Backpacking Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary
This field position is in the Integrated Resource Management Division with the Cultural Resource Management Program located in the Summit District of Haleakalā National Park. The member will conduct condition assessments for archeological sites, historic structures, and cultural landscapes and enter information into NPS Cultural Resources Inventory System; assist Archeologist with field visits and surveys; inventory, digitize, and rehouse museum collections, including archeology, natural history, art and archives. The member will assist the park's Museum Curator with creation of online content, museum tours, museum housekeeping and integrated pest management, and processing of returned rocks. The participant performs solo and team hiking/backpacking over rugged, steep volcanic terrain at high elevations (6,000-10,000 ft.) in harsh weather conditions in the backcountry.
Hosting Organization
Haleakala National Park
Location
Makawao, HI
Schedule
August 24, 2026 - February 5, 2027
Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct archaeological surveys and perform condition assessments of archaeological sites, historic structures, and cultural landscapes throughout Haleakalā National Park.
• Maintain and update cultural resource records through data entry and documentation in National Park Service databases.
• Inventory, digitize, catalog, and rehouse museum collections, including archaeological artifacts, natural history specimens, artwork, and archival materials.
• Develop digital and on-site interpretive exhibits for the park website and visitor center to enhance public engagement and education.
• Support museum operations through guided tours, collections care, housekeeping, and integrated pest management activities.
• Process and document returned rocks and cultural materials in accordance with park policies.
• Perform independent and team-based fieldwork, including backpacking across rugged volcanic terrain at elevations ranging from 6,000-10,000 feet and coastal environments under variable weather conditions.
• Travel to remote park districts, including Kaupō and Kīpahulu, to support resource management and field research projects.

Marginal Duties
Overnight backcountry trips may be a part of this position.
Required Qualifications
Willing and able to represent NPS and SCA in a professional, positive, and enthusiastic manner.
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing. Proficient in English.
Ability to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
Proven ability to be both self-directed/work alone, and be a positive, contributing member of a group.
Ability to hike over rough and uneven terrain, lift up to 35lbs, and serve in hot and humid conditions.
Posses a valid driver's license and access to a vehicle to commute to and from the work site.
Preferred Qualifications
Undergraduate or graduate degree with archaeology training or museum training is desired; Archaeology field skills; GIS data collection experience; mapping skills including tape and compass, plane table, total station, laser scanning, photogrammetry, etc.; experience taking photographs of sites or artifacts; experience working with museum collections; exhibit development.
This SCA Position is authorized under the Public Land Corps Authority. All participants must be between the ages of 16 and 30, inclusive, or veterans age 35 or younger. Participants must also be a citizen or national of the United States or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States. Hours served can be applied toward the Public Land Corps (PLC) hiring authority.
General Physical Requirements
Able to understand, adhere to, and communicate with others regarding hazards, procedures, and safety policies.
Able to independently manage known medical conditions with the resources available throughout the position or program.
Able to wear all required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, hard hats, gloves, N95 or other approved face mask or shield, and appropriate footwear.Able to refrain from behaviors and actions that disrupt the work and safety of others.
Able to cooperate with others to complete daily group tasks, responsibilities, and project work under potentially difficult conditions, variable daily routines, and with limited personal time.
Able to self-regulate or co-regulate emotions and actions when distressed or uncomfortable, with or without the support of others.
Able to self-manage outdoor and environmental exposure (e.g., temperature, wind, sun, etc.) in a variety of weather conditions.
Able to maintain adequate nutrition and hydration throughout program time.

• If using prescription medications, able to self-administer medications by following the prescribed dosage, usage, and timing without supervisor assistance. If prescription medication is administered via injection, able to self-administer the injection.

• Able to independently carry a backpacking pack weighing approximately 45% of body weight over varied, loose, inclined terrain for up to a maximum of 15 miles per day with adequate breaks.
• Able to lift a backpacking pack weighing approximately 45% of body weight with minimal assistance from others.
• Able to grip a third point of contact for balance while crossing rivers/streams or ascending/descending sloped trails.

• Able to independently carry a backpacking pack weighing approximately 30% of body weight over varied, loose, inclined terrain for up to a maximum of 15 miles per day with adequate breaks.
• Able to lift a backpacking pack weighing approximately 30% of body weight with minimal assistance from others.

Working Conditions
Work schedules and projects may change on short notice or be ambiguous.;Work settings require the ability to positively interact with people of varying perspectives.;Work settings may be located in natural environments and regionally significant locations that require respect for the land and local peoples.;Work environment may be in inclement and severe weather conditions, including heavy rain and flash flooding, gusty and strong winds, foggy or decreased visibility, lightning events, and/or decreased or inclement air quality conditions due to wildfire smoke or smog.;Work may take place in warm temperatures and adverse heat conditions which could include temperatures in some regions up to 110°F or hotter.
Hours
40 per week
Living Accommodations
Housing is not provided for this position.
Compensation
$538/week Living Allowance; $1300 Travel Stipend; $2375 Duty related expense
All allowances are subject to applicable federal, state, and local taxes.
Personal Vehicle Information
Additional Benefits
AmeriCorps: Eligible/Optional
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Student Conservation Association, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The SCA strives to cultivate a work environment that encourages fairness, teamwork, and respect among all staff members and is committed to maintaining a work atmosphere where lifestyles may grow personally and professionally.