We use an online system called SilkRoad Onboarding to complete paperwork. You should receive an email after you have been accepted with a username and password to access this account. We greatly appreciate you finishing this paperwork before your first day! Contact your office if you have any issues or questions about the Silk Road system.
On your first day, please bring original copies of your IDs to complete your I-9 forms. Find examples of acceptable IDs here.
What kind of training will I receive?
Most crews will get on the job training. There's no better way to learn to build hiking trails than to get out there and build that trail! Some crews may get separate trainings like Wilderness First Aid or S-212 chainsaw training. These trainings will be specified in the position description you applied through but are not guaranteed. These training will typically occur outside of work time. Staff will let you know if you'll receive these trainings! Otherwise, expect to hit the ground running. The best way to get your feet under you is to get your boots on the ground!
What are the rules on tobacco use?
The use of tobacco products is allowed in designated areas only. The use of tobacco products (this includes smokeless tobacco, vapor, and e-cigarettes) on the work site and in communal living spaces is prohibited. Talk to your crew leader about designating a location near camp that is acceptable for tobacco use.
As this is an AmeriCorps program, use of drugs and alcohol of any kind is strictly prohibited.
Can I contact my friends and family in the field?
Cell phones are allowed, however service can be spotty or non-existent in many of the areas in which we work, so plan accordingly. Let your loved ones know that you may be out of touch during remote projects.
What if there is an emergency in the field?
We have an On-Call system where a staff member is available by phone 24 hours a day. Ask your crew leader for this number on your first day! Please note: this number is ONLY for crews. Do not give this number out to your family and friends. If your friends or family have an emergency and need to reach you, they can contact the office during business hours, and we will get in contact with your crew leaders as soon as possible.
If you are injured in the field, you may be covered by our workers compensation. Your crew leaders will have the appropriate forms to file a claim. If your crew is based in a very remote location without service, crew leaders will be equipped with a Garmin InReach device that allows them to check in daily via text message and contact help if needed.
Where can I receive mail?
Mail can be sent to CCNC's PO Box in Durham, NC. Ask program staff for this address on your first day! Make sure that anything sent to this address has your name written clearly on it. This address should not be listed as your personal permanent place of residence for any purpose, including driver’s licenses, resident applications, etc. Do not fill out an official USPS change of address form to have your mail forwarded to us. Once the session is over, your mail will be returned to the sender.
What are the benefits of serving with CCNC?
As CCNC is an AmeriCorps program, members will receive a bi-weekly living stipend. Following completion of program, members will also receive an AmeriCorps education award. Award amounts are based on hours served (see the 'AMERICORPS BENEFITS' tab to find the "Hours Served-Americorps Awards" table). In addition to the living allowance and education award, members receive professional development opportunities, hands-on experience with environmental and conservation projects, and build connections with agencies.
When do I get paid?
Your stipend will be deposited in your bank account bi-weekly throughout your term (see the 'PAYROLL' tab for more information). You will need to fill in your timesheet every week.
How can I use my AmeriCorps education award?
Upon successful completion of your term, you will receive the AmeriCorps Education Award. You will be able to access this award through the my.americorps.gov website. It is distributed like a grant and will count as income on your taxes for the year in which you use it. More information can be found on the Conservation Legacy Resources Page.
What does a typical work day look like?
Days on hitch can be long. Breakfast usually starts around 6:30 am followed by packing lunches and cleanup. You might have to drive and/or hike to your project site. Every workday starts with a stretch & safety circle to prepare you for your project work. You will have two 15-minute breaks and one 30-minute break for lunch during the day. Dinner usually starts around 6:30 pm; you will probably have some downtime before dinner, unless you are assigned to cook. All meals are eaten as a group. Most nights end with a debrief, which is a way for you and your crew to come together and reflect about that day. Typically, you will be working 10 hours each day.
Do we work in the rain?
Yes! Crews work in a variety of weather and different ecosystems. You should be prepared for sudden changes in weather, and always have your rain-gear and layers accessible in your day pack. If weather becomes dangerous, work will stop, and your crew leader will instruct you on lightning procedure or other precautions.
How does the schedule work?
Crews work nine days straight, followed by five days off. Rig-up and de-rig will be at Camp Slocum, north of Durham, NC. CCNC will cover the cost of food while you camp for the nine days on; members are responsible for their own food and housing for the five days off.
Where do I stay during my days off?
Members are responsible for food and housing during days off. In previous years members have camped, traveled, or found shared housing in the area (see the 'PLACES TO STAY' tab under 'OFF HITCH' for more information).
Where can I park my vehicle during hitch?
While on hitch, vehicles can be parked at CCNC's shop. Our lot is behind a locked gate, and while CCNC considers this to be a safe location, CCNC is not responsible for theft or damage to vehicles or contents.