Organizational Mission: 

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s mission is to protect, manage, and advocate for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.

Position Summary

The Education Coordinator will report to the Regional Manager and will support registered thru-hikers and provide education on Leave No Trace, local rules & regulations, proper food storage, and other pertinent information. The Education Coordinator works primarily at the designated basecamp and will work with ATC staff and trail club volunteers. This role will help ensure consistent educational messaging, capacity for important food storage demonstrations, and better balance of shared duties with volunteers.

Volunteers will continue to help assist at the designated basecamp location and provide primary coverage during the coordinators off days. This role will have positive educational conversations and help prevent a cascade of negative effects on natural resources and the trail that would otherwise reach not only the specific region, but the rest of the Appalachian Trail.   

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Facilitate Start Smart video presentations for registered thru-hikers and answer visitor questions with a Leave No Trace focus in messaging.   
• Participate in weekly check-in calls with all stakeholders including ATC partners, volunteers, and internal staff.  
• Update messaging focus boards based on information from partners.  
• Demonstrate PCT-style hangs when requested.  
• Ensure ATC’s Incident Report and Bear Encounter Report Forms are shared with visitors.  
• Coordinate with designated Trail Ambassador Coordinator on coverage at basecamp.
• Troubleshoot technology issues as they arise from digital tablet registration   
• Ensure good communication with park service on needs for the AT.  
• Other duties as assigned by the Regional Manager. 

Qualifications

• Academic experience or course work in environmental studies, recreation management, natural resources management, forestry, or related field preferred. 
• Commitment to ATC management and resource protection efforts. 
• Proven ability to work with minimal supervision. 
• Ability to effectively communicate with individuals, groups, and partners. 
• Ability to live independently and work in a remote area with minimal supervision. 
• Strong hiking and outdoor experience. 
• Experience in collaborating with volunteers of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. 
• Basic knowledge of Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s cooperative management system preferred. 
• Leave No Trace Trainer or Master Educator desirable, awareness training is provided. 
• Current Wilderness First-Aid, or higher, and CPR certification is preferred training is provided. 
• Willingness to participate in additional required training which includes but not limited to: USFS chainsaw & crosscut saw certification, WFR/WFA, advanced rockwork, rigging, safe driving. 

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Must be able to hike for extended periods and perform routine moderate lifting carrying up to 50 pounds in a backpack over a minimum of five miles through rough, uneven terrain, and wet, and slippery surfaces. 
• Possible exposure to ticks and pests, extreme weather, and hazards typical of a backcountry environment. 
• Regular use of a computer is required; Microsoft Office, Office 365, ESRI GIS, NPS database, APD, NetSuite, RIMS, and Google applications are used. 
• Must have a valid driver’s license, and access to a reliable personal vehicle. 

Additional Details:

• 12-week season beginning in early February and finishing at the end of April.
• In-person training will begin Monday February 2nd, 2026. Any remote training components that take place prior to the in-person training will be communicated ahead of time. 
• The last day of the season will be Monday April 20th, 2026.
• Hourly Rate: $19.00-$22.00
• Benefits: 1 hour of sick time per 30 hours worked.

ATC Equal Employment Opportunity Statement   

ATC encourages collaboration, flexibility, and fairness with all employees and volunteers to enable participation and contributions to their fullest potential. 

We are committed to being an inclusive organization and recognize that a broad range of perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds contributes to an effective and successful organizational culture and mission. 

ATC prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity and/or expression), national origin, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, political affiliation, union membership, or any other status protected by the laws and regulations in the locations where we operate. 

ATC's Identity Statement 

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