Re: [Philmont]: Philmont staff questions

Do they have to commit to working the entire summer? If so, is a break allowed? I assume there is a contract to sign?
--Not necessarily. There is a contract to be signed, but they are always flexible, especially when it comes to school-related obligations. Time off is generally not a problem to get.

What are the typical work schedules/days off for the 3 position types above? Are there backpacking opportunities for base camp staff? How often do the backcountry staff get to "civilization"?
--Ranger: each crew assignment is 4 days, with the 4th day being the hike-in day when they leave their crew (so it's almost a day off as the entire day is pretty mucn yours to do whatever you want). You will usually get a full day off after every 2 crews, though that varies depending upon staffing levels in the department. Base Camp: Depending on the particular department, the work schedule is 5 on/2 off or 4 on/3 off (the dining hall does a 4/3 rotation and that has worked really well). There are always backpacking opportunities for all staff on days off - Philmont will supply any necessary equipment, including trail food. Backcountry: they work 9 days on then 3 days off. They can either hike around the backcountry or goo base camp and then do whatever they want from there. You can either hike to the nearest turnaround and catch a bus back to base, or there are often vehicles (chaplains, commissary trucks, etc.) that make runs to the backcountry and it's easy to catch a ride back with them.

Do you audition for the singing/musical instrument staff spots in the backcountry where the campfires are held?
--I dont't believe so, but any experience is definitely helpful.

What is the pay like?
--It's been a few years since I've worked there, but the starting salary in 2000 was somewhere around $725 per month with all room and board included. Pay has always been a big issue because Philmont is trying to recruit and retain high-quality staff. In 1997, the starting pay was a little over $500, so you can be sure it's gone up since 2000.

I believe your meals are covered, but what about on days off?
--Meals are covered every day, including days off. As I said earlier, trail food is available for those who go into the backcountry on their days off. Otherwise, the dining hall in base camp is available (and the staff meals are actually very good).

Anything else they would find interesting?
--Just be prepared for the one of the best summers of their lives. Having a car is helpful - even though it's Philmont, a break is nice once in a while. However, there are always plenty of rides availble to Cimarron, Taos or Raton (or further...). All base camp/Ranger housing is in shared 8x10 platform tents - they're not too bad and they do have electricity and storage lockers. Bringing a fan would be a good idea as they do heat up during the day. Showers and laundry are available a short walk away.

I hope this helps...

Brian Gannon
Philmont Ranger 1997-2000

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Received on Mon Nov 17 17:28:09 2003