Public Access & Trails Steward

Land Trust of Santa Cruz County; Santa Cruz (CA); On-site; USD 51,577,000 - 63,039,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance (

403(b) retirement plan with employer

Generous paid time off and holidays

Green commute stipend

Annual wellness benefit

Staff events

Dog-friendly office

Job summary

The Land Trust of Santa Cruz County is seeking a Public Access Assistant to create safe, welcoming outdoor experiences across our properties. This field-based role engages visitors, maintains trails, and supports public programs in collaboration with the Public Access Manager and Stewardship team.

Work roughly 40 hours per week, typically 7am-5pm from Sunday through Thursday, with occasional evenings or weekends. Compensation is $40.63 per hour.

Qualifications

• Experience engaging with visitors using respectful and inclusive communication.
• Ability to walk long distances on steep, uneven terrain and perform manual labor (up to 40 lbs).
• Basic knowledge of outdoor safety practices and emergency preparedness.
• Experience managing risk in outdoor environments with natural hazards.
• Ability to work independently and stay productive.
• Fluency in English and basic conversational Spanish.

Responsibilities

• Engage with visitors, share trail etiquette, and educate about rules and conservation.
• Monitor trails and visitor use; report hazards and unallowed activities to supervisor.
• Lead interpretive walks for diverse audiences.
• Assist with public programs, volunteer days, and community events.
• Maintain trails and facilities; support habitat management and erosion control.

Skills

Visitor engagement

Outdoor safety

Physical fitness

Power tools

Independent work

English & Spanish

Tools

Power tools

Hand tools

Job description

The Land Trust of Santa Cruz County is seeking a Public Access Assistant to create safe, welcoming outdoor experiences across our properties. This field-based role engages visitors, maintains trails, and supports public programs in collaboration with the Public Access Manager and Stewardship team.

Work roughly 40 hours per week, typically 7am-5pm from Sunday through Thursday, with occasional evenings or weekends. Compensation is $40.63 per hour.