Field Leaders- Western Trails Corps

Program Dates:  MAY– End of August (Paid training included)

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.

Project Details:  

Embark on the role of a Summer 2024 Western Trail Corps Project Leader in a team of 3-4 crew members for one of our location sites below, 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.

Location Sites:

• Sierra National Forest Crew, CA
• Snow Mountain Wilderness Crew, CA
• The Pacific Crest Trail Crew , CA 
• Saint Francis Trail Crew, CA
• John Muir Trail Backcountry Crew, CA

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 participate in the Wilderness First Responder Certification by the end of Project Leader Training
• Chainsaw Certification (B-Faller) is a plus.
• Crosscut Certification (B-Bucking) is a plus.
• Must be able to attend Crew Leader training:
• 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 4/6/2024 – 4/14/2024.
• Trail Building Workshop ($1,000 – value)
• Chainsaw Training (if needed for project work) ($250 – 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.