Corps - 2025 Reading Climate Corps Member

Conservation Begins Here

2025 Reading Climate Corps Member

Position Summary

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults. Since 1957, program participants have protected and restored national parks, national forests, wildlife refuges, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks, community green spaces, and much more across the country. The Reading Climate Corps is based in Reading, PA and will be comprised of 4 Members, 1 Assistant Field Leader, and 1 Field Leader. The Corps will meet in a central location in Reading each day and transportation will be provided to project sites in Reading. This program provides entry-level positions with the goal of connecting people with nature. The program is 85% conservation field work. Projects will include trail work and maintenance, invasive species removal, tree planting, habitat restoration, and litter abatement in various sites. The remaining 15% of time will be spent on workforce development and leadership training. Program participants must have a desire to work outside and in varying weather conditions. This program meets Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm, for a total of 40 hours worked per week.

Schedule

March 31, 2025 - July 7, 2025

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Actively participate in conservation service tasks, including invasive species management, urban gardening support, tree planting and tending, and litter clean-ups
• Arrive at work prepared for the workday
• Engage in environmental education and professional development activities
• Complete work projects and use tools safely, wearing required personal protective equipment

Marginal Duties

• Training and Leadership development
• Initial trainings will be held for all types of service activities
• SCA trails training
• Corps Member Training
• 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 Urban Green Cohort Professional Development
• Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion
• Sexual Harassment and Maintaining a Positive Workplace
• Risk Management 101
• Other training opportunities when available

Required Qualifications

• Strong work ethic and ability and desire to work outdoors in challenging conditions
• 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 have the ability to legally work in the US
• This position will be part of SCA's National Direct AmeriCorps program which advances urban climate resilience by protecting, restoring, and enhancing public lands and waters as well as natural, cultural, and historical resources across the United States. Service activities focus on projects identified as critical stewardship projects that improve and protect at-risk ecosystems and resources, especially in underserved urban communities.
• 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

Preference for local candidates.

Hours

40 per week

Living Accommodations

Housing not provided as part of this position.

Compensation

• Living allowance: $600/week living allowance (pre-tax)*
• Eligibility for 450-hour (14 weeks of service) AmeriCorps Education Award of $1,956.35 upon successful completion of service*
• 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

Not needed.

Additional Benefits

First Aid/CPR

AmeriCorps: Eligible/Required

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.

It is our strong belief that equal opportunity for all members is central to the continued success of our programs. We will not discriminate against an applicant because of race, religious creed, religion, color, sex, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, age, physical disability, mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity characteristics or expressions in selections, terminations and or recommendations. Opportunity is provided to all applicants on the basis of qualifications and program requirements. Upon request, reasonable accommodations will be provided to applicants during the selection process and to members during service.

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