decided which position(s) you’d like to apply for, complete the application on our website. A VYCC staff member will reach out to you within 2-3 days after you submit your application.
The most important things for prospective applicants to know is that all positions are paid, there are spots for those with experience and people new to the field, applying is easy, and you’ll make a huge impact!
VYCC is committed to being an organization that is inclusive and welcoming. VYCC is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Contact Info
- Bo Malcolm
- bo.malcolm@vycc.org
- (802) 434-3969 Ext. 131
- www.vycc.org
