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Regional Trail Specialist (Park and Recreation Aide 6)

 

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Regional Trail Specialist is a full time, year-round seasonal position that will assist the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation in the management of some of the most diverse and popular trails across our State Parks system.  The position will work throughout the Taconic Region, which covers Columbia, Dutchess, Putnam, and Westchester counties.  The Trail Specialist will work under the direct supervision of the Regional Trails Coordinator. 

 

The Regional Trails Specialist will have a wide range of responsibilities with the primary goal of implementing trail improvement projects aimed at enhancing regional trail resources.  The successful candidate will possess the ability to supervise the regional trail crew by serving as crew leader throughout the field season, typically May-November, as well as operate independently during the off-season.  The position requires work on uneven and steep terrain, carrying and moving tools, materials, and equipment of up to 50lbs or more. 

 

Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Recruiting, supervising, training, and managing of regional trail crew for field season operations and trail projects.
  • Implementing priority trail projects, including new trail construction, tread and drainage improvements, technical stonework, carpentry, and trail sign installation. 
  • Inventory management and routine maintenance of tools and equipment.
  • Documenting progress of trail projects for quarterly and annual reports.
  • Ensuring safe working practices and PPE are being utilized at all times.
  • Inventory, assessment, and analysis of regional trail network conditions, needs, uses, and more.
  • Collaborating with partner organizations and volunteer groups to implement trail improvement projects.
  • Working closely with Regional Trails Coordinator on development and prioritization of trail projects.

OPERATIONAL NEEDS:

  • At least one year of experience conducting trail work, including sustainable trail construction, tread and drainage improvements, and trail corridor maintenance.
  • At least one year of experience using and maintaining hand and power tools.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 
  • Ability to maintain a safe working environment.
  • Ability to interact with the public and professionally represent the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office programs. 
  • Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license that allows the candidate to legally operate a motor vehicle in New York State as a term and condition of employment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • At least one year of experience supervising multiple people in a work environment.
  • Experience with leadership, communication, time management, project management, and problem solving.
  • Working knowledge of sustainable trail building techniques.
  • Experience utilizing native stone for constructing trail features, such as, stone staircases, cribbed retaining walls, and stepping stones.
  • Experience operating and maintaining chainsaws, Game of Logging level 1 training or approved equivalent chainsaw training, preferred but not required.
  • Experience with handheld GPS, data collection, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
  • Bachelor’s Degree in environmental science, forestry, outdoor recreation, wildlife, fisheries, biology, geography/Geographic Information Systems (GIS), urban or regional planning, landscape architecture, or an equivalent discipline. 

BENEFITS:

There are various benefits that a seasonal may be entitled to, including:

  • Vacation, Holiday, Sick, And Personal Leave
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • New York State Retirement System Membership
  • Tuition Assistance Programs

Learn more about our benefits at https://parks.ny.gov/employment/benefits.aspx

 

APPLICATION PROCEDURE:

Please email a letter of interest, resume, and names and contact information for three professional references to Nathan Wenzel, Nathan.Wenzel@parks.ny.gov.  Please insert the words “Trail Specialist” in the subject line.  For any questions regarding the position please reach out to Nathan Wenzel at the email above or by phone: (845) 889-3869.