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 10, 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.
