Forest Corps Crew Lead

Position Summary:

The Forest Corps Crew Lead will lead a team of four to address projects across the Bridger-Teton National Forest. This position will encompass substantial field work including, but not limited to, wilderness/backcountry trail maintenance and clearing, front country developed and dispersed recreation infrastructure maintenance, and habitat restoration work. The Forest Corps crew will interface directly with Bridger-Teton National Forest staff on a project-by-project basis to coordinate project work and provide regular reporting to BTNF staff and participating partners. 

Reports to: Forest Corps Program Manager 

Effective Start Date: Mid-May 2026 

Employment Classification: Full time, hourly 

Rate of Pay: $22/hr, less applicable taxes and deductions 

Working Hours: Full time, hourly 40 hours/week 

Benefits: 

• Health insurance offered; employer covers most of the premium.
• Housing provided in USFS bunkhouse (if needed).
• 4 hours of PTO accrued every 2 week pay period, paid Federal holidays.
• Per diem for overnight work-related activities.

Responsibilities 

Leadership

• Coordinate logistics with the Program Manager and USFS Project Partners regarding the hitch plan, required tools, necessary gear, transportation arrangements, and safety plan.
• Maintain crew well-being and safety, including during inclement weather, and conduct regular check-ins.
• Address and resolve conflicts and crew behavior, enforcing standards as necessary.
• Ensure active compliance from all crew members with safety procedures, including but not limited to the consistent use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), conducting safety meetings, and reporting any safety concerns to the Program Manager.
• Represent the organization positively while engaging with forest visitors including sharing information about trail conditions, safety, and public land regulations.

Project Work 

• Partner with the 6 Forest Service Districts across the Bridger-Teton National Forest to assist in high priority projects.
• Lead a crew of 4 while performing trail maintenance including but not limited to signage work, tread repair, log outs, drainage improvements, and trail corridor clearing using hand tools and chainsaws/crosscut saws.

Data collection/monitoring/reporting

• Collect data and photos to prepare hitch-specific reports on key metrics (i.e. # trees logged, miles of trail cleared, etc.).
• Data collection includes crew anecdotes, storytelling, and documentation necessary for grant reporting and public education.
• Conduct crew performance reviews at mid-season and end-of-season.

Requirements

• Minimum of 1 season leading a trail crew OR 2 seasons of trail work in front country and backcountry settings.
• Minimum B bucker for crosscut and chainsaw, will provide re-certifications if needed.
• WFR or WFA, will provide if needed.
• Valid drivers license.
• Physical requirements: the ability to work in remote, backcountry settings for up to 8 days at a time; hike long distances while carrying up to 50lbs of tools, gear, and personal supplies for front country and backcountry hitches.