Conservation Corps- 2026 Reading Conservation Corps Team

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 16, 2026 - June 12, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Actively participate in conservation service tasks, including invasive

species management, urban gardening support, tree planting and tending, and litter clean-ups

• Arrive at work prepared for the workday
• Engage in environmental education and professional development activities
• Complete work projects and use tools safely, wearing required personal

protective equipment

Marginal Duties

• Support the City of Reading Public Works with stormwater management,

community events.

• Test water quality and participate in environmental education when

opportunities arise.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong work ethic and ability and desire to work outdoors in challenging

conditions

• Ability to perform manual, physical labor for up to 8 hours per day, in

exposure to the elements, and to occasionally lift and/or move 40 pounds or more

• Must have the ability to legally work in the US
• Be at least 18 years or older;
• Have or be actively working to complete a high school diploma or equivalent
• Be willing to undergo the National Service Criminal History Check, including

criminal background, sex offender, and FBI checks which are conducted after the position is offered.

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong preference for local candidates.

Hours

40 per week

Living Accommodations

Housing not provided as part of this position.

Compensation:

$620/week living allowance. All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.

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

Personal Vehicle Information

N/A

Additional Benefits

First Aid/CPR

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.