Crest Runner – Two Positions

Seasonal Employment Opportunity – Crest Runners (Two positions available) 

Position Description:  

Protecting the PCT experience and natural resources along the trail is largely dependent upon having well-informed, safe, and responsible trail users, providing real-time conditions, and collecting high-quality visitor use information data. One of the most effective ways to do this is through in-person contacts on the trail.  

The Crest Runner serves as a key member of the PCT team, providing information and education to trail users while also collecting key visitor use data and information. The Crest Runner authentically engages with and supports trail users by providing information about the PCT and PCTA, local regulations, safe and responsible trail use and trail conditions.  They also compile, collect, and report on visitor use data.  

To accomplish this work, in Southern California the Crest Runners will spend most of their time hosting an information table at the Southern Terminus while also spending time hiking on the trail and interacting with trail users. In the Southern Sierra Nevada mountains, the Crest Runners will spend the majority of their time hiking and backpacking on the PCT between Kennedy Meadows and Mammoth Lakes, CA, sharing safe & responsible use information and collecting visitor use and permit data. The Crest Runner season is from mid-February through mid-August with a regional transition typically occurring in May. 

In this position, you will have the opportunity: 

• Welcome PCT users to the PCT’s Southern Terminus to provide trail information and encourage safe & responsible use of the trail through tactics such as
• Campsite selection, human waste disposal and dry camping considerations
• Provide information about the PCT including fire closures, snow levels, and local conditions
• Collect and report on visitor use data using standard protocols
• Conduct voluntary permit checks to collect information related to visitor use management and distribute PCT hang tags
• Work closely with PCTA staff, agency partners, and volunteers to understand visitor use management issues and develop strategies to reduce visitor use impact
• Effectively communicate visitor use management issues and strategies to local, national, and international users
• Day-hike and backpack along beautiful stretches of the PCT, often for multiple days at a time, interacting with and providing education to trail users

See full job description on our website at: https://www.pcta.org/about-us/jobs/  

What makes you a great fit for this position?  

• Minimum of one year of professional experience in a field that could include education, relationship building, interpretation, outdoor recreation, or other related fields
• Experience with backcountry travel, backpacking and, ideally, long-distance hiking
• Experience and ability to camp self-reliantly in the backcountry
• Experience providing education and interacting with the public
• Strong interpersonal skills, and ability to effectively communicate and interact with a wide range of people
• Ability to remain flexible and adapt to changing conditions in the field. A few specific considerations that may affect the duties of this position include environmental conditions such as snow and wildfires, among others.
• Ability to create a welcoming environment for all people
• Strong organizational skills and experience with data collection
• Ability to work as part of a small team
• Ability to work independently and be self-motivated

Physical Requirements: 

• Ability to day-hike and backpack up to 15 miles per day on the PCT and side trails, while carrying backpacking equipment and food for multiple days at a time
• Ability to lift and carry a 30-pound backpack while walking on trail
• Comfortable working in front and backcountry settings, at high elevations, and in inclement weather
• Ability to operate a motor vehicle for multiple hours at a time
• Ability to work at a computer for several hours at a time

Other Requirements: 

• Must have a reliable personal vehicle for travel to and from trailheads and other work locations, with potential for travel on rough roads.
• Have or can acquire own personal camping and backpacking equipment like a shelter, sleeping bag and pad, cooking/eating kit and stove, backpack, other necessary overnight gear as necessitated by conditions.

Typical Working Conditions, Duty Stations, and Travel: 

The Crest Runner works from a satellite location within the region under the direct supervision of PCTA’s Regional Manager with support from the local agency staff and PCTA staff. Regular backcountry travel with substantial time overnight in the field is to be expected as well as weekends, possible early mornings, and some evenings. The Crest Runner is expected to communicate regularly with their PCTA supervisor between scheduled field time and as needed. PCTA will reimburse for work travel expenses.  

Salary and Benefits: 

This is a full-time hourly seasonal staff position. Hourly pay is $22 and Crest Runners will work approximately 40 hours per week and are eligible for overtime pay. PCTA reimburses for mileage at the IRS rate. Housing is typically not provided; however, a car-camping tent will be offered for the season.  Administrative campsites provided by the USFS will be available for the Crest Runners to use during work and off time.  Gear stipend of up to $300 is provided. Benefits include paid holidays, vacation, and sick time, health, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability.