Smokies Ridgerunner — Backcountry Educator & Steward

ADP, Inc.; United States; On-site; USD 26,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sick time policy

Field food stipend

Housing near Gatlinburg

Mileage reimbursement

Job summary

Appalachian Trail Conservancy is hiring Seasonal Ridgerunners for the Great Smoky Mountains. Ridgerunners educate the public about the Appalachian Trail, enforce rules, and promote Leave No Trace. They hike sections daily, camp at high-use sites, and support volunteers and partners.

Role requires strong hiking ability (up to 10 miles daily on rugged terrain), maturity, initiative, and self-motivation. Training provided; benefits include field food stipend and housing options near Gatlinburg, TN.

Qualifications

• Commitment to Trail and resource protection.
• Ability to work alone with minimal supervision.
• Ability to hike up to 10 miles per day in steep, mountainous terrain.
• Experience working with volunteers of all ages and backgrounds.
• Current First-Aid/CPR certification; Wilderness First-Aid training is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Meet and greet the public and educate them about the A.T. and ATC.
• Advise visitors on rules and regulations for the Smokies.
• Perform minor Trail maintenance and litter pickup.
• Assist with privy maintenance as needed.
• Assist visitors and aid in emergency responses when necessary.
• Report unsafe conditions and misuse of the A.T.
• Maintain contact with supervisors and partners.
• Complete a summary report after each period and join weekly debriefs.
• Traverse steep terrain, often 15 miles daily, carrying ~30 lbs.

Skills

Trail protection

Independent work

Communication

Outdoor experience

Volunteer coordination

Long-distance hiking

Leave No Trace

First-Aid/CPR training

GIS/Office tools

Tools

ESRI GIS

MS Office

Job description

Appalachian Trail Conservancy is hiring Seasonal Ridgerunners for the Great Smoky Mountains. Ridgerunners educate the public about the Appalachian Trail, enforce rules, and promote Leave No Trace. They hike sections daily, camp at high-use sites, and support volunteers and partners.

Role requires strong hiking ability (up to 10 miles daily on rugged terrain), maturity, initiative, and self-motivation. Training provided; benefits include field food stipend and housing options near Gatlinburg, TN.