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Position Summary

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on conservation programs for youth and adults. Program participants protect and restore national parks, national forests, wildlife refuges, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks, community green spaces, and much more across the country.


Schedule

July 1, 2025 - December 27, 2025 = 26 weeks


Position Description

Participants will work with the Houston Parks and Recreation Department’s Natural Resources Management Division to restore forested habitat along waterways in City of Houston Parks. The project is part of the City’s Riparian Restoration Initiative to restore forested riparian habitat within all parks adjacent to waterways. Individual Placements will conduct invasive species removal and native trees and understory plantings. They will conduct maintenance activities in the restored areas to support the establishment of the riparian forest. Additionally, participants will conduct community education and outreach activities within parks and at special events.


Key Duties and Responsibilities

  • Invasive species removal
  • Native species planting


Marginal Duties

  • Working with volunteers and propagation or planting events
  • Plant propagation
  • Operation of small equipment, such as weed eaters
  • Herbicide application
  • Training and Leadership development; Initial trainings will be held for all types of service activities: AmeriCorps 101 and Prohibited Activities, suspension and termination policy; AmeriCorps Members Service Agreement- Drug Free Workplace, Code of Conduct, Grievance Procedures, Disability Inclusion, Non-Discrimination; Life After AmeriCorps- resume building, applying for jobs etc.; SCA Professional Development; Sexual Harassment and Maintaining a Positive Workplace; Risk Management 101; Other training opportunities when available

Required Qualifications

  • Physical requirements and working conditions of the member position.
  • Must be able to lift 25 pounds
  • Perform strenuous activities in harsh conditions
  • Work in outdoor setting
  • Local Candidates Only

AmeriCorps Eligibility Requirements:

  • This position is part of a specialized SCA AmeriCorps program and if you are selected, you will be serving as an SCA AmeriCorps member. To be eligible for this position you must meet these basic AmeriCorps Eligibility Requirements;
  • Being a citizen, permanent resident, or national of the United States;
  • Being at least 18 years or older;
  • Having a high school diploma or equivalent or actively working to complete;
  • Being willing to undergo National Service Criminal History Check, including criminal background, sex offender and FBI checks conducted after position is offered.


Preferred Qualifications

  • Some coursework within a Natural Resources Field
  • Plant identification
  • Comfortable working outside
  • Invasive species removal

Hours:

40 per week


Living Accommodations

No housing provided. Member responsible for own housing.


Compensation

  • Living Allowance - $600/week
  • Commuting Allowance - $80/week
  • Eligibility for 900-hour AmeriCorps Education Award upon successful completion of service valued at $3,697.50
  • AmeriCorps Member Assistance Program
  • Childcare coverage (if applicable): Eligible for childcare assistance through AmeriCorps
  • Eligible for Federal Student Loan forbearance and interest payment deferment through AmeriCorps for qualifying student loans
  • Access to a national network of professional resources and a peer group
    • All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.


Personal Vehicle Information

Personal Vehicle Required


Additional Benefits

AmeriCorps: Eligible/Required


Equal Opportunity Statement

The 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 where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally. The Student Conservation Association, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.


This program is available to all, without discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy, religion, age, national origin, genetic information, disability, military status, familial status, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by law.


Physical requirements and working conditions specific to the position are available in the full job description.