Love nature? Want to make a difference in Northwest Indiana?
Join SCA Urban Green for hands-on conservation work, planting trees, restoring habitats, gaining environmental job skills, and exploring the region’s unique ecosystems. Get paid while creating a healthier, more sustainable Northwest Indiana.
Our Programs: Urban Forestry & Ecological Restoration
SCA Urban Green members work at sites across Northwest Indiana, gaining job-specific training and certifications in urban forestry and ecological restoration. As an Urban Green program member, you will:
Since 2016, we’ve planted over 10,000 trees and partnered with organizations like the U.S. Forest Service, CommuniTree, local municipalities, and the National Park Service to empower young adults in Northwest Indiana.
Ready to join us? Explore our current opportunities and apply today!
SCA Urban Green members in Northwest Indiana gain paid, hands-on experience in urban forestry and ecological restoration. Plant trees, restore habitats, build skills, explore careers, and learn about the local environment through field trips and outdoor activities. Get job-specific training and certifications, develop leadership skills, and prepare for a rewarding career in conservation.
Field Leader – Delta Institute – Community Forest Crew (Lake County, Indiana)
This position will supervise a group of three crew members (ages 18+) planting trees in Lake County, Indiana. The crew will be responsible for the installation of 447 trees/saplings and 333 seedlings. The crew will also lead demonstrations of tree planting for local volunteers and host eight community volunteer tree-planting events.
Expected dates: April 14 – May 4, 2024 (paid mandatory training), May 6 – Nov. 8, 2024 (program dates).
Pay: $800/wk stipend, $1,100 travel stipend, $45/mo cell phone reimbursement.
Apply NowField Leader – Calumet Urban Forestry Crew (East Chicago, Indiana)
This position will supervise four young adult crew members (ages 18+), planting and maintaining trees in Northwest Indiana urban communities.
Expected dates: April 14 – May 4, 2024 (paid mandatory training), May 6, 2024 – Jan. 3, 2025 (program dates).
Pay: $800/wk stipend, $45/mo cell phone reimbursement.
Apply NowEcological Restoration Crew Member
This position will work to inspect, manage and maintain a wide range of habitats, both natural and disturbed. Daily tasks include invasive species control, native seed installation, native plug planting, tree/shrub installation, urban forestry & field data collection or other tasks related to habitat restoration.
Expected dates: May 13 – Sept. 27, 2024.
Pay: $18/hr
For more information about this position, please contact Leopold Sawyers, Northwest Indiana Program Manager.
Build your resume and prepare for a future career in conservation. You will gain valuable experience in public service, outdoor recreation and develop professional skills through teambuilding and leadership activities. You will work with a diverse group of peers and earn certifications in areas like outdoor ethics, habitat restoration, chainsaw operation, CPR and more.
Chainsaw Certification
CPR Certification
Financial Literacy
Habitat & Trail Restoration
Leave No Trace
Outdoor Ethics
Resume Building
Our Urban Green program wouldn't be possible without the incredible support from our amazing partners! Public agencies, local municipalities, environmental organizations, schools, and community groups all come together to fuel our mission and provide Northwest Indiana teens and young adults with paid opportunities to make a real difference in their communities.
Hear what Urban Green crew members say about the program.
Protect and restore national parks, marine sanctuaries and community green spaces across the U.S.
Be a part of the movement to protect the planet and the communities we serve.
We are the largest provider of hands-on environmental conservation programs for youth and young adults.
SCA Northwest Indiana Office
Leo Sawyers, SCA Northwest Indiana Program Manager
Phone: (603) 504-3231
Email: lsawyers@thesca.org.