Trail Crew Leader – AmeriCorps Conservation Action

Conservation Legacy; Old Fort (NC); On-site; USD 262,000 - 328,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Segal AmeriCorps Education Award

Living Allowance (up to $480/week)

Healthcare Coverage if Eligible

Childcare Coverage if Eligible

Loan forbearance if Eligible

On-the-job training

Job summary

Conservation Legacy is seeking an Helene Recovery Trail Assistant Crew Leader-AmeriCorps based out of Old Fort, NC, to support Hurricane Helene recovery in Pisgah National Forest. You will help lead crews on trail repair, maintenance, and new construction, using chainsaws to buck wood for structures, while managing field logistics and safety in rugged terrain.

The role emphasizes teamwork, learning, and adaptability during a 9-on/5-off hitch, with field meals provided and ongoing safety

Qualifications

• United States citizen, United States national, or a lawful permanent resident alien
• At least 17 years of age
• Has received a high school diploma or equivalency certificate; or has not dropped out of elementary or secondary school to enroll as an AmeriCorps participant, and agrees to obtain a high school diploma or its equivalent prior to using the education award
• Agrees to provide information to establish eligibility and to complete a National Service Criminal History Check.
• Applicants must hold a current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or CPR/First Aid certification at least two weeks prior to the start date. Certification should be valid for the duration of the season. CCNC will reimburse up to $150 for participants who need to obtain or renew their certification before the season begins. (Higher-level medical certifications such as WAFA, WFR, or EMT are also accepted.)
• Willingness to commit fully to the program and its mission
• Ability to effectively manage all aspects of crew life and production within a 40-50-hour work week
• Flexibility, adaptability and capacity to work in a fluid, changing work environment
• Willingness to learn and be a part of a dynamic community of peer leaders
• Must be adaptive, patient and able to maintain a positive perspective throughout
• Physically fit and able to work long days in adverse conditions
• Must be able to speak, understand and write English
• Previous corps or crew experience
• Chainsaw experience
• Experience with camping/backpacking
• Adaptability
• Professionalism
• Community‑Building ethic

Responsibilities

• Support disaster recovery efforts in Pisgah NF Appalachian Ranger District.
• Reopen and repair storm-impacted trails; build and maintain trails.
• Operate a chainsaw to buck trees for trail structures.
• Crew members work on rugged terrain in inclement weather.
• ACLs assist Crew Leaders with project management and logistics.
• Seasonal position with flexible schedules and 9/5 hitch.

Skills

Team leadership

Safety awareness

Communication

Adaptability

English proficiency

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification

CPR/First Aid certification

Job description

Conservation Legacy is seeking an Helene Recovery Trail Assistant Crew Leader-AmeriCorps based out of Old Fort, NC, to support Hurricane Helene recovery in Pisgah National Forest. You will help lead crews on trail repair, maintenance, and new construction, using chainsaws to buck wood for structures, while managing field logistics and safety in rugged terrain.

The role emphasizes teamwork, learning, and adaptability during a 9-on/5-off hitch, with field meals provided and ongoing safety