Field Project Specialist (two positions available)

The Field Project Specialist works with trail crews to oversee projects and teach technical trail working in various locations along the Pacific Crest Trail. Trail crews vary with a mix of corps crews, young adults, and adult volunteers working on projects in both front country and backcountry settings. Projects vary in length from 1-10 days.

This full-time, seasonal position will be participating in a variety of projects, including but not limited to, wildfire repair, corridor clearing & logout, technical rock work & dry masonry, tread repair, and new trail construction. Both positions begin in mid-February in Southern California. One will transition to northern California in early July and continue to work there until the second week of September. The other will transition to the north Cascades region in Washington in early June and continue working there until the end of September. A personal vehicle is required; see mileage reimbursement details below. 

In this position, you will have the opportunity to: 

• Provide technical guidance, training, and support to crew leaders, crew members, and volunteers while on the project and in camp
• Provide on-site leadership managing trail project logistics and technical oversight, in the backcountry or front country, may include coordination of supply loads for transport by animal packers
• Foster a safe and inclusive environment for all participants and provide a welcoming and supportive setting.
• Supervise and manage projects, train and guide corps crews and volunteer crews in trail maintenance, rehabilitation, and construction skills
• Ensure corps crew and volunteer work meets PCTA and agency standards while adhering to all safety and environmental protocols
• Facilitate project and training planning and related communications with land managers, volunteer leaders, and other partner organizations
• Coordinate all project-related logistical and paperwork requirements
• Facilitate pre-and-post project volunteer communications
• Develop communications about project accomplishments
• Manage accurate data, records, and reports
• Oversee tool maintenance
• Provide administrative support
• Perform related duties as required to support and strengthen the mission and purpose of PCTA

See full job description on our website at: https://www.pcta.org/about-us/jobs/ 

What Makes You a Great Fit for this Position? 

• Minimum of two years of relevant experience
• Outdoor leadership in training, managing, and leading trail crews
• Embraces equity, diversity, and inclusion values
• Leave No Trace and backcountry living skills
• Excellent trail maintenance, rehabilitation, construction, and rock work skills
• Ability to maintain a safe working environment in the field
• Experience communicating with, coordinating, teaching, and managing corps crews, crew leaders, and volunteers
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to effectively build relationships and interact with people from diverse cultural, socioeconomic, and ethnic backgrounds
• Ability to listen, give, and take feedback and learn
• Strong time management and detailed organizational skills with the ability to self-direct workflow to manage multiple projects at once and meet deadlines
• Team player with initiative, determination, and flexibility who thrives in a fast-paced work environment
• Proficiency using a computer, Microsoft Office and Outlook; comfortable learning new technology systems as needed
• Possess a valid driver’s license and be able to drive personal or rented vehicles
• Valid wilderness first aid, including CPR certification, or ability to complete certifications before the employee’s first managed project

Desirable Skills and Certifications: 

• Proficiency in technical trail construction skills such as rigging, stock packing, etc.
• Chain and crosscut saw certifications

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work in front and backcountry settings at high elevations and in inclement weather
• Ability to lift 25 pounds
• Ability to travel, including hiking and backpacking on and off trail for several days at a time
• Ability to perform manual trail work

Typical Working Conditions and Travel:
The Field Project Specialist works under the direct supervision of the Regional Representative 
in the project area. These positions work from satellite offices located within the region. Regular backcountry travel with substantial time overnight in the field is to be expected as well as weekends and some evenings. They are expected to communicate regularly on work projects. PCTA covers travel expenses, including one-way travel between duty stations when transitioning from one region to another. Housing is not provided. 

Salary and Benefits:
This is a full-time hourly seasonal staff position. Hourly pay is $22.50 per hour and Field Project Specialists will average 50 hours of work per week and are eligible for overtime pay. Housing is not provided. PCTA reimburses mileage at the IRS rate or rental a vehicle restricted to work-related travel may be provided as needed. A gear stipend of up to $250 is provided. Food costs are covered while in the field. Positions 6 months or longer in duration are eligible for the following benefits: paid holidays, vacation, and sick time, health, dental, vision, life, and long-term disability.

Eligibility Requirements: 
The new hire process includes conducting a criminal history record check after a conditional offer is made to the candidate. If there are convictions on the report, PCTA conducts an individualized assessment as to whether any convictions have a direct and adverse relationship with the specific job duties of the position. PCTA will consider the offense, how long it’s been since the applicant committed the offense and the nature of the job the applicant is applying for.