Assistant Leader - Reading Climate Corps

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. The Reading Climate Corps is based in Reading, PA and will be comprised of 4 Members, 1 Assistant Field Leader, and 1 Field Leader. The Corps will meet in a central location in Reading each day, and transportation will be provided to project sites in Reading. This program provides entry-level positions with the goal of connecting people with nature. The program is 85% conservation field work. Projects will include trail work and maintenance, invasive species removal, tree planting, habitat restoration, and litter abatement in various sites. The remaining 15% of the time will be spent on workforce development and leadership training. Program participants must have a desire to work outside and in varying weather conditions. This program meets Monday-Friday, 8:00am-4:00pm, for a total of 40 hours worked per week.

Location 

Reading, PA

Schedule 

March 9, 2026 - June 5, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

The Assistant Field Leader will be responsible for the day-to-day assistance of the Field Leader in leadership, direction, support, and supervision of 4 Members performing climate and sustainability-oriented work and will have primary responsibilities including:

• Serve as a mentor to the Members and support the Field Leader in being responsible for the Corps’ overall service, performance, and safety.
• Facilitate Corps dynamics through building a positive work environment and facilitating teamwork
• Serve as an Advisor, by training Members in technical conservation work skills, supporting personal and professional development, and teaching environmental stewardship
• Create and maintain a safe service and project environment
  • Consistently monitor all aspects of Member safety including identification and removal of hazards, the mandatory use of personal protective equipment; and building a culture of safety within the Corps
• Communicate issues and problems to the Field Leader in a prompt fashion
• Operate assigned vehicles, equipment, and tools safely and professionally
• Assist in the oversight of tool, equipment, and material inventory

Marginal Duties 

• Acting as primary support for the Field Leader when needed, including subbing as a Field Leader in case of absence and supporting Corps Members when Field Leader is working on administrative responsibilities.
• Assist Field Leader in advising Members in technical conservation work skills, supporting personal and professional development, and teaching environmental stewardship

Required Qualifications 

• Experience with conservation work skills or related skills preferred – i.e., trail maintenance, trail construction, habitat restoration, chainsaw, carpentry, landscaping, and gardening; Ability to perform manual, physical labor for up to 8 hours per day, exposed to the elements, and must occasionally lift and/or move 40 pounds or more
• Must be a minimum of 21 years of age
• Must have the ability to legally work in the US
• Must have a valid driver’s license for 3 years and MVR that meets SCA standards
• CPR certification & Wilderness First Aid or approved 16-hour First Aid course equivalent required.
  • *Certification opportunities provided by SCA at leader training
• Knowledge of the City of Reading and Berks County geography and community

Preferred Qualifications 

• Strong preference for local candidates.
• Preference for experience with environmental education or teaching.
• Preference for proficiency in spoken and written Spanish.

Hours 

40 per week

Living Accommodations 

Housing is not provided as part of this position.

Compensation  

$700/week

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

Additional Benefits 

Defensive Drive Training

First Aid/CPR

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.