Seasonal Trail Crew

Position Description
BNRC’s Stewardship Department is seeking applicants to join its seasonal Trail Crew for the 2024 season. This is a full-time, seasonal position involving the construction of new hiking trails and the maintenance of BNRC’s trail network. BNRC is seeking applicants for two terms: a core season from May 28th through August 16th, and an extended season from May 6th through November 8th. Some start and end date flexibility is possible.  

Specific responsibilities include: 

• Constructing and repairing hiking trails
• Clearing trail corridors of brush and fallen trees
• Mowing and weed whacking field trails and trailheads
• Installing trail and trailhead infrastructure including benches, kiosks, and signs
• Assessing trail maintenance needs and making repairs
• Conducting annual monitoring visits on BNRC reserves
• Safely and efficiently using and maintaining a variety of hand tools, power tools, and power equipment
• Interacting with the public while on trail
• Other land stewardship tasks as needed

This is an opportunity to hike and work in some of the most beautiful areas of the Berkshires and engage in high quality trail projects across BNRC’s 60-mile trail system. This position is hands-on, and projects can be physically demanding. 

It is important that our Trail Crew members show a commitment to quality work, a positive attitude, and professional demeanor. We seek candidates who want to work outdoors and are interested in learning about trail building and management practices, as well as conservation stewardship.  This work is often collaborative, but crew members should expect to work independently on occasion.  

Qualifications
The successful candidate may not fulfill every aspect of a job description. If you have some, and/or demonstrably related experience, and believe that you can bring talent and passion to this role, please feel encouraged to apply. 

• Candidate will have a willingness to learn, a strong work ethic, and an open mind. 
• Training on specific trail construction tools, techniques, and best practices are provided by BNRC; the applicant will be an active participant in training and seek to develop skills throughout the season.
• Willing to follow basic dress code requirements (long pants, work/hiking boots)
• Must have reliable transportation to BNRC office (on a public bus route)
• Ability to work unsupervised
• Willingness to work outside in all weather conditions
• Ability to hike for 5 miles over rough terrain

Compensation: Trail crew members have a starting wage of $17.50/hour 

Benefits

Three Month Term 

• One paid personal day per month
• 2 paid holidays
• Mileage reimbursement
• $100 reimbursable allowance for personal work gear (backpack, work boots, rain jacket, etc.)

Six Month Term 

• 40 hrs paid sick time and up to 60 hrs of vacation time
• 4 paid holidays
• Mileage reimbursement
• 401(k) and employer match after first six months (applicable to returning crew members)
• Option to enroll in group medical and dental coverage
• $150 reimbursable allowance for personal work gear (backpack, work boots, rain jacket, etc.)

Start Date: The 6-month season starts on May 6th, and the core season starts on May 28th.  We are seeking applications currently and resumes will be reviewed on a rolling basis until openings are filled.