What is the Summer Youth Trail Crew?
The Summer Youth Trail Crew (SYTC) is your ticket to an incredible summer job! Get PAID to work outdoors with a team of fellow students for eight weeks, learning hands-on skills in trail building and maintenance across Santa Cruz's beautiful parks and open spaces.
Since 2017, we've partnered with the City of Santa Cruz Parks & Recreation Department to offer this unique opportunity to local students. No prior experience needed - just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn!
Fill out our interest form here.
Program Details
· When: 8 weeks, June-August
· Schedule: Monday-Friday, 30 hours per week
· Pay: Competitive hourly wage
· Eligibility: High school students ages 16+
· Requirements: No experience necessary - we'll train you!
· Application deadline: Applications open in April
Why Participate?
Get paid to work outdoors this summer while building an impressive resume! The Summer Youth Trail Crew offers:
· EARN MONEY while gaining valuable work experience
· BUILD YOUR RESUME with real-world skills employers want
· WORK OUTSIDE instead of being stuck indoors all summer
· MAKE FRIENDS with other crew members who share your interests
· LEARN PRACTICAL SKILLS like operating tools and identifying local plants
· BE PART OF SOMETHING MEANINGFUL by improving trails your community uses
· NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED - we'll teach you everything!
· BOOST COLLEGE APPLICATIONS with unique leadership experience
Don't waste your summer on a boring job! Join our crew to have fun, make a difference, and gain skills that will help you stand out to future employers and colleges.
What You'll Do
· Build and maintain trails throughout Santa Cruz County
· Learn to use professional trail-building tools
· Work alongside experienced trail professionals
· Participate in conservation projects
· Discover hidden parts of Santa Cruz you've never seen before
· Get in shape while doing meaningful work
What Past Crew Members Say
"My favorite project was building the cattle fence at Moore Creek because it was something I had never done before." – Brandon, 2024 Crew Member
"I learned all of the thought that goes into building a trail. There are so many things to look out for." – Maddie, 2024 Crew Member
"This was my first job experience. The cooperation with peers and a boss was a new thing to get used to." – Nathan, 2024 Crew Member
Frequently Asked Questions
· Do I need to be physically fit? You should be comfortable working outdoors, but we'll train you and build your stamina gradually.
· What should I bring? We provide all tools and safety equipment. You'll just need appropriate clothing, lunch, and water.
· How do I get to work sites? Transportation is provided from a central meeting location.
· Can I get school credit? Many schools offer credit for summer work experience - check with your counselor!
Some of our favorite Summer Youth Trail Crew photos
Limited Spots Available!
Only 5 positions are available each summer and competition is tough. Submit your interest form today to be first in line when applications open!