Position Summary 

The Ambassador represents the Outdoor Pikes Peak Initiative (OPPI) and RMFI in promoting safe, sustainable, inclusive, and enjoyable experiences across the Pikes Peak Region’s parks and trail systems. Working collaboratively with multiple land management agencies, community partners, and volunteers, the Ambassador serves as a bridge between the public and the organizations that manage these lands. This position focuses on public engagement, visitor education, stewardship, and monitoring trail and park conditions to support long-term sustainable recreation practices and equitable access to outdoor spaces. This role is ideal for someone who is outgoing, passionate about connecting with outdoor visitors, building community connections, and spending ample time outdoors. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

Public Engagement and Education 

• Serve as a friendly and informed representative of OPPI and partner agencies across city, county, state, and federal lands. This will include time spent at both major trailheads and actively hiking on regional trails. 
• Provide visitors with information about trail systems, park amenities, safety, regulations, natural resources, and sustainable outdoor recreation practices. 
• Foster inclusive and positive interactions with diverse community members and user groups. 
• Educate visitors about Leave No Trace principles, responsible recreation, and shared trail etiquette. 

Monitoring and Stewardship 

• Conduct field visits and patrols to observe visitor use, trail conditions, signage needs, and potential safety or maintenance issues. 
• Collect and report data on trail conditions, visitor counts, and public feedback using mobile tools or forms. 
• Support volunteer workdays, cleanups, and community stewardship events. 
• Assist in documenting and communicating field observations to relevant partner agencies. 

Partnership and Outreach 

• Collaborate with local land management agencies (e.g., city parks departments, county open space programs, state parks, federal land managers) to identify priority trails and areas for patrols. 
• Represent RMFI at community events, outdoor fairs, and partner meetings. 
• Contribute to educational materials, outreach campaigns, and social media updates related to trail use and stewardship. 

Other Responsibilities 

• Maintain accurate logs of activities and interactions. 
• Support evaluation and reporting requirements for grants and partner programs. 
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the organization’s mission. 

Qualifications 

Education and Experience 

• High school diploma or equivalent required; college coursework in environmental education, recreation management, natural resources, or related fields preferred. 
• Experience in customer service, community outreach, or environmental education is strongly desired. 
• Experience working with or within multi-jurisdictional land management partnerships is a plus. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

• Passion for parks, trails, and outdoor recreation. Park Ranger or Interpretive Guide experience preferred.  
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a collaborative approach. 
• Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment in the field. 
• Competence using GPS, mobile data collection apps, or basic mapping tools. 
• Knowledge and experience with a variety of basic trail maintenance and assessment techniques. 
• Wilderness first aid or standard first aid/CPR certification preferred.  
• Experience operating 4x4 offroad vehicles. 
• Comfortable working outdoors in variable weather and terrain, walking or biking several miles per shift. 
• Bilingual a plus.  

Working Conditions 

• Primarily outdoor-based; regular outdoor work in variable weather, temperatures, and terrain. 
• Requires regular evening, weekend, or holiday shifts. 
• Frequently required to walk, hike or bike distances of up to 1-5 miles. 
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 30 lbs. 
• Travel across multiple park and trail jurisdictions using personal or organizational vehicle (mileage reimbursed if applicable). 

Compensation and Benefits 

• Hourly rate: $19hr 
• Benefits: Eligible for mileage reimbursement, professional development and training opportunities, outdoor equipment pro deals, cell phone stipend, overnight travel per diem, sick leave, and overtime pay.