Field Operations Program Manager
Role summary
The Continental Divide Trail Coalition (CDTC) seeks a Field Operations Program Manager for a term-limited position (June 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2028) to lead field operations across the 3,100-mile trail. This hands-on role involves managing volunteer trail projects, community stewardship programs, and the CDT Adopter Program, working with land managers, partners, and volunteers. Responsibilities include overseeing field season logistics, staff recruitment/training, and supporting the implementation of Great American Outdoors Act funding. The ideal candidate has 5+ years of combined education/experience in trail work, project management, volunteer administration, and partnership engagement, with at least 3 field seasons leading trail projects. The role requires technical trail skills, group leadership experience, strong organizational abilities, and the capacity for multi-day field travel. This is a hybrid position based in Golden, CO, with a salary range of $59,000-$62,000.
Job Description
The Continental Divide Trail Coalition (CDTC) is seeking a Field Operations Program Manager to lead our field operations across the 3,100-mile Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.
About the Role
This position is at the heart of CDTC's stewardship mission. You'll manage volunteer trail projects, community stewardship programs, and the CDT Adopter Program — working closely with federal land managers, regional trail organizations, community partners, and volunteers across New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana.
You'll also support the on-the-ground implementation and management of Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) funding on the CDT through 2028. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who believes in grassroots, community-led conservation and wants to help ensure the CDT is maintained to the highest standards.
What You'll Do
- Lead the delivery of field operations programs, including volunteer projects, community stewardship events, and the CDT Adopter Program
- Oversee field season onboarding, cache organization, and recruitment/training/retention of field staff
- Build and sustain partnerships with public land managers, trail organizations, and community groups
- Coordinate safe, impactful field operations and maintain accurate records of accomplishments and volunteer hours
- Support GAOA program implementation, tracking, and reporting
- Cultivate CDTC's volunteer program with innovative strategies to recruit and retain volunteers from all backgrounds
What We're Looking For
- 5+ years of combined education and experience demonstrating proficiency in technical trail work, project management, volunteer administration, and partnership engagement
- At least 3 field seasons implementing and/or leading trail projects
- Technical trail skills including trail maintenance/construction, crosscut and chainsaw use, and front/backcountry travel
- Proven experience leading and training groups from diverse backgrounds
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
- Ability to be away for multi-day field projects (up to 3 weeks), including overnight camping
- Valid driver's license
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary: $59,000–$62,000 depending on experience
- $475/month toward company-sponsored health insurance
- $50/month cell phone reimbursement
- $75/month 403(b) retirement plan contribution
- 29 days PTO + 14–16 paid holidays
- Hybrid work schedule (Golden, CO office); approximately 70% office / 30% field
This is a term-limited position: June 1, 2026 – December 31, 2028.
Learn More
Join our free Hiring Information Session on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 from 5:30–6:30 PM MST. CDTC's Director of Trail Programs will share more about the role and answer questions. Attendance is optional and does not affect the hiring process.
Register: https://continentaldividetrail.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F42327
Full job description and application: https://cdtcoalition.org/field-ops-manager-job/
About CDTC
The Continental Divide Trail Coalition's mission is to complete, protect, and elevate the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail and inspire a diverse community to steward the trail and its connected landscapes. Learn more at cdtcoalition.org.
CDTC provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or other protected status.