Habitat for Humanity of Iowa AmeriCorps Program
Serving with Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity
Build Skills. Serve Your Community. Make Your Summer Matter.
Looking for a hands-on summer job that actually makes a difference? Join Habitat for Humanity of Iowa as a Summer Construction AmeriCorps Member serving with Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity. This full-time, paid summer service opportunity is perfect for those who want to build real-world skills, explore construction or skilled trades, and give back to their community during summer break.
No construction experience? No problem. If you’re willing to learn, work hard, and be part of a team, we’ll teach you the rest.
Program Details
Term Length Options:
- 9 weeks (2 months) or 13 weeks (3 months)
Schedule:
- Tuesday–Saturday, 7:30 AM–4:00 PM
- 40 hours per week (full-time)
Location:
- Greater Des Moines metro area
- Members report to the main office and are provided transportation to build sites
Start Dates: May 11 & 26, June 11
What You’ll Do
As a Summer Construction AmeriCorps Member, you’ll work alongside Habitat construction staff, volunteers, and future homeowners to help build safe, affordable housing.
You will:
- Learn the basics of residential construction, including:
- Framing, foundations, windows, and doors
- Siding, flooring, painting, and general home repairs
- Work outdoors on active construction sites
- Help lead and support volunteers and Habitat partner families
- Learn jobsite safety, teamwork, and leadership skills
- See the direct impact of your work in the community
This role is a great fit if you’re curious about construction, skilled trades, nonprofit work, community service, or hands-on careers.
Compensation & Benefits
Think of AmeriCorps as a domestic Peace Corps — a paid service opportunity where your work directly impacts local families.
Summer members receive:
- Living stipend: $1,780 per month
- Education Award: Up to $1,900 upon successful completion of your summer term (can be used for tuition or student loans)
- Comprehensive training and mentoring
- Time off
- Federal student loan deferment (if applicable)
- Childcare assistance (if eligible)
Learn more about AmeriCorps benefits:
www.iowahabitat.org/member-page
Who We’re Looking For
You might be a great fit if you:
- Are a recent high school graduate, current college student, or just someone looking to fill their summer
- Are interested in hands-on work and learning new skills
- Enjoy working on a team and being outdoors
- Are reliable, motivated, and open to learning
- Can work in a variety of weather conditions (heat, rain, etc.)
Physical & Practical Requirements
- Comfortable being active on your feet throughout the day
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs occasionally with support and proper training
- Able to climb ladders and work safely on construction sites
- Willing to follow safety guidelines at all times
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record (to drive Habitat vehicles when needed)
AmeriCorps Eligibility Requirements
- Must be 18 years or older at the start of service
- High school graduate, GED holder, or currently working toward one
- U.S. citizen, U.S. national, or lawful permanent resident
- Able to pass a National Service Criminal History Check
Why Spend Your Summer With Habitat?
✔ Gain real job skills employers value
✔ Explore construction and skilled trades
✔ Build your resume with national service experience
✔ Earn money and an education award
✔ Make a visible, lasting impact in your community
Ready to build something that matters this summer?
Apply today and help make affordable housing possible in Greater Des Moines.
- Apply here: www.iowahabitat.org/apply-americorps
Pay: $1,770.00 per month
Benefits:
- Employee assistance program
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
Work Location: In person
