Junior Field Instructor na Telluride Academy

Job Title: Junior Field Instructor

Reports To: Program Director

FSLA Status: Seasonal, non-exempt

Salary: Starts at $19 per hour DOE

Position Summary:

Junior Field Instructors at Telluride Academy (TA) support and assist in the facilitation of outdoor experiential education programs for students ages 5-17. Working alongside experienced Field Instructors, Junior Field Instructors help facilitate 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 fostering positive outcomes for all students is essential.

This role is ideal for individuals who are developing their skills in outdoor education, group management, behavior management, and risk management, and 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 younger participants (ages 5–8).
• 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 in a timely manner that is 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.
• Utilize 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, and 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.
• Ability to be present, attentive, and cell phone–free during program hours.
• Current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) and CPR certification (or ability to obtain prior to staff training in June).
• Must pass a criminal background check (CBI/FBI) and driving background check. 
• No van driving required (must be 21+ for driving eligibility).
• Physical ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs, remain active for up to 8 hours a day, and navigate rugged mountain terrain.
• At least 18 years of age by the start of employment.

Working Conditions:

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

Additional Requirements:

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

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 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.