Southern New England Trail Crew Field Coordinator

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB•Russell, MA

48d•$26 - $28•Onsite

About The Position

AMC’s Professional Trail Crew is looking for experienced trail workers and leaders to be Field Coordinators (FCs) for the 2026 season. The Field Coordinator (FC) is dedicated to one large-scale project at a time, and is expected to provide technical expertise and be active in the work, and on site for at least 75 percent of their time. The FC is ultimately responsible for the quality and quantity of work, the efficiency of the operation, and the finished product for AMC and partner crews. For the remaining 25 percent or less the FC will complete reporting, attend meetings, and attend to logistics and organization. AMC’s Southern New England Trail Crew has several machine-built trail projects in 2026, and the Field Coordinator will primarily be a machine operator and project manager on these projects. Mini excavators, skid steers, mini skid steers, power wheelbarrows, and compactors are all in heavy use on these projects. Experience in machine operation and surfaced trail construction is preferred, but we are willing to train the right candidate. AMC is committed to supporting our Coordinators with training, clear expectations, consistent communication, support of a work-life balance, and presence in the field. Season dates are April 6– Nov 12, 2026. During leadership season from April 6-May14, ACLs, Crew Leaders, and Coordinators/Supervisors receive: 40 hours of training in leadership, policies and procedures; a two-day chainsaw training; a two-day rigging training; and Wilderness First Aid training. Then, they work on projects with crews comprised of leaders to get ready for the full season. From May 18 through October 30, leaders are joined by crew members as the field season kicks off. Employees can opt in to housing and food seven days a week at Noble View for $75 per week. A wide variety of food is available, and all dietary restrictions can be accommodated. No two trail projects are the same; some work expected in 2026 includes: machine-built All Persons Trails, technical bridges and boardwalks, and natural surface trail work on public land throughout Massachusetts. Trail crew works ten-hour days, often Monday through Thursday with a three-day weekend. For projects further afield, crews work eight-day “hitches” with six days off. Most projects include camping on site for days on, both backcountry camping and car camping. All work stints, either four or eight days, begin and end at an AMC base, almost always Camp Dodge. Crews usually work in four or five-person teams, but smaller and larger teams are possible. Work trucks get the crew to and from project work; all travel time, hike time, mobilization and demobilization is paid. AMC provides tents and camp kitchen equipment; employees provide their own packs, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, clothes and personal gear.

Requirements

Must be a minimum of 18 years old by start date, no exceptions.
Ability and desire to live and work outdoors for extended periods of time
Ability to work under varying weather conditions
Ability to carry heavy loads (50+ lbs.) for long distances over rugged terrain
Commitment to backcountry stewardship and Leave No Trace ethics
Commitment to professionalism
Good judgment, communication, and problem-solving skills
In order to drive, must have safe driving record and practices, subject to verification through a driver's license history check.
Outdoor leadership experience
Extensive Trail Work experience and knowledge
Hand- and power-tool training and familiarity
Wilderness First Aid certification or higher

Responsibilities

Coordinate and support one AMC trail crew to ensure a safe working environment and quality trail work in the field.
Safely and effectively use machinery such as mini excavators, skid steers, mini skid steers, power wheelbarrows, and compactors. Train and supervise crew in use.
Work with land managers, project sponsors, and partner crews to ensure standards are understood and uniformly implemented.
Meet with project partners in advance of implementation to plan project work, communicate with sponsors and partners about project as it is underway.
Provide logistical and technical support to crews, coordinate aggregate and material delivery with vendors.
Supervise the construction of surfaced trail and structures including, drainages, bridges, and retaining walls.
Layout project work and continually check specifications using levels, measuring tape, chalk lines, etc… when needed.
Safely and effectively use hand tools like pick mattocks, rock bars, hammers, loppers, saws, axes, and pulaskis. Train and supervise crew in use.
Safely and effectively use power tools such as drills, drivers, reciprocating saws, and generators. Train and supervise crew in use.
Safely and effectively use rigging equipment such as winches, cable, blocks, shackles, and slings. Train and supervise crew in use.
Work in and be prepared for nearly all weather conditions including rain, heat, humidity and bluebird days. Ensure preparation of crew, prioritize safety of crew.
Work in as low-impact a way as is possible. Revegetate impacted areas and worksites.
Foster a spirit of cooperation, safety, teamwork, and responsible stewardship
Serve as the primary responder/coordinator in the event of an emergency
Communicate regularly with Trails Program staff to obtain feedback and suggestions
Assist with maintenance of tools and equipment, and program facility as needed
Ability to drive AMC passenger vehicles and pickup trucks
Professionally represent the AMC to the public and cooperating agencies. Maintain a neat and professional appearance as much as is possible given the circumstances.

Benefits

Room & Board: Bunkhouse housing for FREE – subsidized meals
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
Other Team Member Perks:
30% discount on AMC Merchandise
Free Annual AMC Membership
4 Free nights at AMC locations
Prodeals discounts on equipment & gear and more!

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