Trails Specialist

The Trustees of Reservations•Dover, MA

33d•$22 - $28•Onsite

About The Position

The Trails Specialist works as part of a regional team to protect, restore, and enhance our trail resources and systems, the environment, and visitor experience through high quality trail work. Reporting to the Regional Stewardship Manager, this person is primarily field-based, working both independently and collaboratively with MetroWest stewardship staff and volunteers and occasionally with trail specialists in other regions. Specifically, you’ll: Demonstrate true dedication to the preservation and restoration of trails, a strong commitment to natural resource protection and alignment with the mission of the Trustees. Perform both basic and advanced trail work to a high standard of quality, including: heavy reconstructive trail work such as trail relocations, tread hardening, culvert and rolling grade dip installation, rock construction (ex: stairs and retaining walls), native and dimensional timber structures (ex: bog bridges, cribbed stairs, and bridge construction), clearing storm damage, and new trail layout and construction. Use industry standard techniques and BMPs related to all aspects of trails and entrance design, layout, construction, signage/wayfinding, maintenance, restoration, and preservation for sustainability and optimal visitor experience. Knowledgeably monitor and maintain entrances and trails in all weather and seasons using standard field and shop tools, both hand and machine powered. Supervise, train, and lead volunteers and seasonal staff and assist in supervising contractors on trail and entrance projects. Assess future project work needs and assist in designing solutions for trails and entrances. Use and maintain vehicles, machinery, tools, and equipment to the highest safety standards. Perform other stewardship tasks as needed. This is a full-time, nonexempt position working 40 hours per week reporting directly to the Regional Stewardship Manager.

Requirements

The ideal candidate will have 2 or more years in a similar position/environment
Ability to quickly assess trail conditions, spot problems, and identify solutions.
Experience using hand-held power tools (ex: chainsaw, drill, brushcutter).
Basic computer skills in Office365, and an ability to learn and use trustees software. systems and mobile technology.
MA Hoisting 2A License or ability to acquire upon hiring.
Current authorization to work in the United States – a candidate must have such authorization by his or her first day of employment.
A valid driver’s license, as well as a satisfactory driving record as outlined in The Trustees’ driving policy.
This role will require driving Trustees vehicles over 10k lbs.
A satisfactory criminal background (CORI) check.
Ability to work in all weather conditions and lift 75lbs

Nice To Haves

Experience and/or training with UTV operation, trailer transport, and light machinery a plus (ex: tractor, mini-excavator, skidsteer).
Associate’s degree in natural resources or related field, preferred.
Wilderness First Aid certification, preferred.
Experience working with volunteers a plus.

Responsibilities

Demonstrate true dedication to the preservation and restoration of trails, a strong commitment to natural resource protection and alignment with the mission of the Trustees.
Perform both basic and advanced trail work to a high standard of quality, including: heavy reconstructive trail work such as trail relocations, tread hardening, culvert and rolling grade dip installation, rock construction (ex: stairs and retaining walls), native and dimensional timber structures (ex: bog bridges, cribbed stairs, and bridge construction), clearing storm damage, and new trail layout and construction.
Use industry standard techniques and BMPs related to all aspects of trails and entrance design, layout, construction, signage/wayfinding, maintenance, restoration, and preservation for sustainability and optimal visitor experience.
Knowledgeably monitor and maintain entrances and trails in all weather and seasons using standard field and shop tools, both hand and machine powered.
Supervise, train, and lead volunteers and seasonal staff and assist in supervising contractors on trail and entrance projects.
Assess future project work needs and assist in designing solutions for trails and entrances.
Use and maintain vehicles, machinery, tools, and equipment to the highest safety standards.
Perform other stewardship tasks as needed.

Benefits

Sick time: 15 days per year
Vacation time: 20 days per year (prorated)
12 observed holidays, 3 floating
Health insurance: You are eligible to participate in the Trustees health insurance benefit via Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS). BCBS also offers additional benefits, such as fitness reimbursement and rewards for healthy habits.
Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
Massachusetts Paid Family Medical Leave
Life Insurance
401k with 5% match after 1 year of employment
Employee Assistance Program: Free access to a confidential service that helps employees and their communities with personal and work-related issues, such as mental health support, counseling, and financial advice.
Reciprocity: Enjoy access to free and discounted admission and membership to more than 50 nearby museums and cultural institutions for Trustees Staff, Volunteers and Interns.
Discounts: Enjoy free entry to all Trustees properties, discount event tickets, and discounted merchandise at our stores and on stays at our inns.
Day of Wonder: Spend one workday per year to exploring a Trustees property
Day of Service: Spend one workday per year to helping with a project at a Trustees property