Yellowstone Field Instructor Winter

Multiple openings available

Seasonal position - option to extend contract through September 2027

Applications will be reviewed and interviews scheduled on a rolling basis

Priority Final date to receive applications:
October 27th, 2026

EPIis an international non-profit dedicated to addressing critical conservation issues through field-based partnerships between local experts and middle & high school students. We engage adolescents from local communities and other regions in applied hands‑on science and conservation as they learn about and help protect threatened species and habitats. EPI’s programs in the U.S. and Latin America inspire the next generation of environmental leaders to engage in conservation efforts at home and around the world.

More information can be found logy project.org.

Field instructors in the Ecology Project International (EPI) Yellowstone Program work in teams of 2-3 to teach five- to nine-day field ecology courses for middle and high school students and adult learners in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Our programs introduce students to real-world scientific study, engage them in conservation service projects, and raise their cultural and ecological awareness.

During our Winter Ecology courses, students work with research partners (e.g., National Park Service) to collect data for wildlife research projects. Additionally, there is time dedicated to observing wildlife, exploring principles of snow science, and experiencing Yellowstone’s unique geology. Field instructors guide student exploration via relevant ecological and scientific process lessons while practicing responsible relationships to place. Groups stay in lodges in the Gardiner area under instructor supervision, with shared rooms and chore responsibilities.

An ideal candidate will demonstrate experience and skills in environmental education, field research, outdoor leadership, and/or the ecology, geography and cultures of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Instructors work as a team with support from program staff to plan, lead, and teach EPI’s curriculum. Instructors coordinate logistics and opportunities with partners, vendors, group chaperones, and participants to craft an inspirational and educational experience.

They are responsible for establishing and maintaining a safe physical and emotional learning environment. They are also responsible for participant well‑being for the entire duration of the course.

Because of the diversity of Yellowstone participants and EPI staff, field instructors should have the skills to address implicit bias and be culturally responsive in interactions with students and co-workers. Instructors are also encouraged to identify ways in which we can enhance inclusivity in planning and implementing our program.

• Provide and lead a positive experience for EPI participants in the field with up to two co-instructors.
• Plan and deliver quality experiential and environmental education lessons to diverse program participants.
• Create and foster an inclusive group culture and positive learning environment among participants and co-workers.
• Oversee and/or lead research activities in accordance with research protocols.
• Lead conservation service projects in accordance with risk management protocols.
• Effectively collaborate and communicate with teachers, chaperones, participants, partners, co‑instructors, and EPI staff.
• Give and receive quality feedback with co‑workers and supervisor, and integrate feedback into work.
• Safely drive EPI vehicles in winter conditions (between Missoula and Gardiner at the start and end of courses, then 2‑4 hours per day on course) while towing a trailer to transport participating students and gear.
• Supe…