The Florida Trail Association (FTA) is a nonprofit founded in 1966. Our mission is to build, maintain, protect, and promote the Florida National Scenic Trail (FNST) and a statewide network of hiking trails, along with our primary agency partner, the U.S. Forest Service. As the organization approaches its 60th anniversary, it operates with an annual budget of approximately $1.1 million and a core staff of around eight full-time employees. These include the executive director, program managers and coordinators, and administrative support. FTA also relies on a wide network of volunteers and chapter leaders who carry out much of our volunteer work across the state.

FTA is seeking two seasonal Technical Advisors (TAs) to support construction of a major FNST trail bridge across Spring Creek in the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. The TAs primary project will be supporting all aspects of the bridge construction during the 2025-2026 field season, including material preparation and transport, construction of the bridge and approach boardwalks, and new footpath construction and improvements (80% of TAs time). TAs work under the general supervision of the FTA Field Project Manager and are often directed in the field by FTA’s Regional Trail Program Managers. They will work closely with FTA volunteers and partner staff members.

In addition to the primary Spring Creek infrastructure project, the Spring Creek TAs will also be tasked with leading high quality trail work projects on other sections of the FNST (20% of TAs time). Trail work along the FNST largely consists of corridor brushing with hand tools and mechanized equipment. Infrastructure construction, repair, and removal can also be expected. Work projects vary in length from 2-10 days in front and backcountry locations.

The Spring Creek Technical Advisors should have a broad trail work background and excellent trail construction, crew leading, and trail layout experience. They work alongside FTA chapter volunteers, university groups, BSA troops, and other FNST partner organizations. The ability to effectively lead, teach, and supervise volunteer crews is an essential function of this position.