Sterling Forest Trail Leader Intern

Overview:The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference is currently selecting a trail builder to lead a crew of interns and volunteers in trail building and restoration in Sterling Forest State Park in New York State.The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference is a federation of member clubs and individuals dedicated to providing recreational hiking opportunities in the region and representing the interests and concerns of the hiking community. The Conference is a volunteer-directed public service organization committed to:

• Developing, building, and maintaining hiking trails;
• Protecting hiking trail lands through support and advocacy;
• Educating the public in the responsible use of trails and the natural environment.

 Learn more at www.NYNJTC.org [1]Sterling Forest State Park comprises approximately 22,000 acres of natural refuge amidst of one of the nation's most densely populated areas, a remarkable piece of woodland, a watershed for millions, and a tremendous outdoor recreation area. This forest habitat is important for the survival of many resident and migratory species, including black bear, a variety of hawks and songbirds and many rare invertebrates and plants.Responsibilities:

• Working with park, NYNJTC, and volunteer stakeholders in order to accomplish project goals
• Working as a team with interns and volunteers building hiking trails
• Instructing groups of volunteers in a safe manner
• Filling out weekly timesheets, project accomplishments, and volunteer paperwork
• Taking and organizing photos of project accomplishments

Benefits:

• Build long lasting trail in a beautiful location
• Training and experience in dry masonry and trail structures
• Training and experience in trail tread and drainage
• Training and experience in trail design and layout
• Training and experience in developing construction documents and work logs
• Training in Leave No Trace Principles
• Lakeside housing provided
• Living Stipend provided
• Americorps Education Award

Requirements:

• At least one season of trail work experience including dry masonry
• Leadership experience
• Eligible for an Americorps Education Award and ability to follow all Americorps policies and procedures (visit www.americorps.gov [2] for more details)
• Must be at least 17 years of age, no upper age limit
• Must have a personal vehicle and valid driver license
• Durable sense of humor, enthusiasm, and ability to work hard
• Ability to maintain a safe and enjoyable work environment under challenging conditions
• Ability to motivate, teach, and work with people of all ages and backgrounds
• Ability to lift and carry heavy loads up to 50 pounds and hike 5 miles on uneven terrain
• Ability and willingness to work in all weather conditions

 Schedule:This is a full-time position with a Wednesday through Sunday work week May 1 through October 15, 2013.