Trail Stewardship Coordinator

The Trail Stewardship Coordinator reports directly to VCPA’s Deputy Director. In the field, this position will report to the Landscape & Natural Areas Manager, an employee of NYC Parks. This position will work closely with both VCPA and NYC Parks staff. Physical work includes excavating, leveling trail substrates, retrenching and resetting water bars, clearing swales, building boardwalks and turnpikes, correcting trip hazards and pruning along trails. The Trail Stewardship Coordinator will also regularly recruit, organize, and supervise volunteer groups to assist in maintenance of the trail. During the summer and fall, they will supervise high school interns and seasonal staff on trail projects. 

Ideally, the Trail Stewardship Coordinator will have equal parts interest in field and administrative work, and possess an entrepreneurial spirit. They will have a strong desire to build and grow the volunteer program and take it to the next level!

Responsibilities 

• Build VCPA volunteer programs by developing new partnerships and growing current ones.
• Lead groups of college students, interns, corporate employees, and more.
• Correct worn and eroded sections of the historic cross country running course and surrounding areas.
• General trail and forest restoration maintenance including: raking, trash removal, fence repair and installation, pruning, weeding, painting and snow removal.
• Weekly inspections, in season, of complete Cross Country Course for hazards. Monthly inspection of other trails for hazards.
• Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers.
• Use courtesy with park visitors.
• Other tasks as needed.

General VCPA Activities:

• Represent VCPA at community or tabling events outside the park.
• Create content for social media pertaining to programs and events.
• Office support and other tasks as needed.
• Participation in fundraising, educational, community, and other events.
• Assist in program-related grant proposals and report writing.
• Prepare reports to be submitted to the Executive Director.

Qualifications 

• College degree in environmental science or related field. Graduate degree is a plus.
• At least 1 year of trail maintenance, forest restoration or related experience.
• Strong leadership skills.
• Experience working with volunteers/community members.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to lift at least 50 pounds.
• Previous experience with hand tools such as shovels, pick ax, crow bar, and hand saw.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• First Aid and CPR Certification (desired).
• NYS Driver’s License.
• Will need to work scheduled programs on weekday evenings and weekends, as well as special events.

Full-time Permanent Position:

• Starting September 2023
• 35 hours per week
• Schedule varies but typically from 8am to 4pm with occasional evenings and Saturdays

Reports to: Deputy Director

Send resume and 3 references to christina@vancortlandt.org.