Alaska Trails is seeking a Trail Crew Leader who loves working with people and shares our commitment to trail stewardship. After training and preparation, Trail Crew Leaders will work in the Chugach National Forest, in Chugach State Park, Mat-Su Borough, and various other destinations in Southcentral Alaska. Each crew will have one Crew Leader who oversees four Crew Members and will coordinate with project partners, land managers, and Alaska Trails management for each project.

Alaska Trails is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt nonprofit organization incorporated in 2003. Alaska Trails’ mission is: Building trails for Alaska’s people, communities, and economy.

POSITION OVERVIEW: 

The main function of this position will be to direct the trail crew in performing and completing trail projects - including ordering supplies, training crew members, and ensuring completion of projects in a timely manner. Some project sites are remote, therefore logistics and creative problem-solving will also be a large part of the job. 

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES: 

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to: 

• Oversee crew members on project sites for the season

• Plan and prepare for the work including preparation of tools, gear, food, and other necessities 

• Work closely with Alaska Trails staff, land managers, and project partners for project planning, preparation, and material needs

• Create and foster a culture of safety and inclusion

• Ensure the Job Hazard Analysis, Emergency Action Plan, and all weekly metrics are documented and submitted

• Ensure all technical work is to Alaska Trails’ standards, including tread construction, drainage structures, and construction of steps, turnpike, and puncheon 

• Bring skill and interest to the crew

• Calmly manage emergency situations following Alaska Trails’ emergency response protocols 

• Positively represent Alaska Trails’ mission, programs, and membership in all interactions with volunteers, trail users, and others 

• Report all incidents and close calls affecting the safety, health, and well-being of crew in a timely manner 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

Preferred job skills, experience, and personal traits: 

• Demonstrated experience leading Trail Crews in the field and backcountry settings 

• Experience and desire to work in a remote area of Alaska 

• Demonstrated skills in trail maintenance and trail building 

• Basic construction and woodworking experience

• Organizational skills, attention to detail, and technology skills to provide program and administrative support 

  • Proficiency with Google Drive, Gaia GPS, and email communication

  • Owns a modern smart phone with a working, quality camera

  • Has access to a laptop or desktop computer

• Strong interpersonal skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills - ability to communicate across multiple channels to internal departments and external partners 

• Cultural competency experience and demonstrated ability to work with people of diverse races, ages, genders, abilities, and economic backgrounds 

• Ability to work independently and contribute to a team effort 

• Ability to remain calm and manage emergency situations 

• Ability to work in an outdoor environment and follow minimum impact guidelines 

• Demonstrated flexibility in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, feeling comfortable with midcourse corrections 

• Ability to work weekends and 10-hour days 

• A strong commitment to Alaska Trails’ mission 

• Ability to use mechanized equipment for trail construction if necessary 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

The following are required for this position. Applicants without all required qualifications will not be considered for this position.

• Current WFR and CPR certifications (WEMT counts)

• Current S212 A-Feller or equivalent chainsaw certification

• Valid driver’s license and ability to drive a truck with a trailer on highways and dirt roads 

Compensation: Starting at $32 per hour. Sliding scale DOE.

To Apply: 

Email the following as three separate PDFs to office@alaska-trails.org :

1. Resume

2. A brief cover letter describing your experience and qualifications

3. Three professional references 

Reference the job title “Trail Crew Leader - 2026” in the subject line. The position is open until filled, but priority will be given to resumes received by January 31st, 2026. 

Location: Based in Anchorage, AK

Timeline: Approximately 4 months. May 4th to August 27th (potential for extension into Oct.)