Abandoned Mine Lands Technician

GEOSCIENTISTS IN FORESTS PROGRAM

Stewards Individual Placements and the US Forest Service will host an Applicant Webinar for all interested candidates on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 3 PM ET / 1 PM MT. Please register to attend or review the recording here: Geoscientists in Forests | Stewards Individual Placement Program

Position Title:  Abandoned Mine Lands Technical Support - AmeriCorps

Conservation Legacy Program: Stewards Individual Placements

Site Location: 1008 Hwy 64, Kamiah, ID 83536

Application Timeline: Preference given to applicants that submit application by January 29, 2026

Terms of Service:

•                  Start Date: 5/18/2026

•                  End Date: 8/7/2026

•                  AmeriCorps Slot Classification: 450 Hour Slot (12 Weeks)

GEOSCIENTISTS IN FORESTS PROGRAM:

The USDA Forest Service Washington Office Lands, Minerals and Geology (WO-LMG) in partnership with the Conservation Legacy is pleased to announce the 2026 Geoscientists in Forests (GSF) Program offering paid professional development opportunities to emerging geoscientists that leverage Agency capacity to conduct critical geologic work in alignment with the administration’s priorities (see Executive Orders and Secretarial Memos listed below).

The GSF Program specializes in individual placements that address geoscience-related needs and management priorities. The program is designed for individuals aged 18-30, and veterans up to age 35. Projects involve predominantly field-oriented research, inventory and monitoring, and geoscience interpretation for agency staff and the public. GSF programs support Forest Service responsibilities under Executive Orders on American energy (EOs 14154, 14156, 14241), Secretarial Memo 1078-005, and the Public Land Corps Act’s workforce development focus.  

The primary purposes of the Geoscientists in Forests Program are to:

•                  Address critical geoscience needs on National Forest System lands;

•                  Foster geoscience career growth to support mineral and energy development in alignment with the administration’s priorities;

•                  Provide on-the-ground geoscience training and immersive paid developmental experience for emerging geoscience professionals under Forest Service mentorship

POSITION:

The Geoscientists in Forests Program is seeking geoscience professionals to address critical needs on National Forest System lands. Stewards Individual Placements (Stewards), a program of Conservation Legacy, provides individuals with AmeriCorps service and career opportunities to strengthen communities and preserve our natural resources. The USDA Forest Service - Lands, Minerals, and Geology in partnership with Stewards will host an Abandoned Mine Lands Technical Support at the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest.

Currently, the Forest needs assistance in furthering the Abandoned Mine Land (AML) monitoring and inventory efforts.  This would include visiting AML sites to assess hazards, collect monitoring data, and preliminary reclamation work planning.  Work and projects can be designed to accommodate any level of field-going activities, from computer and office based GIS work with ArcPro and Survey123, to overnight remote monitoring. The specific work is dependent on the participants’ interests; there is room to customize the project to meet the applicant’s interests and skill set. Participants may also assist in ongoing monitoring and inventory efforts related to the Mineral/Geology program and other aid resources such as hydrology and fisheries in program administration across the Nez Perce - Clearwater National Forest.

Data gathered and synthesized by the participant will be used in a larger report to inform Forest leadership.  The information gathered will help develop effective mitigation measures, potential hazards, and advise changes to the decision-making process regarding site reclamation needs.  This supports the AML program by aiding in the planning, development, and reclamation of AML sites across the Forest and supports all aspects of Forest use by both the public and in forest management.

The deliverables created through this project may include written summary report; including areal estimates of AML sites, updated AML GIS shapefile and associated maps, and a preliminary summary and design for site reclamation at the end of their service.

Description of Duties:

·        Conduct field inspections of abandoned mine features on National Forest System lands

·        Identify and document public safety hazards such as open shafts, unstable workings, audits, portals, and subsidence areas

·        Monitor site access and signs of unauthorized entry, vandalism, or recreational use

·        Evaluate existing closures (gates, backfills, bat-friendly structures) and identify maintenance needs

·        Assess environmental concerns including mine drainage, water quality issues, eroding waste rock piles, and vegetation disturbance

·        Collect water, soil, or sediment samples following Forest Service protocols as needed

·        Use GPS/GIS tools to map mine features, hazard zones, and access routes; update Forest Service AML databases

·        Prepare detailed field notes, photographs, and spatial data for official AML records

·        Support interdisciplinary teams (geology, hydrology, engineering, wildlife, heritage) during AML assessments and project planning

·        Assist with prioritizing AML sites for remediation or closure based on hazard levels and environmental impacts

·        Participate in pre-work surveys and Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) to ensure safety during field operations

·        Prepare written reports and contribute to internal briefings on AML site conditions and recommended actions

Qualifications:

·        Willing to work well with others and be professional in the work environment, both in the office and in the field. 

