Apply now for paid summer jobs planting trees to cool neighborhoods, reduce flooding, and improve air quality.

The Community Forestry Corps (CFC) is hiring for paid summer jobs planting and caring for trees across Boulder County. Teens ages 14–17 can apply for Corps Member roles, while those 18 and older are eligible for leadership positions.

The CFC is a partnership between the PLAY Boulder Foundation, the City of Boulder, Boulder County, and supported by the cities of Lafayette, and Louisville. Each summer, youth crews work alongside forestry and environmental professionals to plant and care for trees in parks, schools, and neighborhoods—especially communities facing higher temperatures, poor air quality, and increased flood risks.

As these trees grow, they help keep neighborhoods cooler, improve air quality, and reduce flooding—making communities healthier and more resilient to rising temperatures and extreme weather.

Crews are supervised by trained leaders who ensure a safe, structured, and supportive environment. Participants earn competitive wages while learning teamwork, leadership, and practical skills by planting trees and solving environmental problems in their community.

What CFC Members Do

  • Plant and care for trees in parks, schools, and neighborhoods.
  • Work with forestry, conservation, and public health professionals.
  • Gain hands-on experience solving real environmental challenges.
  • Help expand tree cover in areas facing extreme heat and flooding.
  • Teach others about the benefits of trees for safer, healthier communities.

“This work is hands-on, engaging, and immediately rewarding,” said Angie Jeffords, executive director of the PLAY Boulder Foundation. “Crews get to be outdoors, work as a team, and take on real responsibilities, all while leaving a lasting impact on local neighborhoods. It’s an experience that builds confidence, teaches valuable skills, and deepens a connection to the community—long after summer ends.”

Available Positions, Pay, and Application Deadlines

  • Corps Members (ages 14–17): $16–$16.40/hour, 30 hours/week. Applications due April 4.
  • Assistant Team Leaders (18+): $20.20–$20.70/hour, full-time. Applications due May 23.
  • Team Leaders (21+): $22.44–$23/hour, full-time. Applications due May 23.

Work and Training Schedule

  • Corps Members: June 16–Aug. 6
  • Leaders: June 16–Aug. 8
  • Training for leadership roles begins June 2.

“Decades from now, these trees will still be standing—shading streets, cooling neighborhoods, and honoring the young people whose hard work made their community stronger,” said Boulder County Commissioner Ashley Stolzmann. “This isn’t just summer work. It’s work that lasts.”

“The Community Forestry Corps is a powerful example of how young people can drive meaningful change in their communities,” said Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde, City of Boulder City Manager. “By planting and caring for trees in neighborhoods that need them most, participants are gaining valuable skills and shaping a healthier, more resilient future. We’re proud to support this initiative and encourage youth to take part in this impactful work.”

The CFC builds on the success of its 2024 pilot, continuing a proud tradition inspired by youth programs like the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930s and the National Civilian Community Corps of the 1990s.

Learn more and apply at PLAY Boulder.

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