Outdoor Adventure Instructor (Seasonal)

New York City Outward Bound Schools; New York (NY); On-site; USD 27,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

NYC Outward Bound Schools in New York City is seeking an Outdoor Adventure Instructor to lead students on outdoor courses, including hiking, low ropes, belaying on rock walls, and team-building, at locations in Fishkill, NY and across NYC.

The role involves overnight and single-day programs, planning components, adapting activities for diverse youth, and ensuring a safe, engaging learning environment. Per diem employment with no guaranteed hours, with HQ in Long Island City.

Responsibilities

• Support course planning efforts, including the development of educational and

Job description

Season:Current through December 19, 2026

Compensation: $176 daily

If you have experience or a strong desire to facilitate youth programs, a commitment to diversity and inclusion, and enjoy collaborative work, join us to create unforgettable experiences for young individuals at stunning outdoor locations and vibrant city settings.

ABOUT NYC OUTWARD BOUND SCHOOLS

Founded in 1987, NYC Outward Bound Schools is a nonprofit organization that partners with more than 100 public schools across NYC to engage students in equitable, immersive and joyful learning that prepares them to thrive in community, college and career. Our unique approach to programming focuses on adventurous learning - daring exploration, real-world engagement, and meaningful challenge - whether in school, local communities, or the outdoors. In schools, we coach teachers and school leaders to implement Crew, our signature advisory structure that supports student connection and belonging, and Instruction for Deeper Learning in the classroom. Outdoors, whether in the city or upstate at our wilderness basecamp, we deliver adventure programming to students, helping them realize that they can do hard things, and develop leadership skills like collaboration and initiative that transfer to the academic classroom. In all spaces where we work, we support students to be co-creators of their own learning and growth, in environments where their voices are heard and valued. Every day, we are proving that transformation and innovation can happen within a public school system, and that with truly equitable schools, all students - regardless of background or circumstance - are capable of achieving at high levels.

Role Summary:

The Outdoor Adventure Instructor position at NYC Outward Bound Schools leads students on outdoor adventure courses including hiking, low ropes courses, belaying support on rock climbing walls, and team-building programs at a remote location in Fishkill, NY and various locations across the five boroughs in NYC. During overnight and single day programs, Instructors plan components of outdoor adventure courses, facilitate adventurous learning experiences, adapt activities based on students' needs, and ensure a safe and exciting learning environment for all participating youth. This position requires both remote, overnight work on outdoor courses in NY State and urban adventures in NYC as well as work in the NYC Outward Bound Schools’ headquarters office in Long Island City (Queens). Transportation from our headquarters in Long Island City (Queens) to the Fishkill, NY site is provided, and limited staff housing is available at the Fishkill, NY location for those who need it. This role is designed as a per diem employee role and does not guarantee a set amount of work or time.

Essential Functions:

• Support course planning efforts, including the development of educational and