Trails Technician

The Great Basin Institute (GBI) and Tahoe Area Mountain Biking Association (TAMBA) seek a Trail Operations Technician for a 22-week project in the Lake Tahoe Basin, focusing on trail construction and maintenance. Ideal candidates will have a background in Trail Building, Recreation, Environmental Studies or similar fields. This role offers a unique opportunity for individuals eager to advance their careers in trail building and recreation, combining hands-on experience with environmental conservation and community engagement in a stunning natural setting. It’s a perfect chance to contribute to sustainable recreation in one of the West’s most beautiful landscapes.

Description: 

This role supports the Trail Operations efforts of TAMBA, a committed non-profit focused on the sustainable management of multi-use trails and advocating for mountain biking access through education and responsible trail use. The Trails Technician will develop skills and proficiencies related to trail development, maintenance, and construction under the direction of TAMBA’s Trail Operations team and alongside a dedicated trail crew. While not a TAMBA employee, the Trails Technician is an integral part of projects that shape the future of Tahoe’s trail network.

 

Project work will vary based on interests and expertise but will mainly support TAMBA’s 2025 trail projects. Responsibilities include building and maintaining trails, working alongside and supporting volunteer trail crews, and participating in public work days and TAMBA events. TAMBA provides the necessary training, supervision, tools, and safety gear to successfully contribute to the preservation and enhancement of Tahoe’s trails.

Qualifications:

Relevant experience in trail maintenance, outdoor recreation, outdoor education, GIS, conservation, and trail construction. Ideal applicants are resourceful, adaptable, and capable of working effectively with diverse volunteers in various outdoor settings (backcountry and wilderness). Resumes and cover letters should highlight specific project experiences in detail.

Required:

• Technicians must be US citizens or possess a green card
• Ability to drive a TAMBA vehicle, requiring a technician to be 21+
• Must have a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record
• Undergo a federal criminal background check is required
• Effective communication skills with people of diverse ages and backgrounds
• Must be able to communicate clearly and consistently with TAMBA staff
• Experience with trail construction, design and rehabilitation with GBI, a Conservation Corps, or other trail building organization
• A high fitness level and an interest in camping overnight for backcountry work trips
• Ability to work alone/in a small group in remote settings
• Ability to work in large teams in remote settings (up to 15)
• Experience and/or ability to learn use of GPS unit
• Willing to work outdoors and be capable of lifting 40 lbs
• Able to take initiative, work independently, and participate in collaborative efforts
• Applicants are expected to be highly motivated to pursue a career in natural resource and trail management and be willing and able to perform assigned duties with little direct supervision

Preferred:

• First Aid/CPR or Wilderness First Aid certified
• USFS Chainsaw certified
• Experience with Griphoist winches and rigging for trail building
• Experience with stone work for trail building
• Knowledge and understanding of Leave No Trace principles
• Knowledge and ability to utilize GPS equipment in the field
• Previous employment with Conservation Corps, Federal Agency, or other trail building organization

Benefits (subject to change):   

The salary ranges from $21.00 to $25.00 per hour, dependent on experience (DOE). Benefits include Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance at no cost, effective from the first of the month after employment begins. Paid Leave accrues at 4 hours for every 80 hours worked, starting from the first day of employment.

TO APPLY

Please submit an up-to-date resume, a one-page cover letter that details your interest in the position, and any qualifications not fully outlined in your resume, and contact information for three professional references to the unique application link.

Qualified applicants will be contacted to schedule an interview. For questions regarding this position, please contact Libby Wilson lwilson@gbinstitute.org or Kristine Koran kristine@tamba.org.

As an employee of GBI’s Nevada Conservation Corps Program (NCC) program, the Employee is expected to satisfactorily complete the following tasks:

• Adherence to the rules and regulations specified in the GBI Personnel Handbook;
• Adhere to daily/weekly work schedules that are subject to change in response to project needs;
• Participation in GBI meetings and workshops and other GBI or agency training opportunities;
• Other duties as assigned by GBI and agency staff
• Other Relevant Job information (if applicable)

We conform to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit Retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or otherwise oppose discrimination.

Nevada Conservation Corps, a Program of The Great Basin Institute: 

Established in 1999 as a federally-funded AmeriCorps program, NCC is a vital component of the Great Basin Institute’s efforts in conservation. This 21st-century service corps harnesses the enthusiasm and dedication of youth and volunteers for resource management, focusing on land restoration and conservation internships. NCC offers extensive professional development opportunities for those seeking careers in conservation and land management. Celebrating diversity, the NCC assembles members and staff from varied backgrounds to effectively address the needs of Nevada’s public lands and communities. It provides a platform for students and emerging professionals to make impactful contributions to the preservation of Nevada’s natural heritage, while also gaining invaluable experience in the field of natural resource management.

The Great Basin Institute: 

Founded in 1998 at the University of Nevada, the Great Basin Institute is a leading interdisciplinary field studies organization, fostering environmental research, education, and service throughout the West. GBI specializes in applied research to support science-based management of public lands and is fervently committed to the promotion of scientific understanding through its field studies, conservation efforts, and public outreach. GBI is home to numerous influential programs, including the Nevada Conservation Corps, International Conservation Volunteer Exchange, Research Associate Program, Cultural Resource Program, Basin & Range Forestry, NEPA Services, Ecological Monitoring Program, and oversees visitor centers at Taylor Creek, Galena Creek, and the Tallac Historic Site, thereby expanding its reach and impact in safeguarding the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

Disclaimer: Although the Company has attempted to accurately and thoroughly describe this position, the Company reserves the right to change the same, including to change, add to or subtract from the duties outlined, within the sole discretion of the Company, at any time, with or without advance notice.