Overview
Conservation Begins Here.
The Student Conservation Association (SCA), Americas #1 conservation service organization seeks qualified applicants to lead, educate, and inspire students for the programs.
Training Dates: April 3rd April 7th (paid mandatory training)
Program Dates: April 3rd – August 18th, 2023
Location (City and State): Chicago IL
Primary Responsibilities:
Supervise a crew of 3 young-adult women, ages 18+, in the completion of various conservation projects within the Chicago Park District natural areas (mainly Hegewisch Marsh, Indian Ridge Marsh, Steelworkers Park, Big Marsh Park). The Crew Leader will manage the crew in activities using hand and power tools to complete projects such as: trail/park maintenance; habitat restoration; invasive species removal; herbicide application; and leading stewardship days. Leader will be responsible for managing the group in environmental education workshops, certificate trainings and outdoor recreation, especially while leading the crew in a one week careercamping trip with the US Forest Service Urban Connection Program at one of our National Forests. Leader will also be responsible for capturing project outcomes through photo documentation, data collection, reporting, and evaluations. Crew leader will have additional support from an Assistant Crew Leader on the team. As long as COVID-19 is a threat, Crew Leaders (and members) are expected to do what is necessary to keep their team safe, this includes regular cleaning and disinfection of tools/equipment, regular health check-ins with staff, wearing a mask, and enforcing/following policy and procedures outlined in SCAs COVID management plan.
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:
Must be a self-identified woman, 23 yrs. or older
valid driver’s license and clean driving record
Current ability to meet SCAs criminal background check standards
Must have before start of program current basic First Aid and CPR certifications
State of Illinois herbicide license or willing to obtain one before program start date
outdoor skills; experience working with diverse groups
ability to maintain a safe, productive and enjoyable work environment.
Plant identification skills and knowledge of midwestern ecology strongly preferred.
Hand and power tool experience strongly preferred.
Leader Benefits and Compensation:
$23 hr.
About Student Conservation Association
Today, 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. Members participate in a variety of capacities and contexts. Beyond national parks, members work on marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks, and community green spaces in our nation’s urban centers. Members do land management, habitat restoration, trail building, disaster rehabilitation or prevention work, environmental education, public outreach, and more.
