Position Summary 

This crew, based at the Oldtown Maintenance Shop in Oldtown, MD, will support C&O Canal maintenance staff with daily tasks along the towpath. Members will remove vegetation from historic stone structures such as culverts, locks, flumes, and walls, as well as assist with removing fallen trees. The crew, composed of two members, will work under an SCA crew leader alongside NPS partners and staff. As NPS capacity allows, opportunities may include earning chainsaw certification, masonry projects, and carpentry projects. Basic First Aid and CPR training will be provided if needed. Successful completion may qualify members for Public Land Corps (PLC) Hiring Authority, granting eligibility for federal merit-based job openings for two years.

Location 

Oldtown, MD

Schedule 

May 4 - August 28, 2026

Alternating A/B Week Schedule  

A Week: Monday – Thursday 6:00am – 3:30pm  

B Week: Monday – Friday 6:00 am – 3:30 pm   

Schedule subject to change as directed by SCA or NPS.  

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

Work collaboratively with team members and SCA partners and staff completing designated work projects; Learn and develop skills in vegetation removal, mower use, power tools use, plant ID, and forest health; Participate in outdoor conservation field work and nature stewardship education; Participate in career builder activities and National Park Service trainings.

Marginal Duties 

• Participate in environmental education learning activities
• Complete feedback surveys and letters of reflection
• Participate in professional development sessions like career panels, SMART Goal planning, and other trainings when available.

Required Qualifications 

• Ability to perform manual, physical labor for up to 9 hours per day, exposed to the elements, and must occasionally lift and/or move 40 pounds or more
• Must be a minimum of 18 years of age
• Must have the ability to legally work in the US
• Must be able to meet SCA’s criminal background check standards.

Optional Benefit: 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 

• Experience working with tools and vegetation removal a plus
• Experience working in team a plus
• Experience working outdoors highly preferred

Hours 

• 40 per week

Living Accommodations 

• No housing provided
• Persons must already have secured housing locally prior to starting the position
• Candidates must confirm housing during phone screen or interview

Compensation  

• Living Allowance: $600/week
• Housing Allowance: $400/month
• Pay Schedule: Paid biweekly

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

Personal Vehicle Information

• Recommended

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.