TAM Trails Steward - Middlebury Area Land Trust/VHCB AmeriCorps

TAM Trails Steward

Middlebury Area Land Trust

298 Maple Street, Middlebury, VT 

Full Time AmeriCorps position requiring a minimum of 1720 hours. The position begins January 12, 2027 and ends December 10, 2027.

This position is part of the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board AmeriCorps (VHCB AmeriCorps). The VHCB AmeriCorps program supports the innovative dual-goal approach of creating stable affordable housing opportunities for Vermont residents while preserving the natural and working landscape. VHCB AmeriCorps is a national service program that places members with non-profit housing or land conservation organizations around the state.

MALT protects and stewards over 3,500 acres of conserved lands and manages more than 30 miles of trails, including the Trail Around Middlebury (TAM). Our organization's mission is to connect our community with the lands we protect through conservation, recreation, and education.

The TAM Trails Steward AmeriCorps will support MALT to maintain, enhance, and expand its regional trail system-particularly the 19-mile Trail Around Middlebury (TAM) and its connections to the North Country National Scenic Trail and surrounding community networks. In this role, the individual will expand routine maintenance, improve trail condition monitoring, and support implementation of MALT's new three-year strategic plan for trail expansion and connectivity. They will also support the organization with trail documentation, volunteer coordination, public engagement, and community outreach. 

Essential Functions

• Perform routine trail maintenance and stewardship on the Trail Around Middlebury (TAM), North Country National Scenic Trail segments, and associated trail networks, including clearing brush, repairing tread, improving signage, and addressing safety concerns.
• Conduct regular trail condition monitoring and documentation using field notes, GPS tools, and photo records to support maintenance planning and long-term trail management.
• Assist with trail planning and connectivity efforts in coordination with MALT staff and partners, supporting implementation of the organization's strategic plan for regional trail expansion.
• Support volunteer recruitment, coordination, and supervision for trail workdays and stewardship events.
• Assist with public communications related to trails, including newsletters, trail updates, event promotion, and community outreach.
• Support coordination of trail-related events and community engagement activities that promote outdoor recreation and stewardship.
• Maintain accurate records of trail work, volunteer participation, and stewardship activities to support organizational reporting and evaluation.
• Collaborate with MALT staff, AmeriCorps cohort members, and community partners to advance trail access, safety, and long-term sustainability.
• Participate in an Independent Service Project under the guidance of VHCB AmeriCorps.
• Participate in all VHCB AmeriCorps Program Initiatives & outreach efforts, and storytelling activities that promote AmeriCorps.
• Engage in professional and personal development activities and networking opportunities. 
• Submit bi-weekly timesheets.
• Complete all enrollment and exit requirements.

Benefits

• A living allowance of $31,000 (pre-tax).
• An education award of $7,395 (pre-tax) upon successful completion of term of service
• Healthcare coverage
• Childcare assistance (must meet qualifications)
• Loan forbearance for federally backed student loans, if qualified