Paid work now, a plan for what comes next.
As a Landforce Crew Member you get to work on a productive, fun team. The work is hands-on. It is hard work, but it is rewarding, not just because of the people you work with but because you are having an impact on the quality of life in this region.
Start working now
As a Landforce Crew Member you assist Landforce with land stewardship contracts on a seasonal basis. Projects may include constructing trails, restoring habitats, installing gardens, managing vacant lots, maintaining green infrastructure, planting and caring for trees, and other land stewardship projects. Training and transitional employment are paid.
Contribute to the community
The work you do with Landforce provides important benefits to the community. Restoring and maintaining public lands means there are healthy green spaces that people can enjoy, and that make our community a nicer place to live.
Receive training for jobs that need workers
Landforce prepares Crew Members for jobs that need workers in two ways. First, we partner with you to identify the opportunities you would like to pursue, the skills and trainings you might need, and the obstacles you may need to address. Second, we partner directly with employers, get to know their needs, and help you identify a good match and apply for permanent positions.
Apply and be hired for a permanent job
You receive customized training and support services, and you have dedicated time to improve your ability to find new work after you leave the program, including dedicated time for job searching, interviewing and applications. In 2014, 75% of Crew Members walked directly into permanent jobs after working with us, and every year since those results have gotten better.
Discover yourself
Crew Members say that the job opportunities are only part of how their lives improved. They report more self-confidence, self-worth, perseverance and a sense of pride in improving community assets. Many say that working to improve the community is why they felt a change.
Once, I destroyed communities. Now I build them.A Landforce Crew Memberquoted on landforcepgh.org
Eight weeks of paid training, then paid work.
Crew Members begin with eight weeks of paid training that results in seven industry-recognized certifications. Training continues during paid transitional employment in Land Stewardship or Responsible Wood Production. Along the way you work with the Workforce Development team on an Employment Action Plan, weekly SMART-goal meetings, résumé and cover letters, mock interviews with employer partners, financial literacy and mental health first aid.
In 2024, 88% of finishers were offered employment within two weeks of the season’s end, and 90% of program finishers remain employed more than 12 months later.