Machine Operator – Mountain Bike Trails

Position Description: The experienced machine operator must operate heavy equipment outdoors daily, including mini-excavators, skidsteers, ATVs, dirt bikes, and other machinery as needed. The machine operator will both grub and build the trail and may be required to perform hand-built duties such as clearing trees and finishing the trail behind the machine. Extensive previous experience operating heavy machinery is required in this role; this is not an entry-level position. Only candidates with 4+ years of experience will be considered. Must ride mountain bikes. This position involves frequent travel, irregular hours, and a varying weekly schedule, with possible time off between projects. 

Schedule: This is a full-time, seasonal commitment, typically with winter months off. Our team aims to work a Monday-Friday schedule with weekends off, though hours and schedules vary weekly, with the opportunity to work between 40 and 50 hours per week and to travel for extended periods. The majority of the season is spent on field projects. 

Compensation

• Base pay range starting at $35/hour DOE
• Shared housing is provided during active projects.
• Travel and accommodations are provided.
• A season completion bonus of 5-10% is paid in December if all project goals are met.
• 401(k) offered after 1 year of employment with a match.
• Outdoor professional discounts are available for gear purchases.
• $300 annual gear stipend

Major Functions & Responsibilities:

• Operating and maintaining a mini-excavator for the majority of a workday
• Operating other heavy equipment as needed
• Driving/riding an ATV or dirt bike safely on the project site
• Managing tools and equipment on the project site
• Running a chainsaw, plate compactor
• Supporting ground crew to rake and compact as needed
• Supporting carpentry work on wood structures
• Think and collaborate with team members to solve trail design problems

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Other Requirements:

• Must be experienced in riding mountain bikes.
• Must be capable of performing physically demanding outdoor work, including lifting 50 lbs, hiking steep terrain, and working in varying weather conditions.
• Willingness to learn Dirt Tek-specific techniques and procedures in trail building
• Ability to follow mountain bike-specific trail design flag lines and ensure fun and flow in all built trails
• Strong work ethic, flexibility, positive attitude, and professionalism at every turn.
• Experience towing trailers and maneuvering equipment is preferred.
• Valid driver’s license required; clean driving record preferred.
• A genuine desire to travel, work on the road, and be outside all day.
• Willingness and respectfulness in community living and cohabitating with co-workers

Working Conditions & Physical Demands Trail building in the backcountry requires stamina and the ability to negotiate rough, uneven, and often steep terrain while carrying tools, equipment, and a heavy daypack. Trail work frequently occurs in all weather and elements. All tools are provided, but each team member must provide proper gear.