Wilderness Project Coordinator

About Friends of the Superior National Forest

Friends of the Superior National Forest is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports volunteer stewardship across the three-million-acre Superior National Forest, including the one-million-acre Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. We engage volunteers and partner organizations in shared recreation and wilderness projects such as trail maintenance, campsite rehabilitation, invasive species removal, and tree planting.

Friends of the Superior National Forest serves as a critical partner to the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) by helping to expand capacity to maintain trails, care for campsites, and sustain public access through community-based volunteer stewardship.

This is a limited term seasonal position not to exceed 40 hours per week. Dates will be approximately from April 24 to August 24, 2026. The Wilderness Project Coordinator will:

• Lead volunteers on stewardship projects within the Superior National Forest, generally focusing on the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
• Train volunteers on safety, including use of tools and personal protective equipment. Maintain safe working conditions for self and volunteers.
• Document project outcomes including tracking volunteer hours, taking photos, and measuring deliverables. Complete a short project summary after each event.
• Maintain current first aid certification (or higher) and CPR certification. Paid training will be provided April 25‑26 if not already certified.
• Coordinate project logistics with the Executive Director and/or Forest Service staff.
• Coordinate tools, supplies, and volunteer support materials before and after the project, including tool maintenance as needed.
• The position may include outreach and education activities as schedule allows.

During project planning and preparation, the Wilderness Project Coordinator will work remotely from a home office or other setup. A computer or technology stipend will be provided. Tools, equipment, and personal protective equipment are provided. During projects, the Wilderness Project Coordinator will camp at provided sites, often with volunteers. A limited gear library is provided free of charge.

This position involves outdoor field work in remote and backcountry settings within the Superior National Forest and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Work may include exposure to variable and occasionally extreme weather conditions, including rain, cold, heat, humidity, sun, and insects.

The position requires the ability to hike and stand for extended periods, traverse rough, uneven, wet, or slippery terrain, and carry tools or gear weighing up to 50 pounds for moderate distances. Work will involve canoe travel, camping for multiple days at a time, and limited access to immediate medical care. Exposure to ticks, mosquitoes, and other hazards typical of a wilderness environment is possible.

Friends of the Superior National Forest recognizes that no candidate will bring every skill listed below and encourages applicants with relevant experience to apply.

• Experience working or volunteering on natural resource stewardship projects such as trail maintenance or related field work
• Experience leading or co‑leading volunteers or small groups in outdoor field settings
• Safety‑conscious, with experience working in wilderness or remote outdoor environments
• Ability to carry up to 50 pounds for moderate distances over rough terrain
• Effective and clear communicator
• Flexible and able to adapt quickly to changing situations
• Able to work with limited supervision
• Organized to maintain records and submit reports
• Valid driver’s license
• Willingness to work nontraditional hours, including weekends and multi‑day projects
• Commitment to completing the full season in this position

• Knowledge of the Superior National Forest and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
• Experience working with the United States Forest Service or other public land management agencies
• Experience with multi‑day canoe‑based backcountry experiences
• Experience adhering to Leave No Trace principles

• Wilderness…