Join the SCA to help restore one of the most biologically diverse landscapes in the Midwest while gaining hands-on conservation experience at Indiana Dunes National Park. As part of a Student Conservation Association crew, you'll work alongside National Park Service staff to remove invasive plants, collect native seeds, and improve habitat for wildlife in iconic areas like Cowles Dunes and West Beach. Over 16 weeks, you'll develop practical field skills, contribute to large-scale ecosystem restoration, and make a measurable impact by helping expand invasive species treatment across the park. This is an exciting opportunity for young adults who enjoy working outdoors, want to build a career in conservation, and are ready to leave a lasting mark on a national park.
Hosting Organization
Indiana Dunes National Park
Location
Porter, IN
Schedule
August 24, 2026 - December 11, 2026
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Marginal Duties
TRAINING PARTICIPATION: Participating in SCA led training sessions, attending partner led training sessions, participating in online and advanced skills training when offered.
Required Qualifications
WORK ETHIC: Possess a strong work ethic and willingness to work outdoors in challenging conditions and willing to learn;
MANUAL LABOR ABILITY: Be able to perform manual labor for up to 8 hours per day, occasionally lifting/moving 40 pounds or more;
LEGAL ELIGIBILITY: Be legally eligible to work in the United States;
US ELIGIBILITY: Be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or national;
MINIMUM AGE: Be at least 18 years old;
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENT: Have a high school diploma or equivalent (or actively working to complete one); BACKGROUND CHECKS: Be willing to undergo National Service Criminal History Checks, including background, sex offender, and FBI checks.
Preferred Qualifications
Candidates with a strong understanding of plant ID or field work experience are highly encouraged to apply.
General Physical Requirements
Able to understand, adhere to, and communicate with others regarding hazards, procedures, and safety policies.
Able to independently manage known medical conditions with the resources available throughout the position or program.
Able to wear all required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hard hats, gloves, N95 or other approved face mask or shield, and appropriate footwear.Able to refrain from behaviors and actions that disrupt the work and safety of others.
Able to cooperate with others to complete daily group tasks, responsibilities, and project work under potentially difficult conditions, variable daily routines, and with limited personal time.
Able to self-regulate or co-regulate emotions and actions when distressed or uncomfortable, with or without the support of others.
Able to self-manage outdoor and environmental exposure (e.g., temperature, wind, sun, etc.) in a variety of weather conditions.
Able to maintain adequate nutrition and hydration throughout program time.
Working Conditions
Work schedules and projects may change on short notice or be ambiguous.;Work settings require the ability to positively interact with people of varying perspectives.;Work settings may be located in natural environments and regionally significant locations that require respect for the land and local peoples.;Work environment may be in inclement and severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and flash flooding, gusty and strong winds, foggy or decreased visibility, lightning events, and/or decreased or inclement air quality conditions due to wildfire smoke or smog.;Work may take place in warm temperatures and adverse heat conditions which could include temperatures in some regions up to 110°F or hotter.;Work may take place in cold temperatures and adverse winter weather which could include temperatures in some regions -20°F or colder with wind, snow, and sleet.;Work settings may involve exposure to natural and environmental hazards, such as poison ivy, poison oak, or poison sumac; harmful, poisonous, or disease-carrying ticks, mosquitos, insects, snakes, bears, and other wildlife.
Hours
35 per week
Living Accommodations
n/a
Compensation
$18/hr
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
Preferred but not Required
Additional Benefits
Defensive Driving Training
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.
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) is the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and adults.
Our program participants protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries, cultural landmarks and community green spaces at various locations across the country.
After working with the SCA, our members emerge with increased environmental awareness, social responsibility and leadership skills.
As America’s most effective youth conservation service organization, the SCA transforms lives by empowering young people of all backgrounds to plan, act, and lead while they protect and restore our natural and cultural resources.
Founded in 1957, the SCA is dedicated to building the next generation of conservation leaders while inspiring lifelong protection of the environment and our communities.
SCA's mission is to build the next generation of conservation leaders and inspire lifelong stewardship of our environment and communities by engaging young people in hands-on service to the land.
