Summer Youth Corps Assistant Leader

Position Summary 

This position directly supports Nature-Based climate resilience in Charles County by caring for native trees planted across public schools. Project tasks may include watering, mulching, staking, pruning, and monitoring young native trees. Through this work, participants will gain hands-on conservation experience and help address the impacts of climate change in their community.

Location 

La Plata, MD

Schedule 

June 15, 2026 - August 21, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

As Assistant Leader, you will help support the Crew Leader guide a team of 4 high schoolers to complete field conservation projects that support long-term maintenance of native urban tree canopies at schools in Charles County’s urban heat islands. This role will work alongside the crew, acting as a role model to the youth members and as a supportive supervisor for the Leader. Additionally, after passing SCA MVR check and driver safety courses, Assistant Leader must be able to safely transport crew from morning pick-up, worksites, and afternoon drop off the SCA rental truck and/or van.

Marginal Duties 

Assistant Leaders may help support Crew Leader administrative tasks. These tasks may include uploading photos from the field, helping with reporting, or project data collection. Assistant Leaders will be key in helping model active engagement throughout the workday for high school members.

Required Qualifications 

• Perform manual, physical labor for up to 8 hours per day, exposed to the elements, and occasionally lift and/or move 40 pounds or more
• Minimum of 21 years of age
• US Work Authorization
• Valid driver’s license for 3+ years and pass SCA Motor Vehicle Report standards
• Meet SCA’s criminal background check standards

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience working with youth or young adults, teaching or environmental education preferred
• Assistant Leaders will work in new outdoor environments, being excited and open to new experiences is strongly desired
• Experience working in a team
• Open to learning new skills
• Urban forestry, arboriculture, or tree care experience is a plus

Hours 

40 per week

Living Accommodations 

No housing provided: candidates must live near Charles County, Maryland

Compensation  

• $820/week paid bi-weekly
• 45/month cell phone stipend

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes. 

Additional Benefits 

Defensive Drive Training

Equal Opportunity Statement 

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.