Position Description:  The Nevada Conservation Corps (NCC) program at the Great Basin Institute (GBI) is in search of a Trails Support Specialist for Lassen National Forest, tasked with guiding and overseeing trail survey and maintenance operations. This individual will work in tandem with the NCC Trails and Restoration Coordinator, playing a crucial role in the management and execution of field activities. The specialist’s responsibilities extend to consolidating project data for strategic planning and reporting, ensuring seamless communication with forest management for ongoing and future conservation efforts.

In the field, the specialist will assist  with trail design and construction projects, stepping in as a leader when the Coordinator is unavailable, and spearheading the development of trail features and infrastructure. This role also involves orchestrating collaboration among field teams to fulfill project objectives and conducting advanced training to enhance team capabilities. Additionally, the specialist will work with GIS technicians to refine data collection methodologies, aiming to improve the precision and applicability of GIS data in conservation planning and decision-making. This position is central to enhancing the recreational and conservation value of Lassen National Forest through meticulous project management and innovative field leadership.

Essential Job Functions

• Fieldwork: 80% field-based, managing and evaluating trail projects, with 20% office time for planning and reporting with periods of 100% field engagement for extended durations.
• Communication: Liaise with NCC Trails Coordinator on project logistics and issues.
• Site Evaluations: Regularly assess project progress, ensuring goals and quality standards are met.
• Training & Support: Provide field support and training to improve safety, work quality, and personal development of crew members.
• Orientation & Training: Lead trail components of orientations as directed by the NCC Trails Coordinator and offer ongoing training to field staff.
• Project Oversight: Manage trail construction, feature building, and GIS data collection and progress, ensuring quality and timeliness.
• GIS Support: Assist with GIS troubleshooting and quality control, and create comprehensive project maps.
• Performance Tracking: Monitor project progress, coordinating with the GBI Trails Coordinator to meet targets.
• Equipment Management: Assist maintaining  inventory and maintenance standards for trail equipment and fleet.
• Collaboration: Work with the NCC Trails Coordinator on data schema and collection methods.
• Reporting: Compile comprehensive progress reports and contribute to final project reports using ArcMaps.
• Maintenance & Cost-Saving: Procure, maintain, and handle tool/equipment repairs and seek cost-efficient solutions.

Requirements/Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily carry out each essential duty. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Experience Required: Proficiency in trail construction, design, and rehabilitation, preferably with GBI, Conservation Corps, or similar (e.g., FS, BLM, Park Service).
• Physical Fitness: High level of fitness and willingness for overnight backcountry trips.
• Work Environment: Capable of working solo or in groups, including large teams up to 15, in remote settings.
• Technical Skills: Skilled in using GPS, trail maintenance equipment, and software like ArcGIS and Avenza Maps; Expertise in technical trail work, including design, layout, and construction; familiarity with trail maintenance tools and practices.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to work outdoors, lift 50 lbs regularly and 80 lbs occasionally.
• Independence: Initiative-driven, capable of independent work and teamwork, with minimal supervision.
• Adaptability: Can smoothly adjust to changing circumstances while upholding safety, quality, and productivity standards. Availability for flexible scheduling, including weekends and extended periods of field work.
• Communication: Effective communicator with diverse groups; clear and consistent communication with GBI staff.
• Agency, Member, and Partner Engagement: Lead and manage volunteer programs effectively; Engage with and maintain relationships within Nevada’s environmental community and agencies.
• Eligibility: US citizen or green card holder, 21+ for GBI vehicle operation, valid driver’s license, and clean driving record. Must pass a federal background check.
• Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Resources Management, Conservation Leadership, Environmental Science, or related field, or three years’ related experience.
• Mission Promotion: Demonstrate a strong work ethic, take initiative, and advocate GBI and NCC mission and objectives to field teams and partners.
• Technology: Utilize ArcGIS, Microsoft Word, and Excel proficiently for program management and reporting.

CONTRACT TIMELINE AND LOCATION

This position is seasonal, with potential for additional opportunities as projects with similar needs arise.

Start: May 2024

End: November 2024

Location: Reno, NV Field Station

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

The compensation rate is $28.00 hourly, with a per diem allowance of $15.00 per field day.

In addition to a competitive base salary, this position includes comprehensive health benefits (medical, dental, vision), mental health support resources, and Personal Paid Leave. This exciting role contributes to GBI’s significant positive impacts within the fields of environmental research, education, and conservation.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS  

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, use hands, stand, walk, bend, and have specific vision abilities to include close and distance vision, and ability to adjust focus working with computer business equipment and other job/industry specific equipment. Ability to perform heavy physical labor. Must be able to lift up to 80 pounds on occasion and up to 50 to 75 pounds for field-related work. The noise level in the work environment is usually mid level.

The overall nature of the position is both sedentary and active, at times requiring little physical effort and occasional light exertion and at times requiring frequent physical effort and exertion. There is frequent exposure to environmental conditions such as heat, cold, and temperature changes while in the field.

Nevada Conservation Corps (NCC), a Program of The Great Basin Institute: 

Established in 1999 as a federally-funded AmeriCorps program, NCC is a vital component of the Great Basin Institute's efforts in conservation. This 21st-century service corps harnesses the enthusiasm and dedication of youth and volunteers for resource management, focusing on land restoration and conservation internships. NCC offers extensive professional development opportunities for those seeking careers in conservation and land management. Celebrating diversity, the NCC assembles members and staff from varied backgrounds to effectively address the needs of Nevada's public lands and communities. It provides a platform for students and emerging professionals to make impactful contributions to the preservation of Nevada’s natural heritage, while also gaining invaluable experience in the field of natural resource management.

The Great Basin Institute (GBI): 

Founded in 1998 at the University of Nevada, the Great Basin Institute is a leading interdisciplinary field studies organization, fostering environmental research, education, and service throughout the West. GBI specializes in applied research to support science-based management of public lands and is fervently committed to the promotion of scientific understanding through its field studies, conservation efforts, and public outreach. GBI is home to numerous influential programs, including the Nevada Conservation Corps, International Conservation Volunteer Exchange, Research Associate Program, Cultural Resource Program, Basin & Range Forestry, NEPA Services, Ecological Monitoring Program, and oversees visitor centers at Taylor Creek, Galena Creek, and the Tallac Historic Site, thereby expanding its reach and impact in safeguarding the region's natural and cultural heritage.

Disclaimer: Although the Company has attempted to accurately and thoroughly describe this position, the Company reserves the right to change the same, including to change, add to or subtract from the duties outlined, within the sole discretion of the Company, at any time, with or without advance notice.