Junior Outdoor Recreation Professional

The Opportunity

McElhanney is seeking a Junior Outdoor Recreation Professional to join our Trails team. This is an opportunity to build your career in trail planning, design, assessment, and development while contributing to projects across Canada and occasionally internationally.

While this role is rooted in outdoor recreation, up to 90% of your time will be computer-based, turning field observations and data into reports, maps, plans, permit applications, presentations, and other project deliverables.

This role is ideal for a strong technical writer and strategic thinker with an interest in mapping, data, and sustainable trails. You’ll work alongside our six-person Trails team and other experts while building your skills across a variety of projects.

Location & Travel: You must be able to work from our Canmore office at least four days per month, with flexibility to work remotely for the remainder of the month.

Travel is required for field work across Canada and occasionally internationally. The selected candidate must be comfortable travelling for up to two weeks at a time.

Deadline to apply: November 6, 2026, 11:59pm MT (The deadline displayed above is the same in Eastern Time)

What You’ll Do

• Write, edit, and format technical documents, including inventory and assessment reports, trail master plans, permit applications, presentations, RFPs, and procurement documents.
• Support trail inventory, assessment, planning, design, and construction activities.
• Collect, manage, and interpret spatial and field data and create digital and PDF maps.
• Apply sustainable trail principles, including consideration of grades, widths, terrain, turn radii, and other trail features.
• Complete field work in varied and sometimes challenging terrain using methods such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, or OHVs.
• Travel for extended field assignments, which may include weekends, holidays, and 10+ hour field days.

What You’ll Bring

• Strong technical writing, editing, and communication skills.
• A degree or diploma, preferably in applied science, biology, planning, business, or a related field.
• Comfort working with mapping technology, databases, and other computer-based tools.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to organize and interpret field data.
• A valid Class 5 driver’s licence, or one in progress.
• Ability to travel and work in physically demanding outdoor environments.

Nice to Haves

• Experience with GIS, AutoCAD, or other mapping and design software.
• Experience with tender/procurement documents or construction inspection.
• Exposure to planning or community engagement.
• Previous trail planning, design, construction, maintenance, or assessment experience.

What Can We Offer You?

The salary range for this position is $60,000 - $85,000 per annum. McElhanney offers fair compensation that is commensurate with the individual’s education, experience, skills, and professional qualifications. The posted base salary/wage range is representative of the required level of qualifications and experience for the position as noted in the job posting. The salary offered will be based on the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate.

• Comprehensive Benefits: Maternity and parental leave top up program, health and dental coverage, RRSP matching, and Employee & Family Assistance Program.
• Safe & Inclusive Workplace: A culture of respect and inclusion for all.
• Compensation: Attractive total compensation package including a generous bonus plan.
• Professional Development: Reimbursement for dues, educational assistance, mentorship program, workshops, and committee involvement.
• Career Progression: Support and mentorship to shape a career path that fits your goals.
• Relocation Support: Financial assistance if applicable.

This role is designated as a safety sensitive position.

Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

If this is the opportunity for you, apply now or visit www.mcelhanney.com/careers to learn more. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.