Individual Placement- Grounds and Natural Landscapes at Student Conservation Association

Johnston, Iowa, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

28 May, 26

Salary

800.0

Posted On

27 Feb, 26

Experience

0 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Groundskeeping, Natural Resource Management, Mowing, Tree Planting, Painting, Playground Inspections, Trash Removal, Invasive Species Management, String Trimming, Facility Cleaning, Prairie Management, Chainsaw Operation, Pruning, Campground Management, Fee Booth Staffing, Visitor Center Support

Industry

Environmental Services

Description

Position Summary This internship offers a hands-on opportunity to assist USACE Park Rangers and volunteers in maintaining recreation areas of the Saylorville Lake Project located in Johnston, IA. Interns will be vital in ensuring our parks, campgrounds, and trails remain in excellent condition for the public. Key responsibilities will involve a variety of tasks including groundskeeping, natural resource management, and operational support. Interns are expected to begin work from 0730-1600 (Mon-Fri), first checking in with staff on daily projects and tasks. Intern’s will often be working in tandem with natural resource staff & volunteers and may on occasion be instructed to work independently depending on the work. Interns will engage in a wide array of work including but not limited to mowing, tree planting, painting, playground inspections, trash removal/collection, invasive species management and assisting with interpretive program/events. Location Johnston, IL Schedule May 18, 2026 - August 28, 2026 Key Duties and Responsibilities The intern's primary responsibility will be the upkeep and beautification of the park, involving groundskeeping duties such as mowing, string trimming, trash removal, painting and cleaning of facilities. This role also includes more technical landscape management, like assisting with prairie management, invasive species management, tree removal, chipping, and pruning with chainsaws and pole saws. While the core of the position is centered on this vital maintenance work, the intern will also gain a broad range of experience by supporting other operational needs. Marginal Duties Other duties may include assisting with recreational services like campground management, staffing fee booths and the interpretive visitor center, helping with volunteer programs, maintaining navigational buoys, and contributing to environmental objectives such as invasive species management and habitat improvement. Required Qualifications • Must be at least 18 years old on start date. • Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license. • Must complete defensive driving training provided by the government. • Must have a high school diploma or equivalent. • Must have the ability to effectively speak, read, and write in English. • Must have the ability to work outdoors and lift up to 40 pounds. • Must wear SCA provided attire while on duty. Preferred Qualifications Experience using Outdoor Power Equipment (OPE) is preferred but not required. We are looking for self-motivated individuals who are eager to learn and are interested in a career in natural resource management field. Hours 40 per week Living Accommodations Housing is not provided. Compensation $560 - weekly Living Allowance $75 – weekly Commuting Allowance $800 – monthly Housing Allowance $650 – Relocation Travel Grant (based on actual expense, capped at $650) All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes. Personal Vehicle Information Recommended Additional Benefits Defensive Driving Training Off-Road Vehicle Safety 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.

Responsibilities

The intern's primary role involves the upkeep and beautification of the park through groundskeeping duties such as mowing, trash removal, and facility cleaning. This position also includes technical landscape management like assisting with prairie management, invasive species control, and operating chainsaws for tree work.