Trail Experience Designer

Job Description

Job Description

Mendocino Railway is the owner/operator of freight and passenger railroads including the California Western Railroad / Skunk Train which operates between Fort Bragg and Willits, California.

The Skunk Train is looking for outgoing, upbeat individuals who enjoy creating memorable experiences for our guests. We’re seeking a visionary Trail Experience Designer to lead the creation of an interactive forest trail reimagined for the majestic redwoods of Northern California. This immersive trail will blend playful engineering, environmental storytelling, and sensory engagement to delight families, hikers, and nature lovers of all ages.

This is a full-time position working throughout the week including weekends and holidays and requires a pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including but not limited to)

Trail Concept Development

• Design a multi-station trail experience that integrates natural materials, kinetic play elements (e.g., wooden ball runs, pulleys, ramps), and redwood forest ecology.
• Incorporate storytelling elements that honor the redwoods, local history, and conservation efforts.

Interactive Station Design

• Create 10–20 play stations using sustainable materials and low-impact construction.
• Prototype mechanisms (e.g., zip lines, levers, water-powered tracks) that move a custom wooden ball through the trail.

Site Planning & Safety

• Conduct site assessments to identify suitable terrain, access points, and safety considerations.
• Ensure ADA accessibility where feasible and design for multi-age engagement.

Production Oversight

• Source materials and oversee fabrication of trail elements.
• Manage installation teams and coordinate with environmental monitors to minimize ecological disruption.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• Proven experience in experiential design, landscape architecture, play design, or environmental art.
• Strong understanding of sustainable materials and low-impact construction.
• Creative engineering or maker skills (woodworking, kinetic sculpture, etc.).
• Familiarity with California redwood ecosystems and local history.
• Experience working with parks, nonprofits, or public art installations a plus.
• Passion for nature-based play, environmental education, and community storytelling.
• Excellent collaboration and project management skills.
• Ability to prototype and test interactive mechanisms.
• Ability to use the Microsoft Suite of products.

• Team-player attitude with the ability to demonstrate and foster positive collaboration and relationship building within and outside of the business.
• Ability to mentor and coach team members to deliver exceptional service.

• Strong organizational, communication, problem-solving, and guest-service skills.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, holidays, and special events.
• Ability to frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to stoop/bend/kneel/crouch/crawl/balance/climb and work in confined areas.

BENEFITS

• Healthcare insurance including medical, dental, and vision 
• 401(k)
• Holiday pay and Paid time off
• Other company perks and discounts