Site Design and Community Engagement Fellow

Position Summary:

The Partnership for the National Trails System (PNTS) is a nonprofit that connects member not-for-profit trail organizations and Federal agency partners to further the protection, completion, and stewardship of the 32 National Scenic and Historic Trails within the National Trails System. The purpose of PNTS is to promote and support the efforts of National Scenic and Historic Trail organizations, to secure public and private resources and to serve as a collective voice for policy and action that supports National Scenic and Historic Trails.  We envision a thriving National Trails System that connects people and landscapes, commemorates diverse stories, and assures extraordinary experiences for all, now and in the future.

As part of fulfilling this mission and purpose, PNTS is hiring a Site Design and Community Engagement Fellow to work with communities on conceptual site designs for trail projects, and to develop and foster partnerships with local entities and individuals, building capacity for trail initiatives by bringing in human and financial resources, while implementing strategic priorities with the El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail Association (ElCaT). El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail (El Camino Real NHT) is a nationally recognized and protected cultural resource connecting nations, cultures, and places through time. El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail Association is the primary nonprofit managing partner for the El Camino NHT and seeks to protect the historic integrity of the trail, to educate and engage the public about its significance, and to promote resource development, interpretation, and tourism along its path.

The Site Design and Community Engagement Fellow will work closely with ElCaT’s Executive Director to support on-the-ground trail projects at select sites along the El Camino Real NHT, such as developing conceptual designs for retracement trails along portions of the Camino and/or site designs for a site on the trail. The Fellow will work locally towards physical trail projects that communities and other partners desire. In doing so, they will enlist communities and businesses in providing financial support to the project and to ElCaT for ongoing efforts at the locale. The Fellow’s work will also raise awareness about the significance of this National Historic Trail, while promoting its protection and development as a historic and economic resource. The Fellow’s work to enhance trail development will improve public access and increase public knowledge of and stewardship of the trail.

This is a 1 Year Fellowship from September 2026 through September 2027. 

This Fellowship position is for individuals that want to make an impact in trail development and protection, historic preservation, community engagement and education as well as build skills in landscape architecture, fundraising, graphic design, communications, and nonprofit management.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Work with ElCaT, partners and stakeholders to create conceptual designs for retracement trails and/or site enhancements, which will lead to physical trail developments.
• Work with local communities and partners to protect trail resources.
• Engage local communities and partners to promote the trail as a community resource and economic asset.
• Foster enhanced relationships with local communities and partners.
• Orchestrate non-federal financial support from city and county governments, local businesses, and the general public. 
• Attend both in-person and Zoom meetings with various partners and participate in committee meetings.
• Attend PNTS virtual training and networking events. 

Qualifications and Preferred Skills:

• Undergraduate degree in landscape architecture, urban planning, environmental design or a closely related field.
• Enthusiasm and strong interest in preserving and protecting history and trails.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Suite (in particular Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and possess the ability to work with partners of diverse backgrounds and viewpoints.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Demonstrated ability to self-motivate and complete tasks with minimal supervision.
• Ability to travel to ElCaT events and trail sites.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and ability to meet deadlines.

Desirable Skills:

• A valid driver’s license and ability to drive to points along the El Camino Real NHT.
• Knowledge of the National Trails System and National Trails System Act, or the ability to research and learn about these topics. 
• Experience working with diverse partners and stakeholders.
• Experience working with non-profit organizations.
• Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems Software.
• Familiarity with graphic design software.
• Experience with community outreach and organizing.

Supervision and Work Environment:

The Site Design and Community Engagement Fellow will work under the direct supervision of the Executive Director at the El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail Association. The Fellow’s work will be overseen and supported by the Partnership for the National Trail System’s Program Manager. 

The position will require 40 hours or more per week including travel for trail projects, and a hybrid remote/in-office work schedule.  

Compensation and Benefits:

• Salary: $40,000 for 1 year Fellowship
• $3,600 healthcare and home office stipend
• Educational opportunities including training in advocacy and policy, effective communications, and trail protection
• Opportunities to connect with a broad network of public lands and historic preservation professionals
• Opportunity to travel to ElCaT and PNTS events 
• 11 paid holidays per year and paid sick leave

EOE Statement: The Partnership for the National Trails System provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or other protected status.