Position Summary
Join a dynamic crew on a mission to green Northwest Indiana! You'll hit the ground running in communities such as Gary, Hammond, East Chicago, and Whiting-planting and caring for native trees to expand the urban canopy and transform neighborhoods. Partner with passionate community organizations, build skills through SCA-led trainings, and energize local volunteers at hands-on events. Help spark awareness, inspire stewardship, and grow a healthier, more vibrant urban forest-one tree, one block, one community at a time.
Location
Hammond, IN
Schedule
August 24, 2026 - November 7,2026
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Conservation Work
- Actively participate in conservation service tasks as assigned.
- Primary duties include watering and maintaining a tree yard; planting, watering, mulching, and inspecting trees; collecting tree data; and assisting the crew leader with site preparation for plantings.
- The crew primarily works a Monday-Friday schedule, with some Saturdays required in the fall (September-November).
Preparation
- Arrive at work prepared for daily activities.
- Clearly communicate any tardiness or absences.
- Contribute actively to the overall success of the program and team.
- Pack lunches that can be easily stored and eaten in the field.
- Wear SCA-approved uniforms and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Education & Engagement
- Participate in environmental education and job readiness lessons.
- Collaborate with other local SCA crews during joint workdays.
- Work with partner organizations to support environmental education efforts.
- Assist with SCA-led community engagement events and present to peers when appropriate.
Leadership Development
- Contribute to leadership development and workforce skills training.
- Attend required member trainings and any advanced skills trainings offered.
- Take an active role in supporting volunteers during SCA-managed community engagement events.
Marginal Duties
Training Participation
- Participate in SCA-led and partner-led training sessions.
- Engage in online and advanced skills training when offered.
Crew Support
- Support crew needs and project objectives as necessary.
Required Qualifications
- Work Ethic: Strong work ethic with a willingness to work outdoors in challenging conditions and to learn new skills.
- Manual Labor Ability: Ability to perform manual labor for up to 8 hours per day, including occasionally lifting or moving 40 pounds or more.
- Legal Eligibility: Legally eligible to work in the United States; must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or national.
- Minimum Age: At least 18 years old.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent (or actively working toward completion).
- Background Checks: Willingness to undergo National Service Criminal History Checks, including background, sex offender, and FBI checks.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience with tree planting, landscaping, conservation work, or outdoor labor.
- Experience working with volunteers or community-based organizations.
- Interest in urban forestry, environmental education, or community engagement.
Hours
35 per week
Living Accommodations
N/A
Compensation
Hourly Pay: $18/hour for 35 hours per week, paid bi-weekly
Additional Benefits:
$200 uniform package provided by SCA
CPR & First Aid Certification (valued at $150)
$45 monthly cell phone reimbursement
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Additional Benefits
Defensive Drive Training
First Aid/CPR
Interpretive Skills
AmeriCorps:
Not Eligible
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.