Field Instructor Job Telluride Colorado USA,Education / Teaching

Location: Telluride

Overview

Job Title: Field Instructor

Reports To: Program Director

FSLA Status: Seasonal, non-exempt

Salary: DOE - Starts at $20 per hour

Position Summary: Field Instructors at Telluride Academy plan, facilitate, and lead outdoor experiential education programs for students ages 5–17. They introduce students to adventure-based and creative activities including hiking, backpacking, camping, SUP’ing, horseriding, rock climbing, arts and crafts, and more, while helping them build confidence and connection in the outdoors. Field Instructors uphold strong risk-management practices and ensure all participants feel welcomed, supported, and appropriately challenged.

Responsibilities

Program Facilitation: Plan and implement daily programming aligned with established itineraries, ensuring activities meet organizational goals and program objectives.
Program Facilitation: Deliver age-appropriate activities for all program levels, with particular emphasis on the needs of early childhood participants (ages 5–8).
Program Facilitation: Facilitate a range of activities, including field games, day hiking, camping, kayaking, rock climbing, arts and crafts, and more.
Program Facilitation: Adapt programming and leadership style to meet the developmental, behavioral, and social needs of participants depending on their age group.
Program Facilitation: Adjust plans as needed to respond to changes in weather, participant needs, or other unforeseen circumstances while maintaining program integrity.
Program Facilitation: Demonstrate flexibility and problem-solving skills to ensure smooth and effective program delivery.
Program Facilitation: Work closely and collaboratively with co-instructors and other staff members to deliver high-quality programs throughout the summer.
Program Facilitation: Organize and manage weekly field reports, manage program logistics, and oversee program budgets as assigned.
Program Facilitation: Teach Leave No Trace (LNT) principles and foster a culture of environmental stewardship among participants.
Program Facilitation: Promote leadership, teamwork, and personal development through guided experiences and discussions.
Program Facilitation: Provide weekly program and co-instructor feedback in a timely manner that is constructive, professional, and respectful.
Program Facilitation: Attend Friday staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
Program Facilitation: Perform any additional duties as assigned or deemed necessary by administration to support the organization's goals and operations.

Student/Camper Engagement: Cultivate a supportive and inclusive environment by encouraging teamwork, communication, and mutual respect among participants.
Student/Camper Engagement: Serve as a role model, mentor, and guide for participants, helping them build confidence, resilience, and interpersonal skills.
Student/Camper Engagement: Set clear expectations and model respectful, positive behavior.
Student/Camper Engagement: Proactively address and de-escalate conflicts or challenges in a calm, constructive manner.
Student/Camper Engagement: Utilize effective behavior management and positive discipline techniques to maintain group cohesion and engagement.

Safety & Risk Management

Safety &

Risk Management:

Ensure a safe, fun, and educational environment for all participants by following safety protocols and best practices.
Safety &

Risk Management:

Actively supervise campers to ensure their safety and well-being.
Safety &

Risk Management:

Respond to minor incidents or emergencies in the field.

Qualifications/Skillsets

Committed, dependable, professional, and organized.
Teachable, coachable, reflective, and leadership potential - desire to grow professionally as a leader.
Demonstrated selflessness in previous roles being a “team player”.
Knowledge and enthusiasm for outdoor/experiential education.
Previous experience and/or enthusiasm for working with children ages 5-17 years old.
Strong communication skills with administrators, co-workers, campers, and parents. Willingness to provide and receive feedback constructively and respectfully.
Ability to be present and cell phone-free while at work.
Current Wilderness First…