·        Computer skills in M.S. Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

·        Good organizational skills and time management skills

·        For field-based projects, the applicant should have basic orientation skills, knowledge of GPS technology, and must be comfortable hiking in steep cross-country terrain or conducting work in stream channels with fast moving water.

• United States citizen, United States national, or a lawful permanent resident alien
• Applicants must be between ages of 18-30 years old, or up to 35 for veteran, based on Public Land Corps Act of 1993 authorizing this AmeriCorps opportunity.
• Has received a high school diploma or equivalency certificate; or has not dropped out of secondary school to enroll as an AmeriCorps participant and agrees to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent prior to using the education award.
• Agrees to provide information to establish eligibility and to complete a National Service Criminal History Check.

·        Able to pass a federal background check for Forest Service credentialing and technology access.

·        Over 21 and possess a valid driver's license (or have had a valid driver’s license for 3 or more years) and a good driving record if needed to drive a government vehicle.

Preferred Qualifications: 

·        Have completed at least 2 years toward an undergraduate degree in geology, hydrogeology, geotechnical engineering, earth/environmental sciences, or closely related field. 

·        Have completed a bachelors or at least have completed courses in field geology, geomorphology, stratigraphy, structural geology, and mineralogy.

·        Previous research, field, and writing experience

·        Experience with ArcGIS and database management

Additional Position and Community Information

·        From dry, rugged canyons of the Salmon River to the moist cedar forests of the Selway drainage to the rolling uplands of the Palouse, the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests offers something for everyone. This vast, differentiated area is managed to provide a variety of goods and services including breathtaking scenery, wilderness, wildlife, fisheries, timber harvest, livestock grazing, mining, pristine water quality and a wide array of recreation opportunities. The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests is best known for its wild character. Nearly half of the forest is designated Wilderness. They also sport three rivers popular with thrill-seeking floaters—the Selway, the Lochsa and the Salmon.

·        The Forest sits within the furthest north parts of the Cretaceous granites and granodiorites of the Idaho batholith and contains large swaths of metasedimentary rocks of the Belt Supergroup.  It is lapped to the west by Columbia River Plateau, whose large basalt flows add to the array of the geology on the Forest.  For more information on Idaho geology check out the Idaho State University’s ‘Digital Geology of Idaho’ https://www.isu.edu/digitalgeologyidaho/

·        The project will be based out of the Forest Supervisors Office in Kamiah, Idaho, with some of the work taking place in the field across the Forest.  The selected individual will work closely with the Forest Service Minerals and Geology staff, but field work can be done independently after a time where the participant feels confident to work alone.

·        Field work will involve strenuous physical activity, such as hiking in steep terrain, inspecting mining activity in rivers, carrying a loaded day pack, and/ or working in uncomfortable weather conditions (from hot to rainy) for long field days.  Potential hazards include inclement weather, confrontation with animals, riding UTV’s, and safety hazards at active or abandoned mine sites. A safety briefing and protective equipment will be provided.  Most areas on the Forest have poor to no cell coverage; the participant will be trained and supplied with a Forest Service radio for communication and check in /out procedures.  Overnight camping is a possibility if the participant is comfortable with rustic conditions.

·        Work will consist of field inspections and office work. Field work will involve physical activity (hiking in steep terrain and working in uncomfortable weather conditions).

·        Anticipated weekly schedule for the participant is flexible.  In previous years, participants have worked extended hours such as 4 – 10 hour days, leaving long weekends to explore the surrounding area, however, 5 – 8 hour day schedule is also suitable.  Generally, the first and last day of the work week are reserved for office work such as field planning and data management (downloading inspections and photos) at the end of the week.  Field days can be long with an average drive time of 1.5-2 hours to many sites.    Initially, field work may be limited as the participant plans their project and determines what data collection is needed. Advanced planning and logistics can make this more efficient and is a large part of the job.

·        Kamiah is within the Nez Perce Reservation. The Tribe holds events in Kamiah and welcomes non-tribal members’ participation at the majority of their events.  History of the Nez Perce Tribe and Lewis and Clark’s Journey is a big draw for visitors to the area. The town’s population is approximately 1300; however, there are about twice that many residents in the surrounding area. The weather in the Kamiah valley is much milder than the surrounding prairies and mountains, with very little snow in winter, long autumns and early springs. Lots of sunshine in the summer and protected from harsh winds.

