Southern New England Trail Crew Leader

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB•Russell, MA

10h•$23 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

AMC’s Professional Trail Crew is looking for Crew Leaders (CLs) for the 2026 season. The CL leads a crew, usually four or five people, in the execution of trail work projects. CLs are responsible for logistics, morale, quality and quantity of work produced. CLs are supported by Field Supervisors and Coordinators who manage project specifications and lead technical work on large-scale projects. AMC is committed to supporting our crew leads with training, clear expectations, consistent communication, support of a work-life balance, and presence in the field. Season dates are April 6– Oct 30, 2026. During leadership season from April 6-May14, ACLs, Crew Leaders, and 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 Noble View. 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.

Nice To Haves

Trail work experience and knowledge
Hand- and power-tool training and familiarity
Leadership experience
Wilderness First Aid certification or higher, preferred

Responsibilities

Coordinate and support a crew of 4 trail crew members to ensure a safe working environment and quality trail work in the field
Supervise the construction of trail structures like staircases, 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
Plan menus, order food, and assist in the preparation of meals for the crew
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 32 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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