Field Leader - Urban Green Philadelphia Youth Conservation Crew

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.

 

SCA’s Urban Green Philadelphia Youth Conservation Crew is based at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum. The Spring 2026 Youth Conservation Crew will be led by 2 Field Leaders, ages 21+, and consist of 10 youth Crew Members, ages 15 to 18. The Crew will meet in a central location in Philadelphia each workday and transportation will be provided to project sites. This program is an entry-level position with the goal of connecting young people with nature. The program is 50-75% conservation field work, such as improving trails and gardens, managing invasive species, and planting native plants and trees, and 25-50% environmental education, leadership development, environmental recreation, and workforce readiness.

 

The Crew will work 6 weeks in the Summer, July through August. Crew Members will work Mondays to Fridays, 9am-4pm, at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge and in various sites throughout Southwest Philadelphia.

 

Field Leaders will work 40 hours a week, Mondays to Fridays, based at John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge.

 

Location 

Philadelphia, PA

 

Schedule 

July 6, 2026 - August 14, 2026

 

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

Actively participate in conservation service tasks as assigned.

 

Use hand tools and work outside to complete conservation service projects.

 

Arrive at work prepared for the workday.

 

Marginal Duties 

Engage and contribute to environmental education and job readiness lessons and activities.

 

Required Qualifications 

• Current high school student between the ages of 15 - 18.
• Participants need no prior experience but do need to have a desire to work outside in all weather conditions, and willingness to engage in team building activities.
• Authorization to work in US

Preferred Qualifications 

Local candidates to Southwest Philadelphia encouraged to apply!

 

Hours 

35 per week

 

Living Accommodations 

Not provided.

 

Compensation  

Hourly position paying $11/hour, 7 hours per week. Member is paid bi-weekly.

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

 

Personal Vehicle Information

No personal vehicle required.

 

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.