Join the Environmental Conservation Corps (ECC) in South Carolina

Build Your Career. Protect the Coast.

Turn your passion for the environment into a profession with a service-learning program that restores our local ecosystems and builds your future. As an ECC member, you won't just be earning an AmeriCorps living allowance; you’ll be gaining hands-on experience in the front-line fight for coastal resilience. Our graduates consistently describe this as a life-changing journey where you will build confidence, develop lifelong professional relationships, and emerge as a part of the next generation of conservation leaders.

All members receive:

Hands-On Field Experience

A Living Stipend and AmeriCorps Education Award

In-Demand Training and Certifications

We Are Currently Recruiting For Two Specialized Roles:

Restoration Crew Member

Focus: Large-scale habitat restoration and nature-based solutions across the Lowcountry.
Activities: Restoration Crew Members will restore wildlife habitat and ecosystems; construct rain gardens; build urban gardens; plant native species; perform erosion control and water quality monitoring; construct and repair trails, bridges, and boardwalks; and perform oyster reef and salt marsh restoration.

Community Restoration Member

Focus: Hyper-local coastal resilience and community-led environmental stewardship.
Activities: Community Restoration Members will engage in local habitat restoration activities such as restoring wetland buffers; planting native plants and trees, constructing and maintaining rain gardens; and supporting community trainings.

Hear From Our Alumni

Click the play button to hear a former member share how their time with the Environmental Conservation Corps fueled their passion for sustainability. Gain a first-hand perspective on the hands-on projects and professional certifications that define the program. Discover how your service with The Sustainability Institute can create a lasting impact on the environment and your career.

2026 Open Positions

Restoration Crew Member - Summer Cohort

Restoration Crew Members engage in habitat restoration activities in public parks, forests, and waterways, including, but not limited to, activities such as restoring salt marshes and building oyster reefs; constructing rain gardens; planting native plants and trees; performing water quality testing and monitoring; and constructing and repairing trails, bridges, and boardwalks. Crew members also play a critical role in leading SI hosted community volunteer events and connecting local community members to meaningful, conservation service work in their own backyard.

Click here to view full position description.

North Charleston, SC

May 18th, 2026 – July 24th, 2026
Minimum Time (300 hours)

Apply Today

Community Restoration Member

Community Restoration Members in Bucksport/Conway, SC engage in habitat restoration activities which may include activities such as restoring coastal wetland buffers (including some oyster beds), planting native plants and trees, performing water quality testing and monitoring, constructing historical nature trails, and constructing and maintaining rain gardens. Community Restoration Members will also engage in weatherization activities, which may include surveying households about their weatherization and repair needs, and supporting energy efficiency workshops throughout the community.

Click here to view full position description.

Bucksport/Conway, SC

February 2026 – November 2026
Three-quarter time (1200 hours)

Apply Today