Assistant Field Leader- East Bay Urban Forestry Crew

Position Summary

About us: 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, national forests, wildlife refuges, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks, community green spaces, and much more across the country.

The East Bay Urban Forestry Crew will work as a team with local park and city staff on various urban forestry projects to address issues of tree canopy in disadvantaged communities.

Schedule

March 10 - September 13, 2025

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Project Location: East Bay

The Assistant Leader will work directly with the 2 members and the leader tocomplete different projects throughout various parks and city properties that will include:

• Tree care including watering, pruning, and mulching
• Tree mapping and inventory
• Education and outreach about urban forestry

Crew Members will be trained in tool usage, safety, member wellness, job hazard assessments, and conflict resolution. Members will work in new outdoor environments all while learning new skills. Being excited and open to new experiences is a huge advantage for members. The team will consist of 2 members, 1 assistant leader, and 1 leader. Crew Members meet at a centralized pick-up and drop-off location (TBD) and are transported to their work site each day in an SCA provided vehicle. Each member will share in the responsibility of the care and management of SCA provided vehicles and trailers.

Age Requirement

Adults 18 or older

Required Qualifications

• Completion as an SCA or other crew member in Urban Forestry.
• Experience with conservation work skills or related skills required – 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
• Must be a minimum of 18 years of age
• Must have the ability to legally work in the US

Hours

35 per week

Living Accommodations

Must live locally - none provided

Compensation

$805 weekly, bi-weekly pay

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

Additional Benefits

• Explore green jobs and career opportunities
• Complete important conservation projects in the East Bay community
• Participate in professional development and skill building as a team
• Alumni benefits after successful completion of program SCA gear package
• WFA if needed
• Additional chainsaw certifications

AmeriCorps: Not Eligible

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. 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.