Independent Placement Program - Mt Hood Trail OHV Crew

Position Summary 

The SCA member will work to construct, maintain and improve motorized trails on the Mt. Hood National Forest's East Zone. The individuals will clear trails using chainsaws, operate ATVs and UTVs, install signs at trail junctions, install information kiosks, construct drainage features, and educate the public about recreational opportunities in the area.

 

Location

Parkdale, OR

 

Schedule 

July 14, 2025 - November 22, 2025

 

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

• Construct and maintain motorized trails using chainsaws and hand tools
• Brush out trails corridors with saws and loppers
• Install signs
• Educate forest visitors
• Maintain trailhead facilities and OHV campgrounds
• Work with volunteer groups in OHV trail systems, and complete other special recreation projects

 

Marginal Duties 

Assist with cleaning of other recreation sites and toilets

 

Required Qualifications 

• A passion for conservation and public lands
• Comfortable working outdoors
• The ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
• The stamina to walk long distances - up to 8 miles per day
• Passion for trails
• A four year degree in a natural resource/recreation field is preferred, but not required

 

Preferred Qualifications 

Previous chainsaw experience, ATV operations, UTV operations

 

Hours 

40 per week

 

Living Accommodations 

Government housing provided in Parkdale, OR, but individuals could also rent on the free market too

 

Compensation  

• $960 Weekly Living Allowance (Paid Bi-Weekly)
• $1,100 To/from Travel Allowance (Paid once)
• All-Weather Uniform Package
• AmeriCorps Award, valued at $2,817 at fulfillment of 675 service hours and commitment to position end date

All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes. 

 

Personal Vehicle Information

Required

 

Additional Benefits 

Defensive Drive Training

First Aid/CPR

Off-Road Vehicle Safety

AmeriCorps: Eligible/Optional

 

General Physical Requirements

• Able to understand, adhere to, and communicate with others regarding hazards, procedures, and safety policies. 
• Able to stay alert and engaged for extended periods of program time. 
• Able to independently manage known medical conditions with the resources available throughout the position or program. 
• Able to wear all required personal protective equipment, including internal or external, safety glasses, hard hats, gloves, N95 or other approved face mask or shield, chaps, and appropriate footwear.  
• Able to refrain from behaviors and actions that disrupt the work and safety of others. 
• Able to cooperate with others to complete daily group tasks, responsibilities, and project work under potentially difficult conditions, variable daily routines, and with limited personal time. 
• Able to self-regulate or co-regulate emotions and actions when distressed or uncomfortable, with or without the support of others. 
• Able to self-manage outdoor and environmental exposure (e.g., temperature, wind, sun, etc.) in a variety of weather conditions. 
• If using prescription medications, able to self-medicate by following the prescribed dosage, usage, and timing without supervisor assistance (except possibly at the direction of higher medical authority in emergency situations).
• Able to independently carry a backpack weighing up to or approximately 30% of body weight for a minimum of 5 miles and a maximum of 15 miles with adequate breaks dependent on weather, terrain, and trail conditions. 
• Able to lift a backpack weighing up to or approximately 30% of body weight, with minimal assistance from others. 

 

Working Conditions

Work schedules and projects may change on short notice or be ambiguous.;Work settings require the ability to positively interact with people of varying cultures and perspectives.;Inclement and severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and flash flooding, gusty and strong winds, foggy or decreased visibility, and lightning events.;Exposure to natural and environmental hazards such as, poison ivy, oak, or sumac, tick and mosquito -borne illness, snakes, and potential for other wildlife encounters.;Exposure and potential contact to bear habita