Transform Your Future!

Ready to protect parks in the Tri-State Area and build a greener future? Get paid to work outdoors, restore natural spaces, and explore environmental careers with the Student Conservation Association’s Urban Green program. We’ve been transforming green spaces in the Metro New York Region since 1999 – now it’s your turn to make an impact!

Why Join SCA Urban Green?

  • Get Paid: Earn while learning valuable green job skills.
  • Gain Experience: Explore career pathways in conservation.
  • Make a Difference: Help create a healthier, more sustainable Metro New York Region.

What We Offer:

  • School Year & Summer Programs: Flexible options for teens and young adults.
  • Hands-On Conservation: Build trails, restore habitats and more.
  • Career Development: Learn job readiness skills and explore green careers.
  • Community: Join a diverse team of peers passionate about the environment.

To support the SCA’s mission in the Metro New York Region, make a gift today.

Program Overview

Serving New York City, New Jersey and Connecticut.

  • Metro New York Urban Green

    Urban Green New York City Members jumping in air celebrating

    The SCA’s Metro NY Urban Green program is designed for high school students and recent graduates (ages 14-19) throughout the New York City, New Jersey and Connecticut metro area.

    Join us for paid outdoor conservation projects, where you’ll gain hands-on conservation experience.

    This competitive program equips participants with valuable knowledge and experience to make a difference in your community and beyond.

Current Opportunities

Serving New York City, New Jersey and Connecticut.

  • Field Leader - 2026 Stamford Urban Forestry Program

    The SCA is seeking a Field Leader (age 21+) to mentor and train a crew member for its 2026 Stamford Urban Forestry Program. This two-person crew will participate in tree planting, tree care and maintenance, including pruning, watering, mulching, and root flare restoration. Additional tasks include preparing planting sites through the removal and remediation of invasive species.

    Program Dates: March 2 – June 12, 2026
    Pay: $1,000/wk.

    Learn More & Apply
  • Crew Member - 2026 Stamford Urban Forestry Program

    The SCA is seeking a Crew Member (age 18+) for its 2026 Stamford Urban Forestry Program. This two-person crew will participate in tree planting, tree care and maintenance, including pruning, watering, mulching, and root flare restoration. Additional tasks include preparing planting sites through the removal and remediation of invasive species.

    Program Dates: March 16 – June 12, 2026
    Pay: $22.50/hr.

    Learn More & Apply
Skills & Training

Professional Development

The focus of the program is on outdoor conservation stewardship projects. Urban Green program participants learn how to work with a diverse team of peers; gain knowledge of public land resources, environmental issues, and career readiness skills. Participants also increase their understanding of environmental and trail restoration techniques; acquire experience in public service and outdoor recreation; and develop valuable professional skills through teambuilding and leadership activities.

Climate Change Icon Climate Change Awareness
Environmental Education Icon Environmental Education
Financial Literacy Icon Financial Literacy
Green Jobs Preparedness & Job Training Icon Green Jobs Preparedness
A logo of a person with holding a shovel Habitat Restoration
Justice Equity Diversity Inclusion (JEDI) Icon Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (JEDI)

Key Partners

Our Urban Green program wouldn't be possible without the incredible support from our amazing partners! Public agencies, environmental organizations, schools, and community groups all come together to fuel our mission and provide teens and young adults with paid opportunities to make a real difference in their communities.

Contact Us

SCA Metro NY Region Office
John Donovan, Metro NY Region Director
Phone: (203) 913-1709
Email: JDonovan@thesca.org

Pablo Galesi, Metro NY Region Program Manager
Phone: (347) 200-4709
Email: pgalesi@thesca.org

 

Empowering the Next Generation

NYC Urban Green Acadian Exploration Crew members hiking in woods at Acadia National Park

Future Leaders

Hear what Urban Green crew members say about the program.

Watch Now

Two men standing near a pickup truck

Our Programs

Protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries and community green spaces across the U.S.

Learn More

Urban Green New York City Members jumping in air celebrating

Join The Crew

Be a part of the movement to protect the planet and the communities we serve.

View Positions

Three SCA crew members smiling outside

About The SCA

We are the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and young adults.

Learn More

Follow The Work We Do

Join our community of supporters who care deeply about preserving parks, public lands and urban green spaces.

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Protect What You Love

Join our community of supporters who care deeply about preserving America’s parks, public lands, and urban green spaces.