Field Leader - Senior Western Trail Team Project Leader

Student Conservation Association•Alturas, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Senior Project Leaders manage conservation crews completing multiple high‑priority trail and recreation projects with public land partners. Leaders guide 3–5 members, teach technical skills, foster community, and ensure safe, high‑quality project outcomes. This position is hired for Summer 2026 as the primary term. A Fall 2026 extension may be offered based on performance, project needs, and funding. Potential projects could include; trail maintenance, fence construction, and/or invasive plant management.

Requirements

21+ years old; Legal work status in the US;
Successfully pass SCA’s background check;
Valid driver’s license (3+ years) and Motor Vehicle Record that meets SCA’s standards;
Successfully complete a Health Screening Questionnaire before the position start date;
Ability to attend Crew Leader training: 4/12/2026 – 5/31/2026;
Ability to obtain a Wilderness First Responder Certification by the end of Project Leader Training;
Multiple seasons of leading outdoor conservation work;
Camping, hiking, and backcountry experience;
Must understand, enact and uphold project, crew community, basecamp, vehicle, and additional safety standards set through SCA’s policies;
Perform manual, physical labor for up to 10 hours per day, hike 10+ miles in a day, exposed to the elements, and must occasionally lift and/or move 40 pounds or more;
Work in challenging outdoor conditions, including extreme heat, extreme cold, high winds, and precipitation;
Full engagement in all work projects and community activities;
Commitment to learning and addressing needs of members and community;
Ability to live and work in a multi-gendered, multi-cultural communal environment

Nice To Haves

Chainsaw Certification (B-Faller);
Crosscut Certification (B-Bucking);
Trailer Driving Experience;
Remote Work or Backcountry Experience;

Responsibilities

Crew Supervisor: Facilitate teamwork, manage basecamp and equipment tasks, support member wellbeing, and uphold SCA’s policies
Advisor: Train members in technical conservation skills, mentor personal and professional development, and teach environmental stewardship.
Project Manager: Ensure timely completion of work projects, communicate with agency partners, and represent SCA professionally.
Program Administrator: Organize logistics, complete documentation, manage crew budgets, and communicate with SCA staff.
Program Support: Perform tool and gear repairs, assist with trainings and derig, and serve as a role model for other leaders and members.
Assisting in Crew Member Training;
Coordinate specific vehicle and gear repairs;
Tool and gear maintenance;