Trails and Backcountry Specialist

Role Responsibilities

As a Trails Specialist, you will play a key role in maintaining and enhancing trails and backcountry campgrounds across Peter Lougheed and Spray Valley Provincial Parks. You will also support trail operations in other areas of the Kananaskis Region as needed.

This is a hands on, field-based role that combines technical trail work, equipment operation, public engagement and stewardship.

Key Responsibilities:

Summer Trail Maintenance

• Construct new trails and repair existing ones.
• Routine inspections and maintenance of backcountry trails and campgrounds.
• Clear debris, manage erosion, and maintain drainage systems.
• Install and maintain signage and backcountry campground facilities.
• Assist with helicopter operations for remote maintenance .
• Assist with helicopter servicing of backcountry campgrounds and trail infrastructure.

Winter Trail Maintenance

• Groom and track-set ski trails using snowcats and snowmobiles.
• Maintain signage and ensure trails are hazard-free.
• Perform snow removal for facility access.

Equipment and Safety

• Operate and maintain equipment (e.g., ATV’s, skidsteers, chainsaws, snowmobiles).
• Follow all OH&S protocols and complete safety documentation.
• Conduct preventative and emergency equipment maintenance.

Administration and Public Engagement

• Complete reports (trail conditions, incidents, time logs).
• Support public trail events and interact with trail users.
• Supervise volunteers and collaborate with partner organizations.

Please click on this link to view the job desciption.

APS Competencies

Competencies are behaviors that are essential to reach our goals in serving Albertans. We encourage you to have an in depth understanding of the competencies that are required for this opportunity and to be prepared to demonstrate them during the recruitment process.

This link will assist you with understanding competencies: https://www.alberta.ca/system/files/custom_downloaded_images/psc-alberta-public-service-competency-model.pdf.

• Creative Problem Solving: Contributes ideas for improving processes and adapts existing practice to address problems. Shares observations while working on the trails and suggests ideas to improve how tasks are done or to increase efficiency.
• Drive for Results: Works to exceed goals and partner with others to achieve objectives. Take pride in your work - whether you're building a bridge or picking up litter, aim for quality and safety. Your efforts directly shape the experience of park visitors and support the goals of our programs.
• Develop Networks: Maintains collegial internal relationships and understands external network. Whether you're working on your own or with a team, it's important to think about how your work fits into the bigger picture. Consider how it affects others and look for ways to support the goals of the team, the organization, and the people who use our trails.
• Build Collaborative Environments: Leverages skills and knowledge of others. Collaborate with team members by recognizing and using each person’s strengths to achieve better results and support team growth.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements: High school education in a related field (i.e. carpentry, landscaping or outdoor education) and at least 1 year of related experience.

Equivalency:

Directly related education or experience considered on the basis of 1 year of education for 1 year of experience; or 1 year of experience for 1 year of education. Special Requirement: Physically able to perform the manual duties found in the position assignment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with trail maintenance in both summer and winter settings.
• Wilderness First Aid, Avalanche Safety, or Snow Science certifications.
• Familiarity with mountainous and remote work environments.

Assets:

• Carpentry, landscaping, or logging experience.
• Equipment operation (e.g., snowcats, excavators, chainsaws).
• Helicopter long-line or overhead crane operation.
• Small engine or automotive mechanical skills.
• Understanding of recreational trails.
• Exceptional communication skills and comfort level in dealing with difficult customer interactions or complaints.

Minimum recruitment standards outline the minimum education and experience required for appointment to a job classification. Refer to https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-public-service-minimum-recruitment-standards.

Notes

This position works Monday – Friday, 40 hours per week.  Weekend and evening/night work required during the winter season.

Terms of Employment:

• Access to reliable transportation to and from place of work. Accommodation may be available. 
• A valid Alberta Class 5 Driver’s License or equivalent is required. .
• Successful candidate will be required to provide a standard 3-year Driver’s Abstract prior to commencement. 
• Adherence to Alberta Parks Uniform Policy; all personal protective equipment is provided.
• This position will require outdoor work in all varieties of weather conditions. .
• Prior to hire, recognized current intermediate Standard First Aid and CPR Level "C"/AED Certificate will be needed.

Candidates must be physically capable of performing the essential duties of the position, including manual labor such as lifting, hiking over uneven terrain, operating equipment, and working outdoors in varying weather conditions.

What the GoA has to offer:

•  Working for the Alberta Public Service - https://www.alberta.ca/advantages-working-for-alberta-public-service.aspx.
•  Public Service Pension Plan (PSPP) - https://www.pspp.ca.
•  Alberta Public Service Benefit Information - https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-public-service-benefits.
•  Professional learning and development - https://www.alberta.ca/professional-development-support-directive.
•  Research Alberta Public Service Careers tool – https://researchapscareers.alberta.ca.
•  Positive workplace culture and work-life balance.
• Leadership and mentorship programs.