FAQ

How do I attach my application to a position?

You don't! Specify in which program you are most interested and let us know in your cover letter. Then, when your application is complete, and you email leaders@thesca.org, put the position in the subject line of your email.

This is my first time applying and I want to go to Alaska, what do I need to do?

National Crew placements for leaders is determined based on skill, experience with SCA, certifications, and co-leader dynamics. We put a good amount of thought into the who, what, when, and where questions for leader placement and we need our leaders to be flexible with their location preferences.

I live in Oregon and want to work for SCA but I don't see any programs here.

That's the great thing about being an SCA Field Leader, we fly you out to where your project is, and back home again! If you are in a situation that keeps you from leaving home for extended periods of time, then check out the Community Crew Leader positions. They are only in select cities, but this is our only 8-5pm job. Sorry, Oregon.

How do I know if I'm qualified for a Field Leader position?

Field Leaders need to have 4 basic qualifications- outdoor experience (or the desire to work outdoors), conservation work experience (or a desire to learn!), experience working with youth or young adults, and demonstrated leadership experience. Specific qualifications like medical certifications and specific project skills needed can be found on the individual Field Leader position job announcements (link). If you don't have enough experience, try looking into our Conservation Corps program. These internships will give you all the trainings and skills you need to be a great SCA Field Leader.

I finished my application and haven't heard anything. What's going on?

Did you email us at leaders@thesca.org to let us know you finished your application? Be proactive – let us know you're interested! Most managers start reviewing applications in January for summer positions.

I'm a returning Field Leader or an SCA Alum- how do I update my application for 2012 or apply to be an SCA Field Leader?

Returning Field Leaders- log into your application & update your availability, contact information, certifications, and attach the most current form of your resume.

SCA High School or Intern Alumni- log into your application & create a Field Leader application.
Once you’ve finished creating or updating your application, be sure to email leaders@thesca.org to check in!

What kind of Field Leader position is right for me?

Be sure to review our Program Types (link) & don’t hesitate to contact us at leaders@thesca.org with any questions. Also check out this Seasonal Employment Chart- it might just help you wade through the many types of Field Leader positions that SCA has to offer.

Does the SCA have any positions in the off-season (Fall/Winter/Spring)?

Yes! SCA has Project Leader positions that run year-round, as well as school year position for Community Leaders in select cities around the country. SCA also has professional development opportunities for Field Leaders including:

• Leader Teams- serve on a team of fellow SCA Field Leaders to complete important conservation projects.
• Trainings- American Canoe Association Instructor Trainings, WFR certifications, rock workshops, crosscut sharpening certification courses and more are offered in the off-season for interested SCA Field Leaders.
• Scholarships- SCA offers several scholarship opportunities to attend conferences and other courses to keep you moving forward in your conservation career.

Most professional development opportunities require that you have worked as an SCA Field Leader previously or have been a member on an SCA Corps program, so get crackin’! Contact leaders@thesca.org with any questions.

I’m 19, and I really want to become an SCA Field Leader. What’s out there for me?

SCA offers Apprentice Crew Leader positions to a select group of SCA Alumni of our National High School & Community programs. If you are 19 or 20, have a strong interest in becoming an SCA Field Leader when you turn 21 and have been on an SCA program as a high school student, email leaders@thesca.org for more information.

Consider also applying for a position as a Conservation Corps intern. Corps members get a jump start on building the skills that prepare you to flex those SCA leadership muscles once you turn 21.