Adirondack Corps Trail & Field Operations Specialist - Staff

Job Description

 

Job Title: Adirondacks Corps Trail & Field Operations Specialist

Reports to: Adirondacks Program Manager

Status: Full-Time Non - Exempt, Permanent 

Salary: $26.44 - $30.29 Hourly

Location: Long Lake, NY (On-site housing available)

 

SCA delivers a range of corps and crew programs throughout New York. The Adirondacks portfolio includes multi-week trail projects, conservation field operations, and individual placements with land managers across the Park and surrounding regions. Programs frequently partner with agencies such as the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), local municipalities, and non-profit organizations. Many member positions operate as terms of service and may be supported through AmeriCorps, where applicable. 

 

Position Summary:

This role ensures safe, high-quality trail and recreation stewardship across the Adirondack region by coordinating field logistics, mentoring conservation crews, and supporting operational excellence across all field-based programs. The specialist contributes to meaningful conservation outcomes and helps foster a positive, inclusive experience for members and partners. 

 

Job Responsibilities:

Program Planning and Delivery 

• Recruit, interview, and select Project Leaders for Adirondack-based trail crews and serve as their direct supervisor throughout the season. 
• Serve as a primary liaison with land managers and partners across the Adirondack Park (e.g., NYS DEC, local municipalities, and nonprofit partners). 
• Coordinate field logistics, including hitch schedules, project calendars, gear issue/returns, permits, vehicle assignments, and tool caches. 
• Plan pre-season operations (gear preparation, shop readiness, orientation scheduling) and organize project logistics prior to program start. 
• Assess housing, camping, service, and environmental risks; develop Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs) and implement mitigation strategies to ensure safe living and service environments. 
• Support Project Leaders with scheduling and managing project deliverables in compliance with applicable laws, SCA policies and protocols, partner expectations, and (where applicable) AmeriCorps regulations. 

Member Supervision and Compliance 

• Serve as the program’s technical advisor for trail construction and maintenance and other conservation projects (tread work, drainage, rock and timber features, rigging, tool use, and PPE). 
• Monitor member activities to ensure safety, administrative accuracy, and program compliance; conduct regular site visits to assess quality and progress. 
• Report, track, and respond to incidents in accordance with SCA policies and procedures; implement corrective actions and follow-up. 
• Manage program reporting and data integrity across internal systems. 
• Review and approve member timesheets within timelines set by SCA and, where applicable, AmeriCorps. 
• Assist regional staff in cultivating and maintaining local relationships with community organizations and agency partners; represent SCA at meetings and events as needed. 

Member Training and Skills Development 

• Ensure members receive training for the safe, p