Junior Field Instructor

Telluride Academy; Telluride (CO); On-site; USD 22,000 - 31,000; Part time

Job summary

Telluride Academy seeks a Junior Field Instructor to support outdoor programs for ages 5–14. You will assist senior instructors in planning and leading activities across hiking, camping, kayaking, and crafts, while modeling safety and Leave No Trace.

This seasonal, non-exempt role runs June 7 through August 13, 2027, offering a starting wage of $19 per hour. Applicants should be 18+, able to pass background checks, and hold or obtain WFA/CPR before staff training.

Qualifications

• Committed, dependable, professional, organized, and eager to learn in a team-based environment.
• Teachable, coachable, and reflective, with a desire to grow as a professional educator and leader.
• Enthusiasm for outdoor education and working with children.
• Some prior experience with youth is a plus, or a strong interest in gaining experience in this area.
• Current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) and CPR certification, or ability to obtain prior to staff training in June.
• Able to pass a criminal background check (CBI/FBI).
• Physical ability to lift up to 45 lbs and be active for up to 8 hours.

Responsibilities

• Support the planning and delivery of daily programming aligned with established itineraries and program goals.
• Assist in facilitating age-appropriate activities for diverse program levels, ages 5–14.
• Assist in leading activities including field games, day hiking, camping, kayaking, SUP'ing, rock climbing, and arts and crafts.
• Adapt programming to meet the developmental, behavioral, and social needs of participants.
• Collaborate with Field Instructors to ensure smooth program delivery and safety.
• Model and teach Leave No Trace principles and environmental stewardship.
• Provide weekly program and co-instructor feedback; attend staff meetings and trainings.
• Support organizational goals and assist with additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Outdoor leadership

Group management

Communication

Interpersonal skills

WFA CPR certification

Safety awareness

Dependability

Job description

TELLURIDE ACADEMY

Connecting youth with nature through outdoor adventure, creativity, and environmental stewardship.

Job Title: Junior Field Instructor

Reports To: Program Director

FLSA Status: Seasonal, non-exempt

Dates: June 7 - August 13, 2027

Compensation: DOE - Starting at $19.00/hour

Position Summary

Junior Field Instructors at Telluride Academy (TA) support and assist in facilitating outdoor experiential education programs for students ages 5–14. Working alongside experienced Field Instructors, they help lead hiking, camping, SUP'ing, rock climbing, arts and crafts, and other activities that inspire creativity, confidence, and environmental awareness. A strong commitment to risk management and to fostering positive outcomes for all students is essential.

This role is ideal for individuals developing their skills in outdoor education, group management, behavior management, and risk management, who are excited to grow as leaders within a supportive, hands-on learning environment.

Duties and Responsibilities

Program Facilitation

• Support the planning and delivery of daily programming aligned with established itineraries and program goals.
• Assist in facilitating age-appropriate activities for diverse program levels, particularly with elementary/middle-school aged participants (ages 5–14).
• Assist Field Instructors in leading activities including field games, day hiking, camping, kayaking, SUP'ing, rock climbing, arts and crafts, and more.
• Adapt programming and leadership style to meet the developmental, behavioral, and social needs of participants depending on their age group.
• Assist Field Instructors in adjusting plans as needed to respond to changes in weather, participant needs, or other unforeseen circumstances while maintaining program integrity.
• Collaborate closely with Field Instructors and staff to ensure smooth, effective, and engaging program delivery.
• Model and teach Leave No Trace (LNT) principles and foster a culture of environmental stewardship among participants.
• Provide weekly program and co-instructor feedback that is timely, constructive, professional, and respectful.
• Attend Friday staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.
• Support organizational goals and assist with additional duties as assigned by administration.

Student/Camper Engagement

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

Safety & Risk Management

• Actively monitor participant safety, following TA safety guidelines and protocols.
• Assist with the management of risk in outdoor settings under the guidance of senior staff.
• Assist in responding to minor incidents or emergencies, seeking support when needed.

Qualifications and Skillsets

• Committed, dependable, professional, organized, and eager to learn in a team-based environment.
• Teachable, coachable, and reflective, with a desire to grow as a professional educator and leader.
• Enthusiasm for outdoor education and working with children.
• Some prior experience working with youth is a plus, or a strong interest in gaining experience in this area.
• Basic knowledge of outdoor recreation activities (hiking, camping, kayaking, climbing, etc.) preferred but not required.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with co-workers, campers, and parents.
• Able to be present, attentive, and cell phone-free during program hours.
• Current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) and CPR certification, or the ability to obtain prior to staff training in June.
• Able to pass a criminal background check (CBI/FBI) and driving background check.
• Physical ability to lift and carry up to 45 lbs, remain active for up to 8 hours a day, and navigate rugged mountain terrain.
• At least 18 years old by the start of employment.

Working Conditions

• Able to work indoors or outdoors for prolonged periods across desert, mountain, river, lake, and alpine weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, and rain.
• Willing to work in remote, wilderness, or high-altitude environments with limited facilities.
• Comfortable with exposure to insects, wildlife, and natural elements as part of outdoor programming.
• Able to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and extended shifts, based on program needs.
• Able to travel to and from program locations, including remote trailheads or campgrounds.

Additional Requirements

• Proficient in leading group activities and providing instruction to diverse age groups.
• Able to swim and assist with water-based activities when required.
• Capable of physical tasks such as kneeling, bending, climbing, biking, hiking, and carrying equipment.

About Telluride Academy

Telluride Academy's mission is to connect youth with nature through outdoor adventure, creativity, and environmental stewardship. Based in the San Juan Mountains, Telluride Academy is Telluride's premier summer camp and has been inspiring youth through outdoor education and adventure for over 45 years. Join us in creating unforgettable memories for the next generation of adventurers!

Learn more at www.tellurideacademy.org.

Core Values

• Resilience
• Curiosity
• Responsibility
• Connection

Hiring Policy

Telluride Academy (TA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable laws.

TA will make reasonable accommodations for qualified applicants or employees with disabilities, sincerely held religious beliefs, or other legally protected reasons, unless doing so would cause undue hardship to the organization.