Trail Crew Member

Are you passionate about building and maintaining sustainable trails? Alaska Trails is seeking applicants for members of three crews in the summer of 2025. Trail Crew members will play a pivotal role in trail maintenance and construction projects throughout Alaska.

Seasonal Nonprofit

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Job Location

Anchorage

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Job Description

Trail Crew Member
Employment Dates: May 19 - August 28 – 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: $24/hr
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 on this crew, including occasional week-long hitches (depending on crew). Crew members will be provided a per diem 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 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 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 as three separate PDFs to [email protected] :
Resume
A brief cover letter describing your experience and qualifications
Three professional references

Reference the job title “Seasonal Trail Crew Member” in the subject line. The positions are open until April 25th, 2025, and candidates will be interviewed as application materials are received.

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