What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Leader - Charles County Summer Youth Corps position at Student Conservation Association, Inc?
Position Summary
This position directly supports Nature-Based climate resilience in Charles County by caring for native trees planted across public schools. Project tasks may include watering, mulching, staking, pruning, and monitoring young native trees. Through this work, participants will gain hands-on conservation experience and help address the impacts of climate change in their community.
Location
La Plata, MD
Schedule
June 15, 2026 - August 21, 2026
Key Duties and Responsibilities
As Assistant Leader, you will help support the Crew Leader guide a team of 4 high schoolers to complete field conservation projects that support long-term maintenance of native urban tree canopies at schools in Charles County’s urban heat islands. This role will work alongside the crew, acting as a role model to the youth members and as a supportive supervisor for the Leader. Additionally, after passing SCA MVR check and driver safety courses, Assistant Leader must be able to safely transport crew from morning pick-up, worksites, and afternoon drop off the SCA rental truck and/or van.
Marginal Duties
Assistant Leaders may help support Crew Leader administrative tasks. These tasks may include uploading photos from the field, helping with reporting, or project data collection. Assistant Leaders will be key in helping model active engagement throughout the workday for high school members.
Required Qualifications
- Perform manual, physical labor for up to 8 hours per day, exposed to the elements, and occasionally lift and/or move 40 pounds or more
- Minimum of 21 years of age
- US Work Authorization
- Valid driver’s license for 3 years and pass SCA Motor Vehicle Report standards
- Meet SCA’s criminal background check standards
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with youth or young adults, teaching or environmental education preferred
- Assistant Leaders will work in new outdoor environments, being excited and open to new experiences is strongly desired
- Experience working in a team
- Open to learning new skills
- Urban forestry, arboriculture, or tree care experience is a plus
Hours
40 per week
Living Accommodations
No housing provided: candidates must live near Charles County, Maryland
Compensation
- $820/week paid bi-weekly
- 45/month cell phone stipend
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Additional Benefits
Defensive Drive Training
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.