About this role
Job Title: Early Childhood Specialist
Reports To: Program Director
FLSA Status: Seasonal, non-exempt
Dates: June 7 - August 13, 2027
Compensation: DOE - Starting at $20.00/hour
Position Summary
Telluride Academy is looking for enthusiastic, imaginative, high-energy Early Childhood Specialists to lead our dynamic early childhood programs. These camps — primarily day camps, Monday through Thursday — are designed for our youngest explorers, ages 5–8, and offer an unforgettable mix of fun, discovery, and growth. If you're passionate about inspiring young minds and fostering early childhood development, this is your chance to make a difference, weaving outdoor education and nature adventures into every moment and helping spark a lifelong love of the outdoors.
Duties and Responsibilities
Program Facilitation
• Plan and implement daily programming for early childhood participants (ages 5–8) aligned with established itineraries, ensuring activities meet organizational goals and program objectives.
• Deliver age-appropriate activities, workshops, and lessons that inspire creativity, personal growth, and learning.
• Facilitate a range of activities, including field games, day hiking, camping, kayaking, rock climbing, arts and crafts, and more.
• Adjust plans as needed to respond to changes in weather, participant needs, or other unforeseen circumstances while maintaining program integrity.
• Demonstrate flexibility and problem-solving skills to ensure smooth, effective program delivery.
• Work closely and collaboratively with co-instructors and other staff to deliver high-quality programs throughout the summer.
• Organize and maintain weekly field reports, manage program logistics, and oversee program budgets as assigned.
• Teach Leave No Trace (LNT) principles and foster a culture of environmental stewardship among participants.
• Promote leadership, teamwork, and personal development through guided experiences and discussions.
• Perform other duties as assigned