Trail Crew Member

Trail Crew Member

Employment Dates: May 18 – August 27 – with possible extension 

Work Schedule: 10-hour days, 4-days-on/3-days-off OR 8-days-on/6-days-off depending on project and crew

Wage: $22 – $26/hr DOE

Position Description: Trail Crew Members are needed for trail construction and maintenance projects in Southcentral Alaska. Duties include daily hiking in steep, rocky terrain, structure work, and using hand and power tools to maintain and construct sustainable trails. Road-based travel will be necessary, including overnight hitches (depending on crew). Crew members will be provided a food stipend while working in the field on overnight hitches. Projects will be located in Chugach State Park, the Chugach National Forest, the Mat-Su Borough, and other areas in Southcentral Alaska. Housing is not provided with this position. 

Requirements for crews: 

• Must be 18 years or older to apply
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs, travel on uneven terrain, and willing to work in remote settings
• Enthusiastic about hard work and spending time in the backcountry
• Capable of performing physically demanding work for 10 hours a day
• Willingness to work in inclement weather
• Ability to work closely with other team members and Crew Leaders

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Previous experience on a trail crew
• Previous experience with physical labor
• Previous backcountry travel experience
• Previous experience working as a member of a team
• Current WFA, WFR, or WEMT, and First Aid + CPR certification
• Current S212 or other equivalent chainsaw training
• Knowledge of, and willingness to exercise and promote Leave No Trace practices

Trail Crew Member Responsibilities:

• Assist the Crew Leader in planning and preparing for the work including preparation of tools, gear, food, and other necessities
• Work closely with the Crew Leader to ensure each project is completed in a safe, quality, and timely manner
• Ensure all trail work is to the standards set by the Crew Leader, including tread construction, drainage structures, and construction of steps, turnpike, and puncheon
• Calmly assist the Crew Leader in managing emergency situations following Alaska Trails’ emergency response protocols
• Positively represent Alaska Trails’ mission, programs, and membership in all interactions with volunteers, trail users, and others
• Report all incidents affecting the safety, health, and well-being of the crew in a timely manner (including “close calls”)
• Positively contribute to the crew on a daily basis

Training Opportunities: 

• Chainsaw use and maintenance
• WFA and CPR
• Proper tool use and maintenance practices