Wilderness Expedition Instructor - AWE Lead (Spring 2027)

athenian; Danville (CA); On-site; USD 8,400 - 9,400; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Complimentary meals on campus

Campus facilities access

Job summary

The Athenian School is seeking seasonal AWE Instructors for a 34.5-day contract in Death Valley National Park, with staff work dates March 7–April 10, 2027. Compensation ranges $8,400–$9,400 total stipend, commensurate with experience.

Responsibilities include co-instruction, risk management, and inclusive leadership for demanding wilderness courses, teaching travel systems, and upholding school values in remote settings.

Qualifications

• Current Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification.
• Experience managing risk and leading groups of teens on multi-day trips.
• Ability to teach core wilderness travel skills safely.

Responsibilities

• Co-instruct in pairs to manage technical components and lead groups safely through remote wilderness.
• Create an inclusive, equitable outdoor space and support diverse student populations.
• Meet students where they are and scaffold outdoor instruction to build community.
• Model democratic values and environmental stewardship in field settings.

Skills

Risk management

Team leadership

Mentorship

Adaptive mindset

Education

Wilderness First Responder (WFR)

Tools

Maps & compass navigation

Safe stove operations

Expedition backpacking systems

Tarp shelter setup

Job description

The Athenian School is seeking seasonal AWE Instructors for a 34.5-day contract in Death Valley National Park, with staff work dates March 7–April 10, 2027. Compensation ranges $8,400–$9,400 total stipend, commensurate with experience.

Responsibilities include co-instruction, risk management, and inclusive leadership for demanding wilderness courses, teaching travel systems, and upholding school values in remote settings.