Field Manager

The CONTINENTAL DIVIDE TRAIL ALLIANCE (CDTA) is now accepting applications for the newly created position of CDTA Field Manager. The CDTA is a nonprofit organization formed in 1995 to work with the federal land management agencies in the completion, management and protection of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT). When completed, the CDT will travel 3,100 miles from Canada to Mexico through Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico.

In 1999, the CDTA initiated and coordinated the development of the CDT Ten-Year Strategic Plan. This was the first time the federal land management agencies had identified the full scope of work necessary to complete the Trail across their jurisdictions.

Based on the Ten-Year Strategic Plan we have determined it will cost over $26 million to complete the CDT by 2008. The Plan reports the CDT needs 1,200 miles of new trail construction, 800 miles of reconstruction or major repair to the existing trail due to very poor conditions, over 100 miles of rights-of-ways or easements through nonfederal lands, and 1,500 miles of planning, design, survey or land acquisition work before construction can begin.

The CDTA seeks a highly motivated and team-oriented individual who is committed to helping the CDTA provide outstanding experiences on the CDT by coordinating and overseeing CDT field operations. Major responsibilities include tracking and monitoring trail construction and maintenance needs/progress and building relationships with stakeholders along the Trail.

Strong candidates are those who have leadership experience in constructing and managing nonmotorized trails through collaborative partnerships. This full-time professional position requires a Bachelor's degree, and at least two years experience in project management and construction-related activities. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) experience not necessary but is beneficial.

Must be self-motivated with ability to provide leadership. Must have strong verbal and written communication, people and computer skills. Must have good knowledge of Microsoft Work, Access and Excel. Well organized and detailed is necessary. Knowledge of and experience with federal land management agencies is highly desirable.

Individual will work out of CDTA Pine Junction, Colorado office located approximately 40 miles southwest of Denver. The position may require extensive travel in the summer (primarily June September), as well as evening and weekend work. Winter schedule can allow for vacation time to compensate for summer overtime. Will be required to live and work for several days at a time in rugged, backcountry environments, exposed to a variety of weather conditions. Good physical condition is imperative. Will be required to use personal vehicle for travel and will be reimbursed at current mileage rates. Personal vehicle must be capable of traveling on rugged unmaintained dirt roads.

Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

1. Tracking and monitoring trail planning, construction and maintenance work on the CDT, including projects funded by grants or donations relative to such work. Working closely with federal land managers (Forest Service, National Park Service & Bureau of Land Management) to coordinate and implement CDT projects. Building a positive relationship with these managers and proving the benefits of working with the CDTA. Reporting all aspects of progress on trail projects, including volunteer hours and value not related to the CDTA volunteer program.

2. Traveling sections of the Trail, if necessary, to scout or provide input on segments yet to be constructed or rerouted.

3. Assisting with the development and implementation of a CDT Master Plan.

4. Performing field inspections as needed.

5. Assisting the Director in maintaining and tracking CDT Ten-Year Strategic Plan. Will likely include utilizing a GIS Arc View/Info program to track information (training can be provided).

6. Overseeing CDTA Youth Corps program. Includes assisting with the selection of work projects and monitoring work performances.

7. Reviewing and providing comments on land management agency plans and actions relative to the CDT.

8. Coordinating with the Director of Volunteer Programs. Includes working together to identify volunteer project opportunities and trail needs. If necessary or appropriate, attending volunteer projects to represent the CDTA.

9. Representing the CDTA and providing positive public and media relations.

10. Cultivating partner relations with grassroots clubs, individuals, corporate supporters and federal agencies.

11. Assisting in the determination of human resources and materials needed to accomplish projects. Solicit inkind donations from businesses etc. as needed.

12. Preparing trail project budgets and descriptions for grant proposals and other fundraising needs.

13. Providing information on trail progress, projects and user alerts for newsletter articles, etc.

14. Assisting federal land managers with design of CDT trail restoration and construction projects if needed.

15. Attending special events and making presentations as needed.

16. Miscellaneous tasks as needed.
Salary and Benefits: Starting salary is $28,000 plus health benefits, travel expenses, paid vacation and membership to local gym.

Application Deadline: February 22, 2002

Anticipated Hire date: March/April 2002

Send via mail or email to Attn: CDTA Field Manager position:

CDTA,
P.O. Box 628,
Pine, Colorado 80470
Attn: CDTA Field Manager position

No phone calls, please.