Ridgerunner Coordinator

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB • North Canaan, CT

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Ridgerunner Field Coordinator is the senior seasonal position responsible for the training, supervising, and managing the Ridgerunner program, consisting of the 2 full-time Ridgerunners based out of the AMC’s Northwest Cabin. The position is responsible for coordinating with partners to plan and assist with trail or campsite projects, reporting data and distribution, as well as promoting education and support with the public. AMC Ridgerunners travel the Appalachian Trail in Connecticut and the Southern Massachusetts acting as a vital part of the management for the trail in these states. Ridgerunners live on the trail throughout summer hiking up to 15 miles per day and camping at established areas along the way. Ridgerunners contact over 5,000 trail users annually providing information to the public about area regulations, backpacking techniques, Leave No Trace principals, trail conditions, history and more. Ridgerunners also gather and document important information such as maintenance concerns and visitor use patterns. They are the eyes, ears and public face of the AMC on the AT. The Ridgerunner Coordinator is responsible for providing leadership to the Ridgerunner team in all aspects, as well as reporting information gathered by the Ridgerunners to the appropriate AT partners. The Ridgerunner Coordinator works a 40 hour work week, and weekend work occurs regularly. The position is a seasonal, non-exempt, hourly position reporting to AMC Southern New England Trails Supervisor.

Requirements

• Extensive solo backpacking experience, required.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work unsupervised, to take initiative and to work as part of a team.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation, required.
• Clear criminal background check (performed by AMC Human Resources Dept.)

Nice To Haves

• Outdoor leadership experience, preferred.
• Strong interest or knowledge of backcountry management, desirable.
• Knowledge of the Appalachian Trail, helpful.
• Proficiency with PC based programs; Microsoft Word, Excel, Google and Outlook, preferred.

Responsibilities

• Train, supervise and lead Ridgerunner staff in all aspects of the position, including visitor interaction, Leave No Trace principles, trail maintenance, reporting, and trail policies.
• Provide support and leadership to Ridgerunners through frequent field visits, trail work parties, and weekly staff meetings.
• Create and manage Ridgerunner field schedule, coordinating logistics and sharing itineraries to partners.
• Maintain and share database of visitor encounters, trail maintenance issues and contacts gathered through Ridgerunner reports, ultimately compiling an end of season Ridgerunner report.
• Foster professional relationships with local officials and AMC volunteers and trail users.
• Engage local partners on projects and support.

Benefits

• Salary range: $18/hr
• Room & Board: Dorm-style room for $75/week – meals included, too!
• Insurance: Available with positions that are 6 months or longer and when working greater than 30 hours per week
• Retirement: Voluntary 403(b) Contribution
• Paid Time Off: earn up to 10 days of paid earned time depending on length of service
• 30% discount on AMC Merchandise
• Free Annual AMC Membership
• 4 Free nights at AMC locations
• Prodeals discounts on equipment & gear and more!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed