Field Leader - C&O Canal National Historic Park Hancock Crew

Student Conservation Association•Hancock, MD

About The Position

This crew, based at the Hancock Maintenance Shop in Hancock, MD, will support C&O Canal maintenance staff with daily tasks along the towpath. Members will remove vegetation from historic stone structures such as culverts, locks, flumes, and walls, as well as assist with removing fallen trees. The crew, composed of two members, will work under an SCA crew leader alongside NPS partners and staff. Opportunities may include supporting carpentry, masonry, and GIS mapping projects, as well as earning chainsaw certification if NPS capacity allows. Basic First Aid and CPR training will be provided if needed. Successful completion may qualify members for Public Land Corps (PLC) Hiring Authority, granting eligibility for federal merit-based job openings for two years.

Requirements

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
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 9 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
This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with tools and vegetation removal highly preferred
experience working outdoors a plus
experience working with youth or young adults, teaching, leading, or environmental education preferred
Experience working in a team
open to learning new skills
communication

Responsibilities

Crew Supervisor: Foster teamwork, guide crew dynamics, and manage field-based tasks to ensure safety and productivity.
Advisor: Train crew members in technical conservation skills, mentor personal and professional development, and promote environmental stewardship values.
Project Manager: Communicate with agency and park partners, oversee successful and timely project completion, and ensure a positive representation of the SCA.
Program Administrator: Organize logistics, manage program budgets, complete necessary documentation, and maintain clear communication with SCA staff.
Driver: Upon completing SCA’s MVR check, SCA and NPS driver safety training, and field test, safely transport crew members to various worksite locations using an NPS work vehicle