Field Instructor In Training

Job Title: Field Instructor In-Training

Reports To: Program Director

FSLA Status: Seasonal, 11 week (flexible), non-exempt

Salary: $15-$17 per hour, depending on experience

Position Summary:Telluride Academy is seeking motivated and enthusiastic Field Instructor In-Training candidates to support our summer adventure and educational programs. This entry-level position is designed for individuals passionate about working with youth, gaining hands-on experience in outdoor education, and developing leadership skills. Field Instructors In-Training will assist Field Instructors in creating a safe, engaging, and educational environment for participants while immersing themselves in the stunning landscapes of Telluride and beyond. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals who are at least 16 years old, organized, team-oriented, willing to learn, and eager to grow into leadership roles in outdoor education.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Program Support:

• Assist Field Instructors with the facilitation of outdoor activities such as field games, rock climbing, hiking, SUP’ing, mountain biking, arts and crafts, and ecological exploration.
• Prepare equipment, supplies, and program materials under the guidance of Field Instructors and activity specialists.
• Support program logistics, including setup and breakdown of activities, meal preparation on overnight trips, gear loading/unloading, and maintaining a positive group atmosphere.
• Teach LNT (Leave No Trace) principles, environmental stewardship, and foster leadership and teamwork skills.
• Perform any additional duties as assigned or deemed necessary by administration to support the organization's goals and operations.

Student/Camper Engagement:

• Build rapport with students/campers, fostering a sense of community, teamwork, and fun.
• Serve as a role model for students by demonstrating enthusiasm, responsibility, and a love for the outdoors.
• Assist Field Instructors with behavior management.
• Facilitate team-building exercises and group activities.

Safety & Risk Management:

• Support the implementation of safety protocols during all activities and outings.
• Assist in monitoring group dynamics to ensure an inclusive and respectful environment.
• Help respond to minor incidents or emergencies under the supervision of Field Instructors.

Professional Development:

• Participate in pre-season training and ongoing mentorship to build skills in outdoor leadership and youth facilitation.
• Receive feedback from Field Instructors and program administrators to support personal growth.

Qualifications:

• Must be at least 16 years old by the start of employment.
• CPR and Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification (or ability to obtain prior to start). Wilderness First Responder (WFR) preferred.
• Must successfully pass background checks in accordance with organizational and state requirements.

Working Conditions:

• Work indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, and rain.

• Operate in remote, wilderness, or high-altitude environments with limited facilities.

• Exposure to natural elements, including insects and wildlife.

• Flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and extended shifts based on program needs.

• Travel to and from program locations, including remote trailheads or campgrounds.

Additional Requirements:

• Enthusiasm for outdoor adventure, environmental education, and working with youth.

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs safely and repeatedly during the workday.

• Maintain physical activity for up to 8–10 hours daily, including hiking and traversing rugged terrain.

• Communicate effectively with children, staff, and parents in a positive and professional manner.

• Swim and assist in water-based activities when needed.

About Telluride Academy:

Telluride Academy is committed to “Inspiring children and teens through experiential education that promotes physical activity, creative learning, environmental stewardship, responsibility to others and positive life choices." 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 40 years. Join us in creating unforgettable memories for the next generation of adventurers! Please www.tellurideacademy.org to learn more.  

Core Values:

• Enrichment through experiential education.
• Inclusion of children and teens from all backgrounds.
• Respect for individual uniqueness.
• Responsible environmental stewardship.

Hiring Policy:

Telluride Academy (TA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer that 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 characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws and ordinances. Telluride Academy's management team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, access to facilities and programs and general treatment during employment.

TA will endeavor to make a reasonable accommodation of an otherwise qualified applicant or employee related to an individual's: physical or mental disability; sincerely held religious beliefs and practices; and/or any other reason required by applicable law, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship upon TA's business operations.