Job Description

Our SCA field ranger will help with outreach and education for the Siuslaw National Forest, focusing on educating the public and youth about the importance of nature, restoration, and responsible recreation. The SCA Field Ranger will assist with fall classroom programming with local schools, including the Every Kid Outdoors pass program, field trips, tabling outreach at unique forest sites, guided hikes, community events, forest projects, and more. SCA field rangers are expected to create 1-2 education programs, 1 guided hike, and become knowledgeable about the Siuslaw mission.

Location

Waldport, OR

Schedule

September 14, 2026 - December 18, 2026

Key Duties and Responsibilities

SCA Field Ranger crew members will:

• Serve as professional representatives of the U.S. Forest Service in the Siuslaw National Forest
• Staff recreational sites in the Siuslaw National Forest, including the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, and Marys Peak Scenic Botanical Area.
• Provide information on recreational opportunities, resource significance and the role of the Forest Service in these locations
• Research, develop, and present interpretive programs and presentations for diverse public and educational audiences
• Represent the Forest Service at outreach events in surrounding communities and partner sites
• Work with schools/youth organizations to create educational programs that connect youth to public lands
• Support the work of Forest Service specialists by assisting fieldwork projects in multiple resource areas
• Develop interpretive messages using a variety of media and technology to support Forest Service missions
• Lead outreach efforts for threatened wildlife species and critical habitats
• Support campground initiative to reduce human food sources and promote awareness of coastal shorebird and seabird protection
• Connect with OHV users and other recreation groups to support Oregon Dunes restoration and Western snowy plover protection efforts.

Marginal Duties

• Strengthen outreach and education partnerships to build lasting community connections
• Provide crew with experience and skills relevant to future career goals
• Promote the restoration missions of the Siuslaw National Forest in a way to strengthen public involvement.

Required Qualifications

• An education focus in earth sciences, life sciences, education, recreation or related fields of study.
• Will need valid state drivers license.
• Able to work in various outdoor environments (rain, sun, wind).
• Able to hike moderate rated forest trails at moderate pace.
• Must have the ability to talk to groups of people of various ages.
• Must be able to work within a team.

This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.

Preferred Qualifications

• Have worked within education or summer camps.
• Have led guided hikes.
• Have been a part of field work projects.

Hours

40 per week

Living Accommodations

Bunkhouse room will be provided and each individual has their own room but share a living space and may share restrooms with other members of the bunkhouse. Government housing for SCA interns is currently at the 8-bedroom unit in Waldport, OR. This is a decent facility furnished with basic necessities; each bedroom has a bed, desk, and a closet. There is a large kitchen, community laundry room, and a sitting area with TV. Basic kitchen supplies including tableware and a small number of pots and pans are provided; if you love to cook, you may wish to bring your own favorite tools. You are expected to supply your own bedding (twin beds) and towels. Tenants will determine amongst themselves how to coordinate cleaning supply costs, toilet paper, etc. Since this is government housing there are basic rules and regulations we'll discuss with you when you arrive.

Compensation

• $425 weekly living allowance
• $650 round-trip travel allowance
• $500 duty-related travel reimbursement (receipts required)
• On-site housing provided

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

Personal Vehicle Information

Recommended

Additional Benefits

Defensive Driving Training

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.