Seasonal Field Trail Builder

Seasonal Field Trail Builder
The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference is seeking an experienced trail builder to help plan and execute trail projects as well as grow skill capacity within the organization. This position will lend their technical expertise to oversee and support AmeriCorps crews carrying out sustainable trailbuilding projects, contribute to other trail construction and planning projects, and serve as a trailbuilding resource for other staff, volunteers, and partners. The position reports to the Senior Trail Builder and works closely with other Trail Conference staff and volunteers.

The Trail Conference is a recognized authority on trails whose expertise is sought after throughout the region for consultation and formal trail plans. The Trail Conference Conservation Corps recruits, trains, and deploys AmeriCorps members to work alongside volunteers in the construction and maintenance of award-winning trails throughout Northern New Jersey and New York’s Hudson Valley. The right candidate is an accomplished trail builder who can function as a manager to field crews and projects while reserving a portion of their time for trail planning and administrative work, among other demands. They must be committed to building quality sustainable trails as well as crews via training, mentoring, and ongoing support.

The Trail Conference is committed to building a culturally diverse organization through its employees and community to ensure that the joys of nature belong to everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, age, disability, national origin, or religion.

Responsibilities:

Trail Crew and Project Management (approximately 2/3 of time)

• Supervise and manage multiple Conservation Corps trail crews May through October to provide productive and rewarding experiences for members and foster good group dynamics. Assist in member recruitment, selection, and training.
• Plan crew projects in collaboration with the Senior Trail Builder, agency partners, volunteers and staff. Assist in tool and supply inventory and procurement for projects.
• Directly oversee project implementation by Corps crews to build and repair natural-surface trails using sustainable techniques including benchcut construction, earthen drains, and dry stone structures. Work alongside them directly as needed and communicate instructions and priorities to Crew Leaders when absent.
• Train and assist crews in leading episodic volunteer workdays and hosting on-site workshops on various topics to increase our organization’s volunteer trail building capacity.
• Track projects along with Crew Leader via photo documentation and written reports and serve as primary liaison with project partners.

Other Tasks (approximately 1/3 of time)

• Host trail skills workshops for volunteers on a range of topics.
• Conduct consultations with partners, volunteers and staff seeking technical expertise, including site visits and other dialogue both face to face and via email.
• Assist the Senior Trail Builder with other program management tasks as needed.
• Participate in Trail Conference meetings and functions as needed.

Qualifications

• Minimum two field seasons of trail experience with comprehensive knowledge and understanding of trail condition assessment, construction, maintenance, and safety best practices. Experience with trail layout and design preferred.
• Significant experience training, leading and managing trail crews.
• Experience working with a wide variety of volunteers, field staff, and stakeholders.
• Skills in safe use and maintenance of a wide variety of hand and power tools, as well as other equipment. Must have experience with rigging and technical rockwork. Experience setting up and supervising highline operations preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining effective communications with the rest of the team.
• Strong hiker with ability to regularly carry 50 pounds in mountain terrain and work under physically demanding conditions, including cold and wet weather.
• Experience using Windows, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel or equivalents.
• Must have a valid driver’s license with an insurable driving record, and reliable personal transportation. Experience using and ability to tow small trailers preferred.
• Wilderness First Aid (or higher) and CPR training (can be provided for the right candidate).

Work Environment and Schedule
This is a full-time, seasonal position beginning as soon as 2/10/2025 and continuing at least through 10/31/2025, with weekend work required seasonally. Based in Mahwah, NJ, work is overwhelmingly field-based, with limited office work at our headquarters and remotely, depending on program needs.

Compensation
The compensation rate for this position is $3,500/month, paid semi-monthly. The Trail Conference proudly provides a full range of benefits including employer subsidized health care, free membership, and sick leave.

Application
To apply, please submit the following items via email attachments (start all attachment file names with your last name) to [email protected], subject line: Seasonal Trail Builder: “Your Last Name”
All application materials will be kept confidential.

• A professional resume.
• A cover letter addressing your interest and qualifications.
• Contact information for three references.

This position is available until filled. Candidate interviews will begin in December and continue until an offer is made. ~No calls, please. Check www.nynjtc.org/job-openings to determine if the position is filled.

Employment Opportunities
The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference provides equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under federal, state and local law. We pledge to uphold equality in our hiring and employment practices and to create an environment where everyone, from any background, can do their best work.

About Us
For more information about the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, please visit https://www.nynjtc.org/about-us