
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
Required Qualifications
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
Hours
Living Accommodations
Compensation
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
Additional Benefits
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.