Field Leader- Olympic National Park Trail Crew

Position Summary

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and young adults. Program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks, and community parks across the country.

Leader Training Start and End Dates: 6/1/2025 - 6/21/25

Program Start and End Dates: 6/1/2025 - 9/27/2025

Location: Port Angeles, WA

Program Description:

Come experience beautiful Olympic National Park as a member of an SCA Backcountry Trail Corp Teams this summer. SCA is seeking a crew leader for 17 weeks to lead SCA members in backcountry trail maintenance and restoration projects.

Primary Responsibilities:

Embark on the role of a Summer 2025 Pacific Northwest Trail Corps Project Leader, taking charge of and mentoring a team of young adults as they begin their conservation journey. Leading 4 -10 day work hitches, you'll be at the helm of diverse hands-on projects in remote locations within Olympic National Park. From clearing trail corridors and logging out trails to installing rock structures and rebuilding trails damaged by wildfires, this rugged experience unfolds amidst stunning landscapes. This opportunity is perfect for those ready to embrace a challenging yet rewarding season, fostering a supportive community while living without electricity, running water, and cell phone reception in front country or backcountry locations. Join us and lead by example, guiding your crew through this transformative journey and making a lasting impact on the trail.

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:

• Experience working with youth or young adults, teaching, or environmental education a plus.
• Experience with conservation work skills or related skills preferred – 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.
• Ability to obtain a Wilderness First Responder Certification by the end of Project Leader Training
• Chainsaw Certification (B-Faller) is a plus.
• Crosscut Certification (B-Bucking) is a plus.
• Must be able to attend Crew Leader training:
• Must be a minimum of 21 years of age.
• Must have the ability to legally work in the US.
• Must have a valid driver's license for 3 years and MVR that meets SCA standards.

Leader Benefits and Compensation:

• $900 weekly salary
• Travel costs paid by SCA up to $500.
• Cell phone reimbursement of $45 monthly
• Food provided all season.
• Group Camping Equipment (i.e. tents, camping stoves, filters) provided
• Laptop and Mobile Hotspot for Administrative Duties provided.
• Trainings Provided
• Wilderness First Responder ($800 – value)
• Trail Maintenance Work Skills ($1,000 – value)
• Chainsaw Training (if needed for project work) ($250 – value)
• Crosscut Training (if needed for project work) ($250 - value)

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.