Field Leader - Summer Sequoia National Forest Western Divide Small Trail Team

Student Conservation Association•Porterville, CA

15d•Onsite

About The Position

The Student Conservation Association (SCA) seeks experienced leaders to guide, educate, and inspire young adults on conservation crews across the West during Summer 2026, with the possibility of a Fall extension. Senior Project Leaders manage conservation crews completing highâpriority projects with public land partners. Leaders guide 3–5 members, teach technical skills, foster community, and ensure safe, highâquality 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.

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
Attend Crew Leader training: 4/12/2026 – 5/31/2026
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
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.