Conservation Crew Leader - (SUMMER 2026) 

Location: Aurora, Colorado
Compensation: $21 - $26 per hour

Job Description: 

TeamWorks isn't just a summer experience; it's an opportunity for youth to forge a deeper connection with their community and the natural world. This conservation-based program unites young people from urban and rural areas to work collaboratively on various projects. Crews engage with project partners across the Front Range of Colorado, fostering a work environment that is both enjoyable and supportive. 

Crews work 10 hours a day, Mon-Thurs, on an assortment of conservation projects including trail building and maintenance, fire mitigation, watershed restoration, and noxious weed removal, and all participants and leaders return home each night.  In addition, each crew will participate in a 4 day, 3 night campout once during the season, providing an opportunity to strengthen the bonds of the crew and providing many participants an opportunity for healthy risk taking.  Crew Leaders will have three day weekends to explore the beautiful Rocky Mountains of Colorado, which are easily accessible from everywhere we work!

Position Overview: Crew Leader

As a Crew Leader, you'll lead and mentor a diverse group of 12 crew members, fostering individual growth and maintaining group morale throughout the season. Collaborating with public land managers and non-profit organizations, you'll coordinate and complete vital projects such as trail building, fire mitigation, and watershed restoration. Effective communication is paramount as you engage with the crew, co-leader, and project partners, ensuring the seamless execution of tasks. Your commitment to safety, demonstrated through risk management proficiency and maintaining a secure work environment, is crucial. The Crew Leader role is not only about project success but most importantly about cultivating a supportive community, forging lasting relationships among crew members, and contributing to the overall mission of empowering and educating youth in their connection with nature and community.

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Supervise Crews: Pick up youth at designated meeting spots and drive them to the project site. Crew leaders will oversee the work, safety and group dynamics of the crew.
  • Positive Youth Development: Prioritizing mentorship, fostering individual strengths, and creating a safe, collaborative environment. Through effective communication, feedback and inclusive leadership, we not only achieve project goals but contribute to the personal growth, resilience, and skill development of each team member.
  • Communication and Documentation: Demonstrate effective communication with the crew, co-leader, project partners, and the Teamworks administration team. Complete accurate and detailed documentation of time sheets, weekly debriefs, crew member evaluations, incident reports, and project work reports.
  • Safety and Risk Management: Manage risk at the work site, oversee and maintain crew safety, and facilitate a safe and comfortable work environment while upholding TEENS, Inc. policies.
  • Project Coordination: Partner with various land management agencies and non-profit organizations to complete needed projects, including fire mitigation, trail building and maintenance, watershed restoration, noxious weed removal, and light construction projects.

Job Details:

    • Entire season runs from May 11th - August 6th, 2026
      • May 11th - May 29th - Paid training 
      • June 2nd - June 5th - Crew Orientation
      • June 8th - August 6th - Season with crew
  • Housing is not provided, but we work to help crew leaders find a place to live.
  • Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
  • Positions available are based in Denver, Conifer, Aurora, Bailey, Nederland, Gilpin County and Idaho Springs, Colorado.

Qualifications: 

  • Minimum 1 year of prior leadership experience with youth.
  • Attend a paid 12-day Crew Leader training (May 11th - May 29th).
  • Minimum age of 21.
  • Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively with a co-leader.
  • Exceptional organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
  • Outdoor work experience in diverse weather conditions, up to 10 hours per day
  • Willingness to submit a driving record and proficiency in driving a 15-passenger van in both urban and rural environments.
  • Full-season commitment without conflicting obligations.
  • Proficient in risk management and decision-making.
  • Effective and inclusive leadership capabilities.
  • High capacity for communication and feedback.

Desired Skills:

  • Practical knowledge and experience in trail/conservation work and tool use.
  • Wilderness First Responder or Wilderness First Aid Certification.
  • Excitement and experience in working with culturally diverse groups.
  • Ability to leverage challenges and experiences to foster learning among crew members.
  • High-level group management and facilitation skills.

 

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