Howard County Trail Technician - 2026

Howard County Government•Columbia, MD

1d•Onsite

About The Position

This position is for a Contingent Worker in the Natural Resources Conservation section of the Natural and Historic Resources Division (NHRD). The trail technician will collaborate with the Trail Program Manager on developing and executing a trail system assessment, performing repairs and improvements, and monitoring trail conditions according to accepted standards, all while ensuring the protection of the area's natural resources. The role involves routine maintenance, clearing corridors for new trails, constructing new trails, working with volunteers, and removing debris from trails. Additionally, the position is responsible for equipment maintenance and ensuring adherence to safety standards. The work schedule is flexible, weekday-based, totaling 40 hours per week, with occasional weekend and evening work required. This is a contingent (non-permanent, no benefits) position.

Requirements

Ability to read, understand, and follow complex written and/or oral instructions.
Ability to work independently or as a member of a team.
Effective communication skills.
Ability to make safe and responsible decisions.
Operate motorized equipment such as a Canycom, UTV, and hauling a 16-ft trailer.
Operate a motor vehicle safely.
Capable of using a two-way radio and/or cellular phone.
Operate and maintain a variety of hand tools.
Operate power tools such as drills, chainsaws, brush cutters, string trimmers, and pole saws.
Must be able to lift 50 pounds.
Ability to perform heavy labor for prolonged periods of time.
Ability to work outdoors under varying conditions of weather.
Must possess a valid Maryland Class C driver’s license.
Criminal background check required.
Certified copy of driving record required.
Pre-employment physical required.
High School Diploma or GED.
Enrollment in an undergraduate curriculum.
Experience in Microsoft Office products, including Word and Excel.
Experience utilizing hand and power tools.
Experience towing trailers.

Nice To Haves

Background in natural resources.
Two years’ experience with maintenance and installation of trail structures.
Two years’ experience leading groups of volunteers.
Ability to use powered equipment such as chainsaws, Canycoms, and skid steers.
Experience with GPS and mapping software such as MapInfo.
First Aid/ CPR certified (will obtain once employed).

Responsibilities

Performs trail system inspections, maintenance, construction of trails, and repairs.
Maintains and updates wayfinding signs and kiosks in parks to set standards.
Clears and maintains trail corridors to meet specifications and reports safety concerns for future maintenance.
Works in a group setting to complete larger tasks such as bridge or tread surfacing projects.
Fixes or installs erosion control devices such as waterbars, drains, check dams, and ditches.
Assists the Trail Program Manager with the coordination and support of projects for volunteers, interns, students, and scout groups.
Leads monthly volunteer workdays to construct new trail and trains volunteers on correct trail building techniques.
Assists with volunteer training programs, recognition events, and administrative support.
Leads various other volunteer groups interested in trail maintenance, such as Scout groups and corporate groups.
Manages members in the Adopt-a-Park program and serves as the point of contact, assisting volunteers with their needs.
Assists with implementing invasive species control efforts, including cutting and pulling invasives along trail corridors.
Assists the Trail Program Manager with other assigned duties.