Trail Maintenance Technician

The Trail Maintenance Technician plays a crucial role in the upkeep and enhancement of the Palmetto Trail, a premier hiking and biking destination that stretches through South Carolina. This position is responsible for maintaining trail conditions, ensuring user safety, and preserving the natural environment of the trail. The technician will perform a variety of hands-on tasks, including trail repair, vegetation management, and installation of trail signage. They will also monitor the trail conditions and report any major issues to supervisors.

Key Responsibilities:

• Trail Repair & Maintenance:
  o Perform routine maintenance tasks such as repairing damaged sections, addressing erosion, clearing debris, and improving drainage.
  o Maintain trail surfaces by removing obstacles such as fallen trees, rocks, and overgrown vegetation.
  o Construct, repair, and install trail structures like footbridges, steps, and retaining walls.
• Signage & Wayfinding:
  o Install and maintain trail signs, markers, and informational kiosks.
  o Ensure that all wayfinding signage is clear, visible, and accurate.
• Safety & Hazard Management:
  o Identify and address hazards such as hazardous trees, trail washouts, or damaged structures.
  o Monitor trail use and conditions, reporting safety concerns to the supervisor.
• Vegetation Management:
  o Clear overgrowth encroaching on the trail path using hand tools or powered equipment (e.g., chainsaws, hedge trimmers).
  o Perform invasive species removal to protect native plants and ecosystems.
• Inspection & Reporting:
  o Conduct regular trail inspections to assess the condition and identify areas in need of attention.
  o Keep detailed records of maintenance activities, trail conditions, and materials used.
  o Report any significant trail damage, illegal activities, or misuse to supervisors.
• Public Interaction:
  o Occasionally interact with trail users to answer questions, provide directions, or share information about trail conditions.
  o Promote stewardship and responsible trail use to the public.

Qualifications:

• Education & Experience:
  o High school diploma or equivalent (preferred).
  o Must possess a valid driver’s license
  o Previous experience in trail maintenance, landscaping, construction, or related field is highly desirable.
  o Knowledge of sustainable trail building techniques is a plus.
• Skills:
  o Ability to safely use hand and power tools (e.g., chainsaws, shovels, rakes, hammers).
  o Strong carpentry skills.
  o Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.
  o Physical stamina to work in outdoor conditions and handle physically demanding tasks.
  o Basic knowledge of trail design, erosion control, and environmental conservation is preferred.
  o Must successfully complete Wilderness First Aid and USFS Chainsaw Training
• Physical Requirements:
  o Must be able to hike long distances, lift heavy materials (up to 50 lbs), and work
  in various weather conditions.
  o Ability to safely operate tools and equipment used in trail maintenance.
  o Comfortable working in remote areas and rugged terrain.

Working Conditions:

• Primarily outdoor work, often in remote and wilderness areas.
• Work may involve exposure to harsh weather conditions, insects, wildlife, and challenging landscapes.
• Weekend and holiday work may be required depending on trail needs.
• Some travel may be required to assist in larger projects on the Palmetto Trail.