Backcountry Trail & Habitat Crew Member (California)

American Conservation Experience; Ridgecrest (CA); On-site; USD 16,000 - 20,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Living allowance

Free housing

Education Award

Job summary

American Conservation Experience Pacific West is seeking responsible volunteers to join conservation projects across California, with housing provided and a focus on building field skills for future careers in resource management.

Participants will serve 13 or 26 weeks on wilderness trails projects, with living allowances included and opportunities to work alongside federal and state land managers. The program emphasizes safety, teamwork, and practical field training.

Qualifications

• U.S. Citizen or permanent resident.
• Able and willing to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• Willingness to undergo and must pass a three-part criminal history check / two-part criminal history check.
• ACE participates in E-Verify.
• Preferred: Experience in hiking and navigation for long distances.
• Strong desire to enter the conservation field as a natural resource professional.

Responsibilities

• Trail construction and maintenance, including tread construction and drainage.
• Dry and wet stone masonry and habitat restoration work.
• Backcountry camping and cooking; camp life and safety.
• Fencing and invasive species removal; carrying gear to remote sites.
• Learn under professional mentors from ACE and partner agencies.

Skills

Physical stamina

Teamwork

Outdoor readiness

Job description

American Conservation Experience Pacific West is seeking responsible volunteers to join conservation projects across California, with housing provided and a focus on building field skills for future careers in resource management.

Participants will serve 13 or 26 weeks on wilderness trails projects, with living allowances included and opportunities to work alongside federal and state land managers. The program emphasizes safety, teamwork, and practical field training.