Trails Manager & Conservation Project Assistant

Are you interested in trail building with the potential for professional growth in a dynamic organization? This position provides ample opportunity to apprentice with ACT’s Conservation Projects Managers, and Conservation Ecologist & Land Manager, to advance your career opportunities!

Ammonoosuc Conservation Trust is the nationally accredited, locally based, nonprofit lands conservancy serving New Hampshire's northern Grafton County and southern Coös County region. In our 20 years, we have protected 34 properties (5,500+ acres) for all who live here, now and in the future. Our presence in the communities we serve spans recreation, conservation, education, and creating ties to the natural world and each other. Our partnerships, sponsorships, collaborations, and land conservation speak to our success.

For more information about ACT check out act-nh.org

OUR HIRING PROCESS & TIMELINE:
• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled
• First round of interviews will be virtual
• If invited to the next round of interviews, a list of references and photographs of trail work that you have managed will be requested
• Final candidates will be invited to participate in an in-person interview
• Once a candidate is accepted, a background check will be performed
• We would like to have the selected candidate start by late Spring

ACT encourages individuals currently underrepresented in the outdoor community to apply. As an equal opportunity employer, ACT does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion or belief, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, political affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Reports to: Executive Director
Collaborates with: other ACT staff, including but not limited to the Conservation Projects Managers (CPM), Conservation Ecologist & Land Manager (CELM), and the Outreach Coordinator, on organization-wide initiatives.

COMPENSATION, HOURS & BENEFITS:
• Part-time hourly wage position with a starting pay range of $18-21/hr
• 30 hours per week with an anticipated increase to 32-35 hours weekly following a 120-day probation period and successful evaluation
• 4 paid holidays per year
• Voluntary participation in ACT`s retirement package after one year of employment with an Employer Matching retirement contribution of up to 3%
• At 32 hours/week, 100% employer single-person medical coverage, with out-of-pocket add-ons, paid vacation/holidays
• Seasonal off-site workdays in the field for all staff
• Flexible weekly schedule, options for hybrid meetings/work, including some evenings and weekends
• Organization-wide mindfulness of work/life balance; dog-friendly office headquarters
• This position is contingent upon adequate funding

SUMMARY:
The Trails Manager-Conservation Project Assistant will manage a growing portfolio of trails, view ledges, meadows, and waterfront access, here adjacent to the White Mountains.

We are seeking a personable, collaborative, and experienced Trail supervisor who will be integral in building stewardship processes in our service area while managing volunteers and apprenticing under our present conservation projects team for land transactions.

ACT is working toward expanding conservation efforts in Coös County, making this an exciting time for the right candidate to accept this position. Applicants with experience in or an understanding of communities in Coös County are encouraged to apply.

For more information about our premier properties, https://act-nh.org/explore-our-lands.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• An education background in environmental sciences, environmental studies, similar course work, or other related experience
• Experienced team leader skilled in planning, building, and maintaining trail systems with a working knowledge of sustainable trail standards and practices
• Hands-on practical experience in the use and maintenance of the equipment needed to perform such tasks
• Strong management skills overseeing complex, multifaceted projects
• Adept in providing training and instruction to staff, volunteers, and trail crews
• Prior experience in partnering with colleagues and other conservation and trail organizations to complete projects
• Must be able to carry up to 50 lbs. of gear and construction materials across hilly and wooded terrain for up to 3 miles.
• Must be 18 years of age, possess a valid driver's license, and a reliable vehicle

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• Chainsaw certification, First Aid, Wilderness First Aid, or Wilderness First Responder credentials, or willingness to become certified
• Proficiency in GPS usage and mapping technology
• Familiarity w/Microsoft Office
• Experience in engaging landowners, land stewards, and government officials
• Prior experience with successful grant writing

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Collaborate with landowners, volunteers, and contractors to design, build and maintain public trails, parking, trail access, and amenities
• Promote regional cohesion of trail development, funding, and access by collaborating with area trail organizations such as Parker Mountain Trails, Bethlehem Trails Association, FA-NEMBA, SPNHF, NH State Parks, and the National Forest Services
• Collaborate with ACT staff and Lands Committee to resolve potential issues that may arise between different trail user groups and/or landowners
• Identify funding strategies for improvement, restoration, mitigation and access through donations, grants, and fundraising programs
• Assist with annual property monitoring in conjunction w/Conservation Project Manager; engage volunteers to assist in this task
• Assist in developing plans regarding existing and proposed trails for ACT`s public access lands by the end of the second year of employment, collaborating with the Conservation Projects Managers and the Conservation Ecologist & Land Manager
• Represent ACT at meetings with local officials, town planners, and regional, state, and federal agencies
• Assist Outreach Coordinator with website content providing maps, trail descriptions, and other information as needed
• Other duties as assigned