Seasonal Overnight Campsite Inventory Technician at Appalachian Trail Conservancy – Remote

Organizational Mission:

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s mission is to protect, manage, and advocate for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.

The A.T. Overnight Site Inventory Field Technician will report to the Visitor Use Management Data Manager. This comprehensive overnight site inventory is a foundational part of ATC’s Sustainable Overnight Site (SOS) Program, and an A.T. Experience benchmark at the beginning of the A.T.’s 2nd Century. This role will work independently to systematically and comprehensively use ATC’s campsite inventory protocol to evaluate every overnight site, both user created and A.T. manager endorsed sites, along the A.T. between Rockfish Gap and the VA/TN border, and further south if time permits. A professional Recreation Ecologist will provide thorough training to support this role. A campsite inventory kit will be provided to each technician. Backpacking may be required to efficiently access and inventory all parts of the A.T. in the target areas.

• Work independently to systematically and comprehensively use ATC’s campsite inventory protocol to evaluate every Virginia overnight site assigned by the end of October 2025.
• Compile evaluations and enter simultaneously into the RIMS app via a smartphone or tablet.
• Report weekly, or more frequently as needed, to ATC VUM staff, ATC Regional Managers and Recreation Ecologist regarding progress of the overnight site inventory.
• Assure communication with A.T. Club members, ATC Regional Managers and Agency partner staff noted in provided contact list prior to inventory work in their areas of A.T. responsibility.
• Collect appropriate background information on inventory areas from A.T. mgt. partners.
• Assure excellent cooperation with all A.T. partners, inviting their participation and providing campsite inventory training as appropriate.
• Coordinate inventory work, shuttles, communications in a timely and professional manner.
• Keep campsite inventory equipment in good condition including use of a bear canister for food storage.
• Work safely and follow check-in check-out protocols.
• Set an excellent Leave No Trace example for A.T. visitors.

• Academic experience or course work in environmental studies, recreation management, natural resources management, forestry, or related field preferred.
• Ability to identify and assess damaged overnight site structures: stick built, log built, etc.
• Commitment to ATC management and resource protection efforts.
• Proven ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to hike up to ten miles per day in steep, mountainous terrain.
• Ability to effectively communicate with individuals, groups, and partners.
• Ability to live independently and work in a remote area with minimal supervision.
• Ability to backpack carrying work and camping equipment.
• Ability to camp at least four consecutive nights along the A.T.
• Comfortable working multiple days outdoors in frequently adverse weather conditions.
• Strong hiking and outdoor experience.
• Experience in collaborating with volunteers of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels.
• Basic knowledge of Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s cooperative management system preferred.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• May be exposed to hazardous physical conditions and seasonal exposure to extreme weather conditions, including rain, snow, humidity, intense heat, and sunlight.
• Must be able to hike for extended periods and perform routine moderate lifting carrying up to 50 pounds in a backpack over a minimum of five miles through rough, uneven terrain, and wet, and slippery surfaces.
• Long days in the field and weekend work, typically 40 hours per week.
• Possible exposure to ticks and pests, extreme weather, and hazards typical of a backcountry environment.
• Regular use of a tablet or smartphone is required using the Colorado Mt. Club’s RIMS app.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and use a reliable personal vehicle.
• Occasional use of a computer is required; Microsoft Office, Office 365, ESRI GIS, NPS database, ADP, NetSuite, RIMS, and Google applications are used.

Additional Information

• Term Length: Approximately April 15, 2025 - September 30, 2025
• Hourly Rate: ($18.00 - $20.00)
• Housing Stipend: ($500 Housing Stipend may be provided if applicant meets criteria).
• Location/Region required to work from: One of the 14 Trail States.
• Benefits: 1 hour of sick time per 30 hours worked.

ATC Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) encourages collaboration, flexibility, and fairness with all employees and volunteers to enable participation and contributions to their fullest potential.

We are committed to being a diverse and inclusive organization and recognize that diversity contributes to an effective and successful organizational culture and mission.

The ATC prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity and/or expression), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, political affiliation, union membership, or any other status protected by the laws and regulations in the locations where we operate.

Appalachian Trail Conservancy's Identity Statement