Conservation Begins Here.
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults.
Program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks, and community green spaces across the country.
WFR Dates: 4/7/2024 – 4/13/2024
Position Dates: 4/13/2024 - 8/24/2024
Training Dates: 4/13/2023 - 5/12/2024 (paid mandatory training)
Program Dates: 5/13/2023 – 8/17/2024
Location (City and State): Alturas, CA The Modoc National Forest (northern California)
Primary Responsibilities:
Embark on the role of a Summer 2024 Western Trail Corps Project Leader, taking charge of and mentoring a team of young adults as they begin their conservation journey.
Leading 4 -10 day work hitches, you'll be at the helm of diverse hands-on projects in remote locations throughout the American West.
From clearing trail corridors and logging out trails to installing rock structures and rebuilding trails damaged by wildfires, this rugged experience unfolds amidst stunning landscapes, ranging from 8,000 ft.
mountain passes to alpine lakes and sequoia-filled terrains.
This opportunity is perfect for those ready to embrace a challenging yet rewarding season, fostering a supportive community while living without electricity, running water, and cell phone reception in front country or backcountry locations.
Join us and lead by example, guiding your crew through this transformative journey and making a lasting impact on the trail.
Project Details: This team will work alongside Forest Service trail specialists to repair trails on the Modoc National Forest, in northeastern California.
The Modoc National Forest has a backlog of trail maintenance projects.
The team should expect to work on trail project in both front country and backcountry settings, and crew should expect work hitches to last between 4 and 10 days at a time.
Projects may include brushing corridor, removing downed logs with crosscut and/or handsaws, repair trail tread and drainage features, install or repair rock or timber structures, and reroute or install new trails.
Work may be performed with Forest Service employees and volunteers, but the crew will be self-sufficient and provide their own food, camping gear, tools, etc.
Expect to camp for this project.
Specifically, the Crew Leader will:
Act as a Crew Supervisor, by facilitating teamwork, managing field-based tasks, and guiding crew dynamics
Serve as an Advisor, by training members in technical conservation work skills, mentoring personal and professional development, and teaching environmental stewardship
Act as a Project Manager, by communicating with agency park partners, ensuring successful and timely completion of work projects, and upholding a positive representation of SCA
Perform tasks as a Program Administrator, by organizing logistics, completing documentation, managing a budget, and communicating with SCA staff
Leader Qualifications:
Experience working with youth or young adults, teaching, or environmental education a plus.
Experience with conservation work skills or related skills preferred – i.
e.
, trail maintenance, trail construction, habitat restoration, chainsaw, carpentry, landscaping, and gardening.
Ability to perform manual, physical labor for up to 8 hours per day, exposed to the elements, and must occasionally lift and/or move 40 pounds or more.
Ability to obtain a Wilderness First Responder Certification by the end of Project Leader Training: scheduled for 4/7/2024 – 4/13/2024.
Chainsaw Certification (B-Faller) is a plus.
Crosscut Certification (B-Bucking) is a plus.
Must be able to attend Crew Leader training: 4/13/2023 - 5/12/2024.
Must be a minimum of 21 years of age.
Must have the ability to legally work in the US.
Must have a valid driver's license for 3+ years and MVR that meets SCA standards.
Leader Benefits and Compensation:
$700 - $800 weekly salary
$1,000 travel stipend (half paid on first paycheck, half paid on last paycheck)
Cell phone reimbursement of $45 monthly
Field based meals provided.
Group Camping Equipment (i.
e.
tents, camping stoves, filters) provided
Laptop and Mobile Hotspot for Administrative Duties provided.
Trainings Provided
Wilderness First Responder ($800 – value) scheduled for 4/7/2024 – 4/13/2024.
Trail Building Workshop ($1,000 – value)
Crosscut Training (if needed for project work) ($250 - value)
The Student Conservation Association, Inc.
is an equal-opportunity employer.
Click here to learn more about Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion at the SCA.