Backcountry Campsite Caretaker

Opportunity summary

Term length

5/20/2024 - 10/14/2024

Application window

1/1/2024 - 10/14/2024

Location

Gorham, New Hampshire

Hourly pay equivalent

$15.00

Project summary

Maintain a series of 14 remote campsites and shelters along the Appalachian Trail in the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire and Mahoosuc Mountains in Maine.

Opportunity description

A caretaker’s responsibilities lie equally in public service and resource protection, which is accomplished through outreach and education. Caretakers are also responsible for campsite management and rehabilitation, trail maintenance, and human waste management.

Benefits

Education benefit
Housing

Requirements and qualifications

Requirements

Educate the public on ethical camping practices in the backcountry, Provide information on trail conditions to the public, Maintain a clean and clear campsite, Maintain between 2–4 miles of trail. Clearing blowdowns, drainages, brushing corridor, Compost human waste on-site, Respond to search and rescue needs on a volunteer basis, Represent and support the efforts of the AMC in a professional and supportive manner to the public and cooperating agencies, Data collection.

Preferred qualifications

Strong commitment to resource protection and public service. Emotional maturity and self-motivation. Ability to work and live alone in remote setting with minimal supervision. Excellent education and interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with diverse groups of hikers. Extensive backpacking experience and ability to carry heavy loads long distances over rugged terrain. Strong commitment to backcountry stewardship and Leave No Trace ethics.