Organizational Mission
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s mission is to protect, manage, and advocate for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.
We Are Looking For You
Are you an avid backpacker or camper who wants to get paid to hike in one of the most remote areas on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.)? Do you love taking in spectacular views? Do you love the idea of a seasonal position that would allow you to work with a team to help complete a detailed inventory of all A.T. views in Maine? Then this position is for you!
The Visual Resource Inventory process is used to identify scenic quality and importance for views within and extending beyond the Trail.
Field Technicians will work with a core team of agency staff, Appalachian Trail Conservancy staff, and trained volunteers to complete a detailed visual resource inventory of all A.T. viewpoints in Maine. This work will require hiking to designated viewpoints and collecting data using a National Park Service protocol. Fieldwork trips may require multi-day front-country camping. Field Technicians will also be responsible for uploading, organizing, and performing quality checks on data.
Who We Are
Established in 1925, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) leads the effort to protect, maintain and celebrate the A.T. We are part of a unique cooperative-management system, working with several local, state, and federal partners to ensure greater protections for the Trail. Our partners include the National Park Service, the U.S. Forest Service, dozens of state agencies, and 30 local Trail-maintaining clubs. The ATC’s mission is to protect, manage, and advocate for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. We believe everyone should have the opportunity for life-changing discovery on the A.T.
Field Technician Summary
Essential Duties and Responsibilities for Field Technicians
- Work in a close partnership team with the other Visual Resource Inventory Field Technicians, the Visual Resource Inventory Project Manager, and volunteers.
- Become proficient in fieldwork and data recording protocols.
- Perform fieldwork cataloging the A.T. views in Maine.
- Regularly use technology including a GPS, mirrorless camera with manual functions, compass, scanner, and computer.
- Assure the quality and organization of detailed monitoring data.
- Travel to and from work sites, camping at or near work sites as appropriate (some gear may be provided as needed).
- Organize, inventory, and maintain tools, supplies, and equipment.
- Assist with volunteer training and instruction.
- Collaborate with ATC staff, volunteer clubs, and partner organizations in project planning, development, and reporting.
- Due to weather conditions, techs work between 25 and 40 hours per week.
- Other duties as assigned.
What Potential Field Technicians Need to Bring:
- Demonstrated exceptional attention to detail and ability to follow protocols and workflows.
- Ability to work as a part of a team, with rotating responsibilities.
- Possess excellent communication or instructional skills.
- Ability to work without direct supervision while encouraging cooperation among a crew.
- Training or education and/or experience in any of the following: conservation, resource management, recreation, environment.
- Education and/or experience managing data.
- Intermediate level or above hiking experience.
- Willingness to work in a backcountry setting under challenging weather conditions.
- Valid driver’s license with no restrictions.
What We Would Love To See:
- Understanding and practice of Leave No Trace Principles desired.
- Familiarity and experience using GPS technology.
- Familiarity and experience using manual camera desired.
Physical Demands Of The Position:
- Traversing up to 15 miles per day in rugged terrain, variable weather, and remote locations.
- Transporting equipment or gear weighing up to 25 pounds.
- Long days in the field may be required.
Your Work Environment:
- Rigorous outdoor work and overnight camping along the A.T. with exposure to ticks and pests.
- Office environment with a moderate level of noise due to activity on the phone, computer, and printer.
- Regular travel to trail access points in Maine.
- The position is mostly field based with access to office space in Maine.
- Field locations are primarily in Maine.
Key Details About The Field Technician Position:
- Late May to late August (about 12 weeks / 3 months of employment). A great summer job!
- $18 per hour guaranteed.
- 5-day, 40-hour workweek (Monday through Friday).
- Use of a personal vehicle is reimbursed at the federal mileage rate.
- A monthly $500 housing stipend is available.
- COVID-19 vaccination will be required for this position as a condition of employment. Medical and religious exemptions may apply.
Crew Leader Position Summary
The Crew Leader functions as a member of the field team, with all the duties and responsibilities of the Field Technicians, as well as the additional roles and responsibilities listed below.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities for the Crew Leader
All duties and responsibilities listed for Field Technicians above are also part of this position, as well as:
- Acting as a resource for Field Technicians, helping meet their needs and enabling them to perform high-quality, fulfilling work.
- Taking responsibility for ensuring all equipment is in good working order before heading out to the field.
- Being the point person for volunteers and emergency contact when PM is off-site.
- Keeping frequent contact with the Program Manager when the PM is off-site.
- Other duties as assigned.
What the Potential Crew Leader Needs to Bring:
All qualifications and skills listed for the Field Technician above are required for this role, as well as:
- Current CPR and first aid or Wilderness First Aid certification.
- Exceptional communication skills.
- Experience or ability to work solo with remote supervision.
Physical Demands Of The Position:
- Traversing up to 15 miles per day in rugged terrain, variable weather, and remote locations.
- Transporting equipment or gear weighing up to 25 pounds.
- Regular travel to Trail access points in Maine.
- Long days in the field may be required.
Key Details About the Crew Leader Position:
- Late May to late August with the possibility of a 4-week extension (12-16 weeks / 3-3.5 months of employment).
- $21 per hour guaranteed.
- 5-day, 40-hour workweek (Monday through Friday).
- Use of a personal vehicle is reimbursed at the federal mileage rate.
- Monthly $500 housing stipend available.
- COVID-19 vaccination will be required for this position as a condition of employment. Medical and religious exemptions may apply.
To Apply
To apply for one (or both) of these positions, please submit an application packet via our ADP application portal. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. We will begin requesting interviews after March 6, 2023.
We strongly encourage you to upload relevant certifications, such as first aid, CPR, and/or Sawyer Certifications, as part of your application, in addition to an updated resume and answers to the specific application questions. We may request you to provide up to three references throughout the recruitment process.
ATC Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) encourages collaboration, flexibility, and fairness with all employees and volunteers to enable participation and contributions to their fullest potential.
We are committed to being a diverse and inclusive organization and recognize that diversity contributes to an effective and successful organizational culture and mission.
The ATC prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and/or expression), national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, political affiliation, union membership, or any other status protected by the laws and regulations in the locations where we operate.
Click here to view the Appalachian Trail Conservancy Identity Statement