Florida Conservation Corps (FLCC) - AmeriCorps Non-native Plant Terminators (A.N.T.)

Requisition No: 877598 | Agency: Environmental Protection | Position Number: 37970933

About the Role

The Florida Conservation Corps (FLCC) AmeriCorps program is a 30-year-old program administered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Florida Park Service with AmeriCorps Volunteers serving at state parks throughout Florida. AmeriCorps Volunteers serving under FLCC Project A.N.T. (AmeriCorps Nonnative plant Terminators) serve as pairs in approximately 25 state parks, focused on habitat restoration through the management of invasive exotic plants. Volunteers help reduce invasive exotic plant infestations through various land management techniques, educate park visitors and surrounding communities through outreach and interpretation, and recruit volunteers to support exotic plant management efforts.

FLCC AmeriCorps Volunteers for this position will report daily to onsite park management and submit service data to FLCC staff based in Gainesville, FL. Volunteers are required to serve 1,700 hours between September 2026 – July 31, 2027, equating to approximately 35 – 40 hours per week.

Responsibilities

• Remove non-native invasive plants using various techniques
• Serve 1,700 hours before July 31st
• Assist with outreach goals as assigned
• Complete monthly timesheet
• Complete quarterly report
• Complete grant-required training
• Attend mandatory FLCC events

What You Can Expect From Your Service

Natural Resource Skills

• Plant identification
• Chainsaw training and use
• Training and use of large equipment
• Tool maintenance (chainsaws, trail tools, herbicide application tools, hatchets, machetes, hand saw, vehicles, ATV, UTV)
• Safe use of herbicide application
• Participate in prescribed fire
• Create/maintain/improve public trails

Professional Development

• Introduction to federal and state policy and guidelines
• Experience entering data and retrieving reports for progress tracking
• Organize and/or participate in strike teams and service projects
• Network and build relationships with natural resource professionals

Community Outreach

• Flyer and graphic design and development
• Opportunity to recruit volunteers and lead volunteer projects
• Table at community events
• Interact and educate park visitors
• Participate in disaster response recovery efforts

This position will directly impact Florida State Parks by working toward improvement of natural communities, volunteer recruitment, education, and trail enhancement.

Requirements

Knowledge

• Florida ecosystems and resource management techniques
• Recreation principles

Skills

• Communicating effectively verbally and in writing
• Utilizing a computer, including software programs such as Microsoft Office Suite

Abilities

• Attend in-person orientation in October 2026 (Dates TBD)
• Complete 1,700 hours between September 1st – July 31st, 2027
• Successfully complete background and fingerprint check
• Accurately prepare reports
• Interact with all internal and external customers and the general public in a professional, tactful, and courteous manner
• Participate in resource management tasks, including non-native plant removal which may include application of herbicide
• Follow verbal and written instructions/directions
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships
• Work outdoors in inclement weather
• Perform physical labor
• Lift 40 pounds and assist in transporting items or other supplies 100 pounds or more
• Properly wear uniform

Other Job-Related Requirements

• Must successfully pass background check
• This position is designated as a Position of Special Trust in accordance with DEP Directive 422, Positions of Special Trust or Responsibility

Pay

Monthly Living Stipend: $2,200.00

Benefits

• Loan deferment
• $7,395 Education award after the completion of service
• No cost insurance premium (deductibles still required)
• Access to Assistance Program
• Free access to all 175 state parks

About the Organization

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is the state’s lead agency for environmental management and stewardship - protecting our air, water, and land. The vision of DEP is to advance Florida’s position as a world leader in protecting natural resources while growing the state’s economy. DEP encourages its leaders to constantly innovate and seek efficiencies. We believe in supporting and encouraging you as you take on important and often complex projects while offering you the opportunity to gain valuable experience quickly.

The mission of the Florida Conservation Corps is to develop natural and cultural resource leaders by connecting them to areas of critical need in conservation, preservation, interpretation, and resource-based recreation.

Work Location

The position is located at Maclay Gardens State Park in Tallahassee, FL. The beautiful ornamental gardens were first planted in 1923 by Alfred B. and Louise Maclay after they purchased the property for their winter home. Working service animals are welcome anywhere in the park.

• Lake Hall provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Boats without gas-powered motors are allowed. Pavilions and grills along the lakeshore provide the perfect setting for a picnic.
• For walking enthusiasts, two short nature trails meander through the woods overlooking the lake. Hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians can enjoy six miles of shared-use trails and five miles of designated biking trails winding through the woods surrounding Lake Overstreet, located on park property adjoining the gardens.
• Peak blooming season is from January 1 through April 30, with the floral peak in late February. During these months, a special fee is charged for visiting the gardens and the historic Maclay House.
• Annual special events include Tour of Gardens in May, Scarecrows, Moon Over Maclay - Jazz in the Gardens, and Camellia Christmas in December. Other events and ranger programs are offered throughout the year.