Minnesota Driftless Hiking Trail
Position Description:
Title: Trail Director
Reports to: Board of Directors
Direct Reports: None
FLSA Status: Exempt
Role Type: Full-time 40 hours a week; 3 year, grant funded through June 30, 2027
Salary/Rate: Salary $60,000
Work Hours: Flexible; some weekends and evenings
Start Date: TBD, Prefer August 2024
About Us:
The Minnesota Driftless Hiking Trail is an emerging non-profit organization dedicated to creating and maintaining a 100 mile, premier hiking trail through the unique and ecologically significant Driftless Area of southeastern Minnesota. Our mission is to connect people with the natural beauty of this region, promote conservation, and enhance outdoor recreational opportunities for all.
The Minnesota Driftless HIking Trail received $411,000 in funds from the Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund to support the hiring of this Trail Director to conduct community engagement, planning, contract with a trail designer, and organize volunteer trail building and maintenance crews.
Position Overview:
We are seeking a passionate and visionary Trail Director to lead the establishment and growth of the Minnesota Driftless Hiking Trail. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of outdoor recreation in the Driftless Area and to leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.
Essential Functions
65% Community Engagement and Outreach
Establish sound working relationships and cooperative arrangements with diverse stakeholders including individuals, community groups, businesses, chamber of commerce, and other organizations.
Identify and cultivate relationships with potential landowners in the proposed trail corridor.
Work closely with the DNR and other government agencies in the proposed trail corridor.
Recruit, train, and coordinate volunteers, contractors, and partner organizations for trail development and maintenance.. Ensure safety is maintained at all times.
Serve as an advocate and spokesperson for MDHT and actively promote the organization to agencies, organizations, individuals, and the general public to grow audience use and participation. This will include public speaking events, social media, newsletter, email blasts, etc.
Organize events, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities to engage and inspire community involvement.
Develop marketing and communication strategies to raise awareness and support for the trail.
20% Executive Leadership and Administration
Work closely with a trail building consultant (yet to be determined) to ensure new trails are built using best practices considering locations, conservation practices, etc.
Ensure environmental sustainability and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Maintain a working knowledge of significant developments and trends in backpacking trails.
Ensure that official records and documents are maintained to keep the nonprofit, 501c3 status, and that MDHT remains at all times in compliance with federal, state and local regulations.
Work with the Board Chair to set Board meeting agendas and schedule meetings.
Participate in Board committee meetings.
15% Fundraising and Financial management
In conjunction with our fiscal agent, Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center, be responsible for developing and maintaining sound financial practices.
Ensure that adequate funds are available to permit MDHT to carry out its work and sustain its operations.
Provide leadership in developing organizational and financial plans in cooperation with the board of directors, and carry out plans and policies as authorized by the board.
Develop and manage the organization's budget.
With the Board of Directors, support fundraising efforts, including grant writing, donor relations, and community events.
Minimum Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree.
Minimum of 3 years of experience in a leadership role within a nonprofit organization, preferably in outdoor recreation, conservation, or a related area.
Minimum Qualifications & Skills
High attention to detail and ability to prioritize, adapt, and problem-solve.
Passion for the outdoors, conservation, and community engagement.
Ability to work with and present to individuals from diverse backgrounds, including large groups.
Experience with maintaining organizational budgets and financial management.
Experience with fundraising.
Strong leadership and organizational skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
US driver’s license and use of own vehicle.
Preferred Experience, Qualifications, & Skills
Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, outdoor recreation, nonprofit management, or a related field.
Master’s in environmental science, outdoor recreation, nonprofit management, or a related field.
Proven track record in fundraising and development.
Experience with trail building.
Familiarity with the Driftless Area and its unique ecological features.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted as a satisfactory substitute for the specific education and experience listed above. See specific Workplace Conditions here.
Benefits:
Flexible benefits package available including health insurance stipend, fringe benefits, retirement and PTO.
Opportunity to make a significant impact on the community and the environment.
Flexible work environment with remote work options.
Professional development opportunities.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to MNDriftlessHikingTrail@gmail.com with the subject line “Trail Director Application – [Your Name]” submissions by August 15th will be given priority in the hiring process.
The Minnesota Driftless Hiking Trail is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
