Seasonal Trail Ridgerunner — Smoky Mountains

Green Goat Maps; Tennessee; Hybrid; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sick time: 1 hour per 30 hours

Field food stipend

Free housing near Gatlinburg, TN

Mileage reimbursement

Job summary

Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) is seeking Seasonal Ridgerunners for the Great Smoky Mountains to educate hikers about the Appalachian Trail, regulations, and Leave No Trace principles. You will hike designated sections by day and camp at high-use overnight sites, supporting ATC programs and park partners.

Responsibilities include public outreach, trail maintenance, safety support, and reporting. Must be fit for long backcountry days, up to 10 miles daily, with 30 pounds in a pack; housing

Qualifications

• Commitment to Trail and resource protection.
• Ability to work alone with minimal supervision.
• Ability to effectively communicate with individuals and groups.
• Strong backpacking and outdoor experience.
• Experience working with volunteers of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels.
• Ability to hike up to 10 miles per day in steep, mountainous terrain.
• Leave No Trace Trainer or Master Educator desirable, but training provided.
• Current First-Aid and CPR certification (Wilderness First-Aid training preferable)
• Previous AT volunteer experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Meet and greet the public and educate them about the A.T., ATC, local Trail Clubs, local land agencies and Leave No Trace practices.
• Advise visitors on rules and regulations pertinent to the A.T. in the Smokies, including permits and parking tag requirements.
• Perform minor Trail maintenance such as litter pickup at trails and overnight sites.
• Assist with privy maintenance as needed.
• Assist visitors and aid in emergency response incidents when necessary.
• Report unsafe conditions and misuse of the A.T. and its facilities.
• Maintain regular contact with field supervisors, clubs, and partners.
• Complete a summary report and attend weekly debrief calls.
• Traverse steep, uneven terrain and carry ~30 pounds daily.

Skills

Trail discipline

Self-motivation

Communication skills

Endurance for long hikes

Volunteer coordination

First-Aid readiness

Tools

Microsoft Office

Office 365

ESRI GIS

NPS database

Google applications

Job description

Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) is seeking Seasonal Ridgerunners for the Great Smoky Mountains to educate hikers about the Appalachian Trail, regulations, and Leave No Trace principles. You will hike designated sections by day and camp at high-use overnight sites, supporting ATC programs and park partners.

Responsibilities include public outreach, trail maintenance, safety support, and reporting. Must be fit for long backcountry days, up to 10 miles daily, with 30 pounds in a pack; housing