PA Outdoor Corps - 2025 Cultural Resource Crew

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Student Conservation Association

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Harrisburg, PA, United States

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Position Summary

The Student Conservation Association in partnership with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), is seeking outgoing individuals to join the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps Cultural Resource Crew. The CRC is intended to provide aspiring archaeologists and preservationists the professional skills to build successful careers in land and resource management. Members will be exposed to a variety of Cultural Resource Management projects that will help to build a strong foundation for a continued career in CRM. Most work will take place in State Parks and Forests across Pennsylvania.

This is a team based position. The CRC consists of three members under the supervisor of a Project Leader. The season is a combination of field work, lab work, and reporting/research assignments.

Program Dates:

June 2, 2025 - November 27, 2025

Schedule:

Monday - Thursday 7:00am - 5:00pm

  • Members will be given a report time each Monday and will be expected to be on site at that time.

Work Project May Include:

  • Phase I archaeological and above-ground historic resource surveys
  • Resource inventory
  • Resource/site assessment
  • Research-oriented investigations
  • Historic Restoration
  • Other resource management work as needed

Required Qualifications

  • Applicants should hold a degree (BA or BS) in Anthropology, Archaeology, History, Architectural History, Historic Preservation or a related field.
  • Preference will be given to those with a strong background in cultural resources management and/or Section 106 of the NHPA; experience in field and laboratory settings; Phase I, II, or III survey methods and data analysis; writing for technical publication and public outreach; curation of archaeological or archival materials; and experience working with state and/or federal agencies.
  • Candidates should have an interest in pursuing careers in cultural resource management, archaeology, or architectural history with state and/or federal agencies, non-profit organizations engaged in conservation or preservation of natural or historic resources, or private cultural resource management firms.
  • Must have a valid Drivers License and access to a personal vehicle
  • Travel Required - Candidates should be willing/able to spend the field work weeks away from home occasionally camping when indoor accommodations are not available.

Hours

Full time - 40 per week

Accommodations

Throughout the season the CRC will stay on site at the parks/forests they are working in. Accommodations will vary depending on park availability. In most cases cabins or other housing may be available. When park housing is not an option the crew may be required to camp out. Due to the remote areas that we work in and limited housing options, crew members will be expected to share living spaces while on hitch. Individual rooms will be assigned when available but are not always guaranteed.

Compensation

$16/hr paid bi-weekly (75 Total hours per pay period)

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

Additional Benefits:

  • PTO
  • Optional Employees Sponsored Benefits (Health, Dental, Vision, Retirement)
  • Food and accommodations provided while on hitch

Personal Vehicle Information

Required

General Physical Requirements

  • Able to understand, adhere to, and communicate with others regarding hazards, procedures, and safety policies.
  • Able to stay alert and engaged for extended periods of program time.
  • Able to independently manage known medical conditions with the resources available throughout the position or program.
  • Able to wear all required personal protective equipment, including internal or external, safety glasses, hard hats, gloves, N95 or other approved face mask or shield, chaps, and appropriate footwear.
  • Able to refrain from behaviors and actions that disrupt the work and safety of others.
  • Able to cooperate with others to complete daily group tasks, responsibilities, and project work under potentially difficult conditions, variable daily routines, and with limited personal time.
  • Able to self-regulate or co-regulate emotions and actions when distressed or uncomfortable, with or without the support of others.
  • Able to self-manage outdoor and environmental exposure (e.g., temperature, wind, sun, etc.) in a variety of weather conditions.
  • If using prescription medications, able to self-medicate by following the prescribed dosage, usage, and timing without supervisor assistance (except possibly at the direction of higher medical authority in emergency situations).
  • Able to independently carry a backpack weighing up to or approximately 30% of body weight for a minimum of 5 miles and a maximum of 15 miles with adequate breaks dependent on weather, terrain, and trail conditions.
  • Able to lift a backpack weighing up to or approximately 30% of body weight, with minimal assistance from others.

Working Conditions

  • Work schedules and projects may change on short notice or be ambiguous.
  • Work settings require the ability to positively interact with people of varying cultures and perspectives.
  • Natural environments and culturally significant locations that require respect to the land and indigenous peoples.
  • Inclement and severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and flash flooding, gusty and strong winds, foggy or decreased visibility, and lightning events.
  • Exposure to natural and environmental hazards such as, poison ivy, oak, or sumac, tick and mosquito -borne illness, snakes, and potential for other wildlife encounters.

Equal Opportunity Statement

SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members. SCA is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere in which people of diverse backgrounds and lifestyles may grow personally and professionally. The Student Conservation Association, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.