·        The area is known for its excellent outdoor recreational opportunities. The Clearwater River, the most productive salmon and steelhead watersheds in the Columbia River Basin, runs adjacent to Kamiah. To the south are the Salmon and Snake Rivers. Salmon and steelhead fishing is some of the best in the lower 48. The Forests’ rivers and streams, including Kelly Creek, Lochsa River, and Selway River, also provide nationally-renowned blue ribbon catch-and-release trout fishing opportunities for large Westslope cutthroat trout.  Whitewater rafting is popular on the rivers. Four wilderness areas offer opportunities to explore on foot or horseback: Hells Canyon, Gospel Hump, Frank Church River of No Return and Selway-Bitterroot. For those that favor motorized recreation, the Forest has a developed system of ATV trails that go into the backcountry.

Housing Description:

·        Government housing will be provided at no cost to the participant.  Housing is available at a shared bunkhouse either in Kamiah or Kooskia, ID.  Rooms are single to double and include a kitchen (appliances and cooking wares), a bathroom with a shower, and a common area.  Shared bathrooms may be available.  Internet is available at the bunkhouse along with good cell service.  There is room for parking vehicles and outdoor space for grilling and relaxing.  Housing in Kamiah is located within walking distance (2-3 minutes) to the Supervisor’s Office (duty station) and within walking distance (5-10 minutes) to downtown and grocery stores.  However, Kamiah is a small (1,200 people) community and transportation would be required to get to larger communities with additional resources.

Is a personal vehicle required:

·        It will be important for the participant to have a personal vehicle.

Benefits:

• Segal AmeriCorps Education Award of $1,956.35
• Childcare Coverage if Eligible
• Living Stipend of $600.00 per week
• Additional Benefit of $100.00 per week
• Student Loan forbearance if Eligible (administered by MyAmeriCorps, directly)
• Interest Payments if Eligible (administered through MyAmeriCorps, directly)

How to Apply
Apply on-line at: https://stewardslegacy.org/open-positions.  In addition to your resume, please submit a one page cover letter highlighting why you are interested in this position and how your background and experience will help you succeed in this position.

Application Timeline: Position will close on January 29, 2026.

Supervisor Name and Contact Information:

·        Program Contact information: Sam Rush at srush@conservationlegacy.org

·        Service Site Contact information: Katherine Rhode at katherine.rhode@usda.gov

Conservation Legacy is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. If you need assistance and/or reasonable accommodations due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to the hiring manager. 

Additional Details

Our Commitment:

Conservation Legacy is committed to the full consideration of all qualified individuals and will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations to perform essential job functions. Physical requirements may include periodic overnight travel, non-traditional work hours, ability to move across varied terrain, use program-specific tools and a range of technology on an infrequent or frequent basis. Exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. The ability to safely drive an organizational vehicle may also be required for some positions. If you need assistance and/or reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or recruiting process, please send a request to the hiring manager.

Time Requirements:

• This position is expected to serve 40 hours each week, but exact service schedules may vary.
• Lunch breaks will not be counted towards AmeriCorps service.
• Member may be required to participate in national, state, or local service projects or events as part of their service term.

Orientation and Training:

• Member will receive an orientation that includes training on AmeriCorps prohibited and unallowable activities.

·        The selected individual will be working closely with Forest Service Minerals/Geology staff throughout the project.  They will be exposed to the work of other resource professionals within the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests and receive an introduction to what working for the USFS encompasses. The knowledge and experience, along with other staff and stakeholders involved in the project, will serve as a considerable knowledge base for the participant.  It will also serve as a great opportunity to network and develop professional contacts within the USDA.  Training may include CPR/First Air, defensive driving, and GIS data stewardship. Additional training may be made available to land management laws such as National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), National Historic Preservation Act, or the Endangered Species Act. These skills are applicable toward many natural resource related professions in a wide variety of federal and state agencies along with private institutions.

Evaluation and Reporting:

As an AmeriCorps member, performance will be evaluated on whether the member has completed the required number of hours, the member has satisfactorily completed assignments, and if the member has met other performance criteria that were clearly communicated at the beginning of the term of service.

Reporting requirements include, but are not limited to, bi-weekly timesheets and accomplishment tracking.