Position title: Trail Crew Technician

Reports to: Program Manager

Status: Full-time, hourly, non-exempt, seasonal

Salary: $20 - $22 / hour

Season: Approximately 4/8 – 10/16 (some end dates flexible and potential opportunity for extended season)

Benefits: Eligible for employer-contributed 401k (subject to 2-year vesting period), S-212 saw certification, cell phone stipend $10/month, hitch stipend $20/day, pro-deals, RMFI uniform, accrued paid sick leave, and overtime eligibility.

ABOUT US:

Rocky Mountain Field Institute (RMFI) was founded in 1982 and is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit environmental organization based in Colorado Springs, Colorado, dedicated to the conservation and stewardship of public lands in Southern Colorado. RMFI is committed to protecting and enhancing the ecological health of our land and water resources by completing projects focused on watershed restoration, forest health, and creating sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities. By prioritizing the involvement of community volunteers and youth, RMFI envisions a world where our work fosters vibrant and healthy natural systems that are respected and cared for by the public.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Trail Crew Technicians are RMFI's primary on-the-ground workforce, implementing project work under the guidance of a Trail Crew Leader and Project Managers. Technicians will work on single- and multi-day field projects, accomplishing project objectives in trail construction, maintenance, restoration, erosion mitigation, and other stewardship objectives with a crew of 4-8 members. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES and RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Completes professional trail and restoration work while adhering to RMFI standards and policies.
• Supports workdays by instructing and managing volunteers, students, and other program participants in trail and restoration techniques, field safety, and project objectives.
• Works as a team member to complete project objectives for single and multi-day projects.
• Assists Trail Crew Leader with the management of workdays by providing project orientation to participants, supporting data collection, documentation of work completed, maintaining work logs, taking photographs, and completing work in a timely and efficient manner.
• Participates in pre- and post-project activities including briefings, evaluations, and training.
• Must be eager to learn new skills, take direction from peers and supervisors, and constructively share that knowledge with crewmates.
• Assists in training new field staff and interns.
• Provides clear, effective, professional, and timely communication with all RMFI staff.
• Follows and upholds all RMFI policies, procedures, and risk management and safety guidelines.
• Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling objects weighing up to 100 pounds.
• Participate in vigorous physical activity at altitudes up to 14,000 feet.
• Other duties and tasks as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• 18 years old or older.
• U.S. Citizen, National, or Lawful Permanent Resident
• Ability to pass a criminal background check.
• A valid driver’s license.
• Current First Aid/CPR certification.
• Knowledge of trail construction.
• Conditional offerees must complete the U.S. Forest Service Workplace Capacity Test upon arrival for RMFI training.
• Desire and ability to live in the backcountry without common luxuries including running water, flushing toilets, electricity, and cell phones.
• Must be able to hike up to 10 miles daily, often while carrying a backpack of 45-70 lbs; bending, kneeling, lifting, and carrying loads over 50 lbs over rough terrain and in rugged conditions.
• Must be able to repeatedly use and carry hand and power tools.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:

• Knowledge of trail construction, design, and maintenance.
• Self-starter who demonstrates the ability to take initiative, set goals, and achieve them independently and cooperatively as a team member.

COMPETENCIES:

• Oral and written communication skills.
• Customer service skills.
• Organizational skills.
• Excellent people skills, a sense of humor, and a positive attitude are a must!
• Comfortable living and working outside in all elements (rain, snow, mud, heat, etc.).
• Commitment to safety and a respectful work environment.

WORK SCHEDULE:

• Start Date: April 2027
• Season end: Mid to late October 2027 (potential for extended season)

This is a seasonal, full-time position based in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The position requires extensive overnight camping and travel, fieldwork, and evening and weekend work. Work schedules often include eight days in the field and six days off. This position is mostly field-based during the season, though some office time is required. The position requires full commitment to the season and project schedule. Time off during projects is limited. 

• NO HOUSING PROVIDED.

Research shows that women and marginalized groups are less likely to apply for a role unless they meet every requirement. If you are passionate about RMFI’s mission and think you have what it takes for this position, we encourage you to apply, even if you do not feel you meet 100% of the listed qualifications.