Assistant Leader – 2026 Charles County Summer Youth Corps

The Assistant Leader for the 2026 Charles County Summer Youth Corps at the Student Conservation Association will support climate resilience by caring for native trees in La Plata, MD. Responsibilities include supervising a team of high schoolers in conservation projects, performing physical labor, and possibly assisting with administrative tasks. Candidates should have a valid driver's license and experience working with youth is preferred. The position runs from June 15 to August 21, 2026.
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.