Position Summary
This project supports land stewardship, habitat restoration, and boundary management efforts through hands-on fieldwork. Crew members will conduct vegetation removal, invasive species management, and trail maintenance using hand tools, power equipment, and GPS technology to document and maintain project sites. Work includes surveying and clearing property boundaries, installing boundary markers, and removing debris or outdated infrastructure. Crews will also support habitat restoration by planting native vegetation, spreading pollinator seed, and implementing erosion control measures. These activities contribute directly to fish and wildlife management goals while maintaining safe, accessible, and well-delineated public lands.
Location(s)
Thomaston, CT
Schedule
August 3, 2026 - September 25, 2026
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Perform field-based conservation work, including vegetation removal, invasive species management, trail maintenance, and boundary clearing. Safely use hand tools, power tools, and power equipment (e.g., chainsaws, trimmers, pole saws) on varied terrain, including slopes and uneven ground. Collect and record field data using GPS units, maps, and notebooks to document boundaries, site conditions, and invasive species removal. Support boundary management by locating monuments, clearing vegetation along boundary lines, installing boundary markers, and removing old fencing or debris. Assist with habitat restoration projects by planting native trees and shrubs, spreading pollinator seed, and implementing erosion and trail stabilization measures. Carry out physically demanding tasks such as walking long distances, kneeling, standing, and lifting or carrying 20–30 pound loads.
Marginal Duties
Participate in safety briefings, trainings, and daily tailgate meetings to ensure safe work practices. Assist with basic maintenance, cleaning, and storage of tools, equipment, and vehicles. Travel to and from project sites and assist with loading, unloading, and staging equipment and materials. Support team coordination by assisting crew leaders and working collaboratively with crew members. Communicate courteously with supervisors, land managers, and members of the public as needed while working on public lands. Complete basic documentation, data entry, or reporting related to field activities. Adapt to changing work conditions, weather, and project priorities as assigned. Perform other related duties as assigned to support project goals.
Required Qualifications
Must be 18 years of age. Must wear required attire by SCA while on duty. Must possess and maintain valid driver's license. Possess excellent verbal and written communications skills. Physical ability to navigate roads and park areas, as well as trails and wooded areas, lift 50 lbs. and carry 50 lb. object 25 feet. Position may require extended periods outdoors during adverse conditions such as heat, cold or rain. Must use and wear appropriate safety equipment such as eye and ear protection, gloves, etc.
Preferred Qualifications
First Aid and CPR certification Chainsaw operation Landscaping/yard work experience Previous experience with boundary and/or survey work GIS experience Basic hand tool skills Invasive species identification
Hours
40 per week
Living Accommodations
This is a non-residential, commuting-based program. Members are responsible for their own transportation to and from the work site and will report daily for scheduled work hours before departing at the end of the workday.
Compensation
$20.00/Hour
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
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.
