Job Description

Job Title: Western Corps Program Assistant

Reports to: Program Manager – Western Corps

Status: Full-Time Non - Exempt, Temporary (May - September 2026)

Salary: $23.22 / Hour

Location: Ridgecrest, CA (Hybrid-Remote)

The Program Assistant will work as part of the Western Corps staff to assist in the operational and administrative aspects of all Western programs. The Program Assistant will provide support for crews, while ensuring that site partner, leader, and member outcomes are achieved in a safe and responsible manner. During their term, the Program Assistant will be the caretaker of Western Corps’ operational hub in Ridgecrest, CA.

This position will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of Western Corps operational hub in Ridgecrest, CA and will require travel to support teams.

Job Responsibilities:

Program Support

• Completes general administrative tasks as assigned.

• Supports the management of SCA provided housing and facilities such as the Western Corps’ operational hub.

• Supports the field readiness of crews.

• Provide logistical and operational support to crews in the field.

• Temporarily provide leadership for a team in the field should a leader be unable to continue their position.

• Repair and/or replace broken/damaged gear, equipment and tools.

• Supports the management of SCA Fleet and Rental Vehicles and trailers (prepare vehicles for programs to use, cleaning and taking in for maintenance, transport vehicles to field locations, and other vehicle related management activities).

Program Improvements

• Supports elements of program trainings and work skills such as setting up training camp, facilitating modules or shuttling members to training.
• Work in collaboration with team members to create and support a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, teamwork and empowerment.
• Assists in the development of programmatic materials such as handbooks, field logs, and enrollment forms.

Facilities Maintenance

• Collaborate with other Western Corps staff in training leaders and members on cleaning standards and relevant facility operations.

• Ensure upkeep of buildings and property by modeling proper care and maintenance of facilities.

• Complete landscaping, watering and other routine maintenance of the program's facilities.

Qualifications:

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent; must be at least 21 years old.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a fast‑paced, highly mobile team.
• Strong computer skills, particularly with Microsoft Office.
• Ability to travel for extended periods and work an irregular schedule.
• Ability to complete administrative tasks accurately and on time.
• Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification, or ability to obtain by 6/1/26.
• Ability to represent SCA professionally and uphold all SCA policies and safety standards.

Preferred

• Current Wilderness First Responder certification.
• Crosscut saw certification.
• Experience hauling trailers or operating fleet vehicles.
• Experience living or working in remote, backcountry, or field‑based environments.
• Prior experience in conservation, outdoor programs, or youth development settings.

Travel Requirements:

• Must possess a valid driver’s license and have a Motor Vehicle Record that meets SCA standards.
• Ability to drive and trailer haul over a variety of terrain.
• The ability to travel outsidefor extended periods of time.

Benefits:

• Housing Available
• Employer-Paid Life Insurance, AD&D Insurance, and Short-Term Disability
• Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurances, Pet Insurance, and more
• Free confidential therapy, Teladoc, and financial planning services
• Generous PTO policy (starting at 22 days a year)
• 12 Paid Federal Holidays and Floating Holiday, Community Service, and Education hours
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with employer match
• Paid Parental Leave (up to 4 weeks)

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.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.