Urban Green – Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie Crew Member

The Urban Green – Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie Crew Member position at the Student Conservation Association involves supporting native seed production and ecological restoration in Wilmington, IL. Crew members will maintain seed production beds, learn plant identification, and assist with natural resource work. Participants must be aged 16-30 or veterans under 36, and the role runs from May to October 2026, offering $18/hr for 35 hours per week.
Position Summary


This project supports native seed production and ecological restoration at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. Crew members will help maintain seed production beds through planting, weeding, mulching, seed collection, and nursery care while learning native plant identification and restoration techniques. Participants will be trained to use restoration equipment and assist with related natural resource work such as vegetation management and wildlife monitoring. The overall goal is to build practical restoration skills while contributing to the long-term health and recovery of prairie ecosystems.



Location


Wilmington, IL



Schedule


May 4, 2026 – October 30, 2026



Key Duties and Responsibilities


• Assisting Horticulturist and Biological Science Technicians maintain and improve seed production beds through various methods including seedbed preparation (herbicide application/mowing), planting native plant plugs, weeding seed beds and applying mulch.
• Assisting with regular and seasonal responsibilities of the Horticultural program including maintaining nursery plant stock; collecting, cleaning, and storing native seed.
• Learning native plant identification; being trained in restoration techniques and standard procedures to operate restoration equipment such as tablets for field work, planting augers, mowers, weed trimmer, etc.
• Assisting with additional natural resource specialty areas such as botany/vegetation management, hydrology, recreation, and wildlife surveys and monitoring.
• Assist Midewin Restoration staff through positively interacting and working with volunteers and student crews at restoration workdays.



Marginal Duties


TRAINING PARTICIPATION: Participating in SCA led training sessions, attending partner led training sessions, participating in online and advanced skills training when offered


CREW SUPPORT: Supporting crew needs and project objectives as necessary.



Required Qualifications


This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority. Members must be able to obtain an IL herbicide applicators license before program start date.



This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.



Preferred Qualifications


Candidates with a strong understanding of plant ID or field work experience are highly encouraged to apply.



Hours


35 per week



Living Accommodations


N/A



Compensation


$18/hr


All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.



Personal Vehicle Information


Recommended



Additional Benefits


Defensive Driving Training
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.