VIC Trails Specialist

Position: VIC Trails Specialist

Status: Temporary, seasonal, non-exempt (mid-August to mid-October)

Department: Visitor Interpretative Center (VIC)

Reports to: Trails and Facilities Manager

Salary: $18.00 per hour

The Paul Smith's College Visitor Interpretive Center (VIC) offers a unique blend of recreation and education for both the college community and the public. Encompassing 3,000 acres of working forest, the VIC showcases the college’s deep commitment to environmental stewardship and learning. Containing nearly all ecosystem types found in the region, the VIC provides 25 miles of trails designed for running, hiking, Nordic skiing, and snowshoeing. It also features world-class Nordic ski trails and a biathlon range. Nearly 30,000 visitors come to the VIC annually to enjoy programs including hands-on learning, naturalist programs, arts and culture initiatives, and a variety of recreational opportunities. Indoor facilities include an educational exhibit area, classroom, library, art gallery space, and retail store.

Position Description:

Paul Smith’s College is seeking a seasonal Trails Specialist to maintain and improve the trail system and related infrastructure at the college’s Visitor Interpretive Center (VIC). Working directly with the Trails and Facilities Manager, staff and volunteers, the position would be responsible for a range of tasks including routine upkeep and repair to more involved trail construction projects. The position requires proficiency in using hand and power tools, following safety protocols, and equipment maintenance.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Perform routine upkeep such as clearing debris, removing fallen trees, repairing erosion damage, and maintaining signage.
• Remove overgrown vegetation encroaching on trails to maintain accessibility and safety based on trail standards.
• Build and repair trails using hand tools and power tools utilizing sustainable trail best practices.
• Follow all safety protocols, including proper use of tools and protective equipment.
• Maintain all hand and power tools and field vehicles with supervision.
• Collaborate with supervisor, staff and volunteers to accomplish project goals at a high level of excellence.
• Provide excellent, informed, and professional visitor services and public outreach.
• Assist with other duties as needed or assigned.

Qualifications and Preferences:

• Previous experience in outdoor labor, landscaping, or trail work preferred but not required.
• Proficiency in using hand tools (shovels, saws, axes, Pulaski’s, mattocks) and power tools (chainsaws, brush cutters, drill, circular saw) a plus.
• Basic knowledge of trail-building techniques and erosion control methods.
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions on uneven ground.
• Ability to lift heavy objects exceeding 50 pounds.
• Knowledge of or interest in Adirondack natural history and ecology.
• Experience and interest in working with diverse audiences of all ages.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Reliable transportation to and from work.
• New York State driver’s license and driving record acceptable to PSC insurance carrier, which will enable authorization to drive College-owned vehicle.
• Ability to work with a broad range of diverse individuals and groups to form a safe and inclusive workplace.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification in at least one of the following or willingness to obtain: First aid/CPR, Wilderness First Aid, or Wilderness First Responder.

Physical Requirements:

Environmental Conditions

• Work is primarily performed outdoors. Seasonal temperatures should be expected and various noise levels dependent on equipment being used to perform job duties should be expected.

Lifting and Carrying

• Frequent lifting and carrying of equipment weighing 25 lbs.
• Equipment and related debris is of various shapes and sizes so may require unusual gripping points.
• On occasion may lift up to 50 lbs.

Mobility

• Continuous standing and walking throughout the day across the property is expected.
• Ability to bend, stoop, and kneel to pick up items, as necessary.
• May have to climb some moderately challenging steep hills.
• Frequent need to reach overhead or below waist level to perform work duties.

Dexterity and Hand-Eye Coordination

• Manual dexterity for handling tools and equipment used in the performance of duties.

Sensory Requirements

• Good vision, including color vision, with corrective lenses as necessary.
• Good hearing with assistive devices as necessary.

Paul Smith’s College is an equal opportunity employer. Position descriptions are created that focus on essential functions, using inclusive language, and avoid unnecessary or discriminatory requirements.