Seasonal Ridgerunner Great Smoky Mountains
About The Position
ATC Ridgerunners provide information about the A.T. and its intended primitive experience, location, regulations, and traditions. They work to encourage the best behavior on the part of hikers to facilitate a positive Trail experience (particularly for those who are poorly prepared), and to elicit the support of those who live nearby. They discourage and mitigate misuse of the Appalachian Trail and its environments by performing educational and public-relations functions. Ridgerunners are assigned to hike specific sections of the A.T. during the day and camp at specific, high-use overnight sites throughout their patrol. Applicants should demonstrate the interest and ability to contribute to the public service effort of working on a National Scenic Trail and to promote volunteerism and membership in ATC and its club affiliates. They should possess the required skills listed below and be able to attend required trainings. Applicants must demonstrate maturity, responsibility, initiative, and self-motivation.
Requirements
- Commitment to Trail and resource protection efforts.
- Proven ability to work alone with minimal supervision.
- Ability to effectively communicate with individuals and groups.
- Strong backpacking and outdoor experience.
- Experience in working with volunteers of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels.
- Ability to hike up to 10 miles per day in steep, mountainous terrain.
- Current First-Aid and CPR certification (Wilderness First-Aid certification is preferable) training can be provided.
- Must have valid driver’s license.
- Reliable access to a personal vehicle is required.
Nice To Haves
- Basic knowledge of Long Trail/Appalachian Trail system preferred.
- Leave No Trace Trainer or Master Educator desirable, but training provided.
- Previous A.T. volunteer experience is a preferred.
- Access to a personal vehicle is strongly preferred.
Responsibilities
- Meet and greet the public and educate them about the A.T., the ATC, local Trail Clubs, local land agencies and Leave No Trace practices.
- Advise visitors on rules and regulations pertinent to the A.T. in the Smokies, including general backcountry and thru-hiker permits, proper food storage, and when relevant, parking tag requirements.
- Perform minor Trail maintenance which includes but not limited to, picking up litter on the Trail, overnight sites, and at Trailhead parking areas.
- Assist with privy maintenance as needed.
- Assist visitors, and when necessary and able, aid in emergency response incidents.
- Report unsafe conditions, misuse, and abuse of the A.T. and its overnight facilities.
- Maintain regular contact with field supervisors, Club volunteers, agency partners, and local officials.
- Complete a summary report at the end of each work period and attend a weekly debrief call with supervisors and partners.
- Regularly traverse steep and uneven terrain in all weather conditions, traveling upwards of 15 miles daily, while carrying approximately 30 pounds.
Benefits
- 1 hour of sick time per 30 hours worked.
- A field food stipend will be offered.
- Option of staying in free, provided housing near Gatlinburg, TN.
- Mileage will be reimbursed at the federal rate.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
