Organizational Mission: 

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy’s mission is to protect, manage, and advocate for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail.

Position Summary

The Visitor Center Representative will carry out daily operations for the Damascus Trail Center (DTC) and will report to the Senior Director of Visitor Engagement. This temporary position will engage and educate visitors to the A.T., the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, and nearby recreation areas. At times, the Visitor Center Representative may be responsible for daily operations with little to no support staff and will work directly with volunteers.  

This position is a part-time temporary position beginning on March 23, 2026, and concluding Aug 3, 2026. Weekly hours are not to exceed 25 per week. Weekend and holiday work is required.   

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

• Perform opening and closing procedures of the facility.
• Carry out daily reports and report items of significance to the Senior Director of Visitor Engagement.   
• Welcome all visitors by creating an inclusive and positive environment by providing excellent customer service.  
• Assist visitors by answering inquiries (in-person or phone), promote the A.T., ATC, and stewardship for outdoor recreation.
• Inspire visitors to donate or become a member of the ATC.
• Track visitor data in appropriate ATC database.
• Carry out membership and retail transactions.   
• Monitor retail and visitor information inventories. Restock as needed.  
• Assist visitors with incident reporting by following ATC’s incident reporting guidance.
• Keep the facilities (interior, exterior, and garage) in excellent condition. Follow the daily cleaning check list and instruct volunteers on daily cleaning.  
• Assist with visitor center events or activities including setup, breakdown, promotion, and logistics as needed.

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years or older.
• 3 + years' experience in a service industry, tourism, or hospitality career.
• Excellent interpersonal communication and public speaking skills.
• A high level of demonstrated professionalism in communications, especially verbal and electronic communications.
• Must be able to work alongside volunteers, provide guidance for daily tasks to volunteers, and be a supportive team member.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite and database management software.
• Ability to problem-solve and meet multiple deadlines.
• High degree of initiative and a team player.
• Demonstrable familiarity with Damascus, nearby recreation opportunities, and local offerings.   
• Preferred knowledge of regional trail systems and the Appalachian Trail.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Evening and weekend work is required. Working directly with the public.  
• Shared office environment with moderate noise level.
• Occasionally requires the ability to lift, carry, push, or move light to moderate weights up to 30 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Additional Information:

• Term Length: March 23, 2026 - August 3, 2026
• Hourly Rate: $16.00 - $17.00
• Location: Required to work in the Damascus Trail Visitor Center.
• Housing will not be provided. 

ATC Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

ATC encourages collaboration, flexibility, and fairness with all employees and volunteers to enable participation and contributions to their fullest potential.

We are committed to being an inclusive organization and recognize that a broad range of perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds contributes to an effective and successful organizational culture and mission.

ATC prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity and/or expression), national origin, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, political affiliation, union membership, or any other status protected by the laws and regulations in the locations where we operate.

ATC's Identity Statement