Overview
Conservation Begins Here.
Are you ready to lead and explore iconic landscapes in the Western U.S.? Do you want to make a tangible difference in our natural spaces and communities? Join the Student Conservation Association (SCA) as a Field Leader for our 2025 Summer Sequoia National Forest Trail Team and embark on a journey that blends purpose with adventure.
Schedule
April 7, 2025 – August 23, 2025
Project Leader Training: April 7, 2025 – April 24, 2025
Summer Season: April 25, 2025 – August 23, 2025
Location
Springville, CA
Benefits
Pay: $800/week
Travel stipend: $1,000 (split into two payments: half with your first pay check, half with your last pay check)
Phone stipend: $45/month
Meals: Provided during fieldwork
Gear: Group camping gear provided (tents, stoves, cooking supplies)
You’ll also receive:
Wilderness First Responder Training (completion of this certification is required for the position)
Conservation trail work skills training
Defensive driver training
Trailer driving training
Living Arrangements
Participants camp in shared spaces, with SCA providing group gear and leaders receiving a vehicle and budget.
Season Overview
Training covers leadership, conservation, and risk management before work begins in Sequoia National Forest.
Work Schedule
80-hour biweekly schedules vary by project, with occasional off-hours duties.
Equal Opportunity Statement
SCA fosters a respectful, fair, and inclusive work environment for all. Position-specific requirements are in the full job description.
SCA is an equal-opportunity employer. Learn about Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
Alcohol, marijuana, and illegal substances are prohibited during work periods.
Qualifications:
As a Field Leader
- Supervise the crew, foster teamwork, manage equipment, and support member well-being.
- Train members in conservation skills, mentor development, and teach environmental stewardship.
- Oversee projects, ensure timely completion, and maintain partner communication.
- Handle logistics, documentation, budgets, and communication with SCA staff.
Required Skills:
Requirements:
- 21+, authorized to work in the U.S., valid driver’s license (3+ years).
- Attend training (4/7/2025–4/24/2025); outdoor leadership experience required.
- Physically fit for 10-hour days, lifting 40+ lbs, and varied weather.
- Camping, hiking, and teamwork experience; Wilderness First Responder Certification needed.
Preferred Skills:
Preferred but Not Required:
Current Wilderness First Responder Certification;
Experience with trail work, habitat restoration, or conservation projects;
Chainsaw or Crosscut Certification (Bonus points for B-Faller and B-Bucking certifications!);
Trailer Driving Experience is a plus;
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.