Conservation Begins Here.

The Student Conservation Association (SCA), America’s #1 conservation service organization seeks qualified applicants to lead, educate, and inspire Chicago area students for the SCA Summer Chicago Community program.

Co-lead, supervise, transport, and mentor a team of 10-12 high school youth, ages 15-19 for six weeks (Mon-Thurs 7.5 hrs/day, Fri 4 hrs/day) completing an assortment of hands-on conservation and restoration projects within different areas in the Forest Preserves of Cook County and plan and lead weekly educational field days.

Crew Leader applicants that come out for two FPCC volunteer events removing invasive plants or helping out at a Nature Center have a better chance of securing a position for the summer. Events are led by certified leaders who instruct you on how to remove invasive species among other activities.

Program Dates:

• July 2nd – August 10th, 2018

Training Dates:

• Pittsburgh, PA: June 4th - June 14th (transportation will be provided) and Local Training June 19th-21st

Primary Responsibilities:

• Co-lead field based projects, such as trail building, invasive removal and habitat restoration
• Teach environmental education curriculum
• Mentor youth in job readiness and personal development
• Create a fun and productive atmosphere for crew members

• Must be a minimum of 21 years of age
• Must have ability to legally work in the US
• Must be able to attend mandatory Crew Leader training in June
• Current First Aid certification & CPR required by the start of the training
• Experience working with youth or young adults (ages 14-18), teaching in an educational environment a plus
• Experience with conservation work skills or related skills, preferred i.e. trail maintenance, trail construction, chainsaw, carpentry, landscaping, and gardening
• State of Illinois herbicide license or willing to obtain one before program start date
• Experience working with diverse groups of youth
• Ability to maintain safe, productive and enjoyable work environment
• Plant identification skills, knowledge of mid-western ecology, or knowledge of the forest preserves is a big plus!
• 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
• Valid driver’s license and MVR that meets SCA standards required
• Ability to meet SCA’s criminal background check standards
• Must have personal housing arrangements in program city

SCA’s mission is to build the next generation of conservation leaders and inspire lifelong stewardship of the environment and communities by engaging young people in hands-on service to the land.