Alaska Trail Crew

ALASKA STATE PARKS VOLUNTEER PROGRAM AND VOLUNTEER INTERNSHIP POSITIONS

Note: The online application can be found here: https://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/vip/vipapplication.htm

TRAIL CREW (6 positions)

Park/Area: KACHEMAK BAY STATE PARK
The first state park adjoining the only wilderness park in Alaska, combines nearly 400,000 acres of rugged coastal mountains, high peaks, glaciers, river valleys, rain forest, large saltwater lagoons, long stretches of remote beaches, deep bays and fjords and clear mountain lakes. The park also has nearly 150 miles of coastline along two separate water bodies. Kachemak Bay and the Gulf of Alaska (Pacific Ocean). The park’s abundant wildlife includes moose, black bear, mountain goat, wolves, coyote, salmon, bald eagles, porpoises, whales and many species of sea and shorebirds. The nearly 90 miles of trail provide access to alpine areas, river valleys, lakes and glaciers throughout the park. Alpine areas provide nearly unlimited hiking without the need for trails. The park is only accessible by boat or airplane from Homer, Alaska. Crew is transported via Park’s boat.

Main Tasks: Maintain park trails, campsites, and trailheads. Trail maintenance includes chainsaw and brush cutter operation, erosion control, tread work, campsite inspection and maintenance, and trailhead maintenance. Crews will be working and camping in remote settings up to 8-10 days at a time. Other duties may include public contact and assistance, assist with foot and boat patrols, assist with construction and/or repair to any old or new facilities. Training will be provided in all special skill areas.

Special Projects: Individual crew members will be tasked with individual roles.  Individual crew members will have the opportunity to lead the crew for project work.  In your cover letter please state which role you would prefer. 

Social media expert, building specialist, public education and outreach specialist, and volunteer coordinator.

Required Skills: Must possess a strong work ethic; able to live and work together with others in a remote setting; be in good physical condition and able to lift and carry tools and packs up to 45 lbs. in weight; working knowledge of basic hand and power tools.

Desired Skills: Prior trail-crew experience and/or training. Training experience in backcountry travel, camping and survival. First-aid/CPR or higher level certification (current). Experience with basic carpentry and public relations.

Internship: Preference given to applicants seeking internship through college, working towards degree in park management, resource management, or program designed for careers in outdoor recreation such as Park Ranger or Technician.

Allowance/Housing: Subsistence payment of $500 per month. Most of the time will be spent out in the field living in tents and occasionally at the Halibut Cove Lagoon Ranger Station. Field equipment will be available for use during the work week. Shared bunk/living space will be provided in Homer on days off. Bring your own sheets, sleeping bag, towels, personal items, etc.

Transportation: Must provide transportation to Homer, Alaska. Arrangements may be made to pick you up in Anchorage around May 15-16. Volunteers will have group use of state vehicle while in Homer on restricted and limited basis for shopping and state business.

Time Commitment: Preference to applicants who can start approximately May 20th and work until August 15th. Some Volunteers may work until September 1 or later depending on weather.  Can accommodate college schedules.

Note: 1) completed State Parks volunteer application form (https://dnr.alaska.gov/parks/vip/vipapplication.htm)

2) Email – cover letter, resume, and 3 references to [email protected].

Fun: Those hired are expected to work hard and play, have fun and be safe. Fishing poles and bicycles are available for recreation.

Send Application to: Ranger Jason Okuly

Alaska State Parks
95 Sterling Highway
Homer, AK 99603

phone: (907) 435-7595
email: [email protected]