SHARC Trails Seasonal Employment
Trails Technician Position Description:
The Pocahontas County Convention and Visitors Bureau (PCCVB), in collaboration with the Snowshoe Highlands Area Recreation Collaborative (SHARC) and the Monongahela National Forest, is seeking motivated, physically capable individuals to join its Seasonal Trail Maintenance Crew for the 2026 field season.
This position supports sustainable trail maintenance and development within the Snowshoe Highlands Area Ride Center, an IMBA-designated mountain bike destination. Crew members will contribute directly to trail system improvements that advance long-term recreation infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and regional outdoor tourism.
Position Information:
Job Title: Trail Maintenance Crew Technician
Season: April through October 2026 (20-Weeks w/ likely potential to extend.)
Duty Location: Monongahela National Forest, Pocahontas County, WV (Marlinton and Snowshoe areas)
Pay Rate: $450 per week Living Stipend; Higher Rates available dependent on experience level.
Additional Payment based on amount of workload and/or Active-Duty Fire Work.
Schedule: Four 10-hour days per week (weather and project dependent)
Application Deadline: Open until filled (priority consideration through April 1, 2026)
Position Summary:
Trail Technicians perform hands-on trail maintenance and construction in remote backcountry settings. Work includes improving drainage, repairing tread, maintaining vegetation corridors, and constructing sustainable trail features using both hand and power tools.
Trail Technicians will assist in the set-up and execution of local events including volunteer work days and mountain bike races. For some events, weekend work will be expected.
Crew members will regularly hike several miles into work sites carrying tools, food, water, and safety equipment. Work is physically demanding and occurs in variable weather and rugged terrain. Safety training is provided.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
Perform trail maintenance and construction activities including:
Water drainage and erosion control
Tread repair, reconstruction, and re-routes
Dry-stone masonry and rock feature installation
Vegetation management using hand tools and power equipment
Safely operate and maintain trail tools and equipment
Hike up to 5 or more miles daily carrying loads up to 50 pounds
Follow safety protocols, job hazard analyses, and crew procedures
Communicate effectively with crew leaders and teammates
Work alongside local trail club volunteers
Maintain punctuality, preparedness, and a strong work ethic
Benefits & Opportunities:
Competitive seasonal wages
Professional training and skill development
AFLAC supplemental benefits
Outdoor industry pro-deal access
Workforce development pathways in trails, fire, and emergency response
Opportunity to contribute to a nationally recognized trail system
Training & Skills needed for work in our region.
Minimum Qualifications:
Valid driver’s license
High school diploma or GED
Ability to perform strenuous physical labor in outdoor environments
Experience hiking, camping, or working in remote settings
Comfort using smartphones, GPS devices, and digital documentation tools
Strong interest in trail stewardship, conservation, and outdoor recreation
Preferred Qualifications:
Two or more years of trail work, conservation corps, forestry, landscaping, or outdoor labor experience
First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain)
Mountain biking or trail user experience
Work Environment & Physical Requirements:
Extended outdoor work in heat, cold, rain, and uneven terrain
Lifting, carrying, digging, cutting, and repetitive manual labor
Required field attire includes:
Sturdy, lace-up work boots
Long pants and layered clothing
Rain gear suitable for extended field exposure
Housing:
Applicants must secure housing within Pocahontas County prior to their start date. Limited assistance may be available for highly motivated candidates.
Wildland Fire Incentive Training Program (Optional):
In addition to trail operations, crew members may participate in SHARC’s integrated Rapid Extraction Module Support (REMS) and Wildland Fire Workforce Development Program.
This optional incentive program provides exposure and training opportunities in:
Wildland fire behavior, fuels management, and fireline safety
NWCG foundational coursework (such as S-130, S-190, L-180, ICS-100/200)
Field-based emergency response and backcountry rescue skills
Introduction to prescribed fire and forest restoration operations
Participants who successfully complete training may become eligible for future paid fire assignments, prescribed burn projects, and advanced emergency response roles through SHARC and partner agencies.
This program is designed to build real-world land stewardship and emergency response careers while strengthening regional resilience.
PCCVB is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status.
If you are passionate about outdoor stewardship and want to help build and maintain world-class trails in Nature’s Mountain Playground, we encourage you to apply.
Work Location: In person, Pocahontas County, WV
Job Type: Full-time seasonal
Applicants must send in a copy of their most recent resume.