Summer Outdoor Field Leader

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 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.