Position Summary
Are you passionate about nature, education, and community impact? The School Grounds Greening Fellow at the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy (WPC) will engage in a full-time (40 hours/week) immersive experience with WPC’s Community Greening Department. This position supports the transformation of schoolyards and public spaces into vibrant, green learning environments. The Fellow will expand education and stewardship efforts tied to WPC’s School Grounds Greening Program and community flower gardens, with a focus on under-resourced urban areas. The role combines outdoor fieldwork and indoor coordination, offering a dynamic mix of environmental education, nonprofit experience, and volunteer engagement. This is a hands-on opportunity to inspire students, support greener communities, and gain valuable career experience. You will be a key member of WPC’s Community Greening Department, contributing directly to projects that bring environmental education and green infrastructure to life.
Hosting Organization
Western Pennsylvania Conservancy
Location
Pittsburgh, PA
- This position is primarily in an urban setting where emergency services, public transportation, and cell phone reception are available within 30 minutes. Interactions with members of the public are regular and frequent.
Schedule
September 28, 2026 – December 18, 2026
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Greening Fellow placed with the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy (WPC) will participate in a full-time (40 hours per week) hands-on immersion into WPC’s community greening department. This position will work to expand education and stewardship activities related to WPC’s school grounds greening program and community flower gardens. This position requires partial service outdoors in all weather conditions and office work. The fellow will also provide volunteer management opportunities in partner communities.
Support the Education & Special Projects Coordinator with implementing school greening initiatives; Utilize the community flower gardens program to provide educational opportunities to students outside of the traditional classroom; Facilitate environmental education and hands-on learning sessions for students and student volunteer groups to support teachers and existing curriculum; Provide field-based experiences in nature and opportunities for career awareness and exploration; Help educate and engage an estimated 200 school-aged children through planting events and stewardship activities that highlight the benefits of native plants and healthy ecosystems.
Marginal Duties
- Update and organize educational materials used in youth programming
- Assist with the design process for one new outdoor classroom at a school
- Provide volunteer management and support for community greening events in partner neighborhoods
Required Qualifications
- Pennsylvania Child Protection Clearances are required for this position.
- WPC will reimburse the cost and provide links to apply: Child Abuse History Clearance
- PA State Police Criminal Record Check:
- FBI Fingerprinting (via IdentoGO)
- Driver’s license and a willingness to drive WPC vehicles is required.
- Participants must possess a high school diploma or its equivalent or agree to obtain one or be enrolled in an institution of higher education.
- Experience with outdoor work, environmental projects, gardening, landscaping, or conservation activities
- Ability to work safely and comfortably outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices
- High school diploma or equivalent required; college coursework or a degree in environmental science, education, biology, ecology, sustainability, or a related field preferred.
- Strong communication, organization, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to perform outdoor physical work, including walking, bending, lifting, planting, and working in varying weather conditions.
- Experience or demonstrated interest in environmental conservation, environmental education, gardening, restoration, or community-based programming.
Preferred Qualifications
Familiarity with Pittsburgh’s neighborhoods and schools is a plus. You’ll gain practical skills in education, sustainability, and community engagement while helping build greener, healthier school environments across Pittsburgh. This role is perfect for someone looking to turn their passion for nature and service into meaningful action.
Hours
40 per week
Living Accommodations
Housing is not provided.
Compensation
- Living allowance – $600/week
- One-time travel allowance $650
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
- Recommended
Driving
Driving a motor vehicle for the partner agency/organization is a requirement for this position.
To be able to drive a motor vehicle for the SCA, you must:
- Be able to complete or fulfill all partner driving requirements.
Additional Benefits
- Defensive Driving Training
- Interpretive Skills
- 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.
