Trail Crew Leader

Closing Date: 3/01/2024

Compensation: $32 per hour

Location: Based in Anchorage, AK

Timeline: Approximately 4 months. May 6th to August 30th (with potential for extension)

Position Description

Alaska Trails is seeking a Trail Crew Leader who loves working with people and shares our commitment to trail stewardship. After training and preparation, the Trail Crew Leader will work  in the Glacier and Seward Ranger Districts of the Chugach National Forest, in Chugach State Park, and various other destinations in South central Alaska. The crew will consist of five employees total and will coordinate with project partners, land managers, and Alaska Trails management on the projects.

Alaska Trails is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt nonprofit organization incorporated in 2003. Alaska Trails’ mission is: Building trails for Alaska’s people, communities, and economy.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The main function of this position will be to direct the trail crew in performing and completing trail projects – including ordering supplies, training crew members, and ensuring completion of projects in a timely manner. Some project sites are remote, there fore logistics and problem – solving will also be a large part of the job.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Oversee crew members on project sites for the season
• Plan and prepare for the work including preparation of tools, gear, food, and other necessities
• Work closely with land managers and project partners for project planning,  preparation, and material needs
• Create and foster a culture of safety and inclusion
• Ensure the Job Hazard Analysis, Emergency Action Plan, and all weekly metrics  are documented and submitted
• Ensure all technical work is to standards, including tread construction, drainage  structures, and construction of steps, turnpike, and puncheon
• Bring skill and interest to the crew
• Calmly manage 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 and close calls affecting the safety, health, and well-being of crew in a timely manner

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Preferred job skills, experience ,and personal traits: 

• Demonstrated experience leading Trail Crews in the field and back country settings
• Experience and desire to work in a remote area of Alaska
• Demonstrated skills in trail maintenance and trail building
• Basic construction and wood working experience
• Organizational skills, attention to detail, and technology skills to provide program and administrative support
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Drive, and email communication
• Strong interpersonal skills to ensure a fun, safe and inclusive work experience
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills – ability to communicate across multiple channels to internal departments and external partners 
• Cultural competency experience and demonstrated ability to work with people of diverse races, ages, genders, abilities, and economic backgrounds
• Ability to work independently and contribute to a team effort
• Ability to remain calm and manage emergency situations
• Ability to work in an outdoor environment and follow minimum impact guidelines
• Demonstrated flexibility in a dynamic and fast – paced environment, feeling  comfortable with mid course corrections
• Current WFR and CPR certifications
• Current S212 or equivalent chain saw certification
• Valid driver’s license and ability to drive a truck with a trailer on highways and dirt roads
• Ability to work weekends and 10-hour days
• A strong commitment to Alaska Trails’ mission
• Ability to use mechanized equipment for trail construction if necessary

To Apply:

Email the following to office@alaska-trails.org :

1. Resume 

2. A brief cover letter describing your experience and qualifications

3. Three professional references

Reference the job title “Trail Crew Leader – 2024” in the subject line. The position is open until filled, but priority will be given to resumes received by January 31st, 2024.

Trail Crew Member

Closing Date: The positions are open  until filled, but priority will be given to resumes received by January 31st, 2024

Compensation: $24/hr

Location: Based in Anchorage, AK

Timeline: May 13 – August 30 – with possible extension

Position Description

Are you passionate about building and maintaining sustainable trails? Alaska Trails is seeking  applicants for members of two crews in the summer of 2024. Trail Crew members will play a  pivotal role in trail maintenance and construction projects through out Alaska.

Position Description:

Trail Crew Members are needed for trail construction and maintenance  projects in South central 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 on this crew, including week-long hitches. Crew members will be  provided a perdiem while working in the field on overnight hitches. Projects will be located in  Chugach State Park, the Seward and Glacier Ranger districts within the Chugach National Forest, and other areas in South central Alaska.

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 back country travel experience
• Previous experience working as a member of a team
• Current WFA or WFR certification and 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 or CPR
• Proper tool use and maintenance practices

TO APPLY:

Email the following to office@alaska-trails.org :

1. Resume

2. A brief cover letter describing your experience and qualifications

3. Three professional references

Reference the job title “Seasonal Trail Crew Member” in the subject line. The positions are open  until filled, but priority will be given to resumes received by January 31st, 2024.