Intern Handbook

This is your go-to resource for getting inspired, keeping track of logistics and making the most of your SCA experience. Print it out for use throughout your internship.

Time Logs 

You will complete and approve your timesheets in ADP Workforce Manager, which is accessible in your ADP portal. To access Workforce Manager, log into your ADP account at https://workforcenow.adp.com. From the ADP homepage, click “Workforce Manager Time and Attendance” under Helpful Links. This document walks your through the steps for the completing your timesheets.

Member and Leader Workforce Management Instructions

Time Logs vs Output Logs

Output Logs

The process for completing output logs has changed. Interns and leaders will receive an email from the SCA every two weeks, with a link and instructions for completing the output log.

AmeriCorps

If you are enrolled in AmeriCorps, go to the AmeriCorps page for more information about benefits and responsibilities of this program.

Professional Development

We encourage members and site supervisors to meet in the beginning and go over expectations and goals during the position. Please download this template to complete during the first week. One method we suggest to complete this worksheet is using SMART goals, that is Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Results-focused, and Time-focused. Feel free to also use this guide – How to Handle Me Memo.

If you’re interested learning about USFS careers, you can view a 2022 speaker session.

  • Click here to view USFS Tips for Job Seekers.
  • Click here to view USFS Hiring Eligibility and Qualifications.
  • Click here to view USFS How to Write a Federal Resume.
  • Click here to view USFS Guide to Navigating USA Jobs.

Member Reimbursements

The form for completing reimbursement requests and uploading receipts has changed. Moving forward, members requesting reimbursement for expenses will submit the reimbursement at this link: https://www.cognitoforms.com/thestudentconservationassociation1/programreimbursement.

Before submitting a request, make sure your supervisor has given you the okay that this is an allowable expense.

If you are unsure of what your “Position #” on the form, please write in “UNKNOWN,” and your SCA advisor can assist and update that once the form is submitted.

Managing Risk

While conservation service work has inherent risks, the SCA and partners strive for the safest work environment possible. Should anything occur that may impact your personal safety or wellbeing, contact your SCA advisor as soon as possible. Your SCA advisor will submit an incident report to help you get the care you need and to engage with organizational resources to support you. In addition to your site’s policies, procedures, and other safety-related systems and processes, all SCA internships receive Worker’s Compensation for work-related injury and illness.

Working at the SCA could mean working in very remote areas. Some of which might require flights or ferries to reach the nearest medical facility. In unforeseen circumstances, accidents can always happen. Please come prepared with enough available finances to cover any non-work related costs including but not limited to transportation, lodging, medical, and food. There are insurance options available that can help you during an unfortunate situation, such as DAN.

The SCA provides interns with the following safety-related tools, as well:

  • Intern Emergency Line: (571) 895-1799
    SCA staff are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the event an intern experiences an unexpected emergency while serving in their position. Save this number in your phone at the start of your position (571) 895-1799. This number should be used if your SCA advisor is not available or if you need assistance outside of normal work hours. Including your SCA advisor or staff at this emergency number as early as possible ensures the SCA can enact organizational resources to support you. Always call 911 or emergency services, first, in the event of a life threatening emergency or if in immediate danger.
  • Worker’s Compensation
    Worker’s Compensation (WC) is additional insurance coverage that may apply to interns who are injured or ill at the workplace. WC is regulated by the state a worker’s employer or host site performs their duties. Reporting all work-related injuries and illnesses to your SCA advisor within 24 hours is essential to initiate a WC claim. WC claims are intended to help with the medical costs associated with each claim, however the amount of coverage is determined by SCA’s WC carrier. 
  • COVID-19 Response Plan
    The SCA’s COVID-19 Response Plan is designed to mitigate COVID related risks to SCA members, staff, and the communities in which the SCA serves. As the pandemic continues to evolve, the SCA’s policies and procedures are assessed and updated. The SCA’s COVID-19 strategy is informed by CDC guidance and in consultation with the SCA’s medical advisor. More information on COVID-19-related policies can be found on the COVID-19 webpage, or ask your SCA advisor for a copy of the current set of national policies.
  • Safety Resources

Public Land Corps (PLC) Hiring Authority

The public lands corps act provides you the opportunity to work in federal lands, and to apply to the hiring authority. Please watch this training video for more information. Your service hours can be a cumulation to reach 640. Work hours don’t include sick or holiday time. The last day of your completed service will be the first day on your certification to start applying for federal jobs. Please attach both the form and certification on USAJobs.

Non-SCA Resources

Your SCA position might make you eligible for Food Stamps. If interested, reach out to your work state for more information. Your SCA advisor can provide you with a letter of stipend for processing.

Connect with your SCA Advisor

Your SCA Advisor is here to support you and help guide you on your internship journey. If you have any questions about your internship that cannot be addressed through the resources above, reach out to them with your question. SCA Advisors are also great resources for you as you think about what kind of career you are thinking about and how you can translate your internship experience into your next career steps.

Chris-Michael Tena
ctena@thesca.org

Chris Burley
cburley@thesca.org

Hannah Ashley
hashley@thesca.org

Shamar Jackson
sjackson@thesca.org

Crystal Townsel
ctownsel@thesca.org

Bruce Midgette
bmidgette@thesca.org

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