Assistant Leader - Rock Creek Young Adult Crew

Position Summary 

The 2026 Rock Creek Young Adult Crew, composed of 1 Crew Leader, 1 Assistant Crew Leader, and 8 Members, will conduct hands-on service work in a variety of locations throughout Rock Creek Park in Washington, DC to improve trail quality and visitor experience. Projects may include installing and repairing trail structures, maintaining trail integrity through corridor clearing, installing and repairing signage, and planting vegetation in selected areas.

 

Work will be conducted in a variety of areas, which may include Fort Slocum, Battery Kemble, and Reservation 339. This project is critical to helping preserve Washington, DC’s tree canopy and stormwater capturing vegetation while improving trail conditions for existing formalized trails.

 

Daily safety briefings will prepare crew members to work confidently in outdoor settings. Benefits include compensation, professional development, green job exploration, SCA gear, and alumni support upon program completion, providing a strong foundation for careers in conservation.

 

Location 

Washington, DC

 

Schedule 

Training Dates: April 6, 2026 – April 17, 2026 

Position Dates: May 11, 2026 – August 3, 2026 

 

Training dates are subject to change and will be confirmed upon offer letter. 

 

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

The Assistant Crew Leader supports the Crew Leader in guiding daily field work, fostering teamwork, and modeling professionalism and safe work practices. They assist with leading conservation projects, training crew members in trail work, tool use, and general park maintenance, and supporting daily safety briefings. The Assistant Crew Leader also serves as a peer mentor, helps with field logistics and communication, and may assist with transporting crew members to project sites upon completing required SCA driving qualifications.

 

Marginal Duties 

Complete feedback surveys and letters of reflection; Participate in professional development sessions like career panels, SMART Goal planning, and other trainings when available.

 

Required Qualifications 

Ability to attend and complete 2-week overnight Leader Training with lodging, meals, and time paid by SCA during first 2 weeks of program; 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; Must be able to meet SCA’s criminal background check standards.

 

 

 

Preferred Qualifications 

Experience working outdoors; experience working with youth or young adults, teaching, leading, or environmental education; Experience working in a team; open to learning new skills; communication; experience with project work such as trail maintenance, invasive plant removal, or similar a plus. SCA Driver Qualifications (not required): Must be a minimum of 21 years of age; Must have a valid driver’s license for 3+ years and pass SCA Motor Vehicle Report standards.

 

Hours 

40 per week

 

Living Accommodations 

No housing provided; Persons must already have secured housing locally prior to starting the position; Candidates must confirm housing during phone screen or interview

 

Compensation  

$840/week, paid biweekly; $45/month cell phone stipend

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes. 

 

Additional Benefits 

 

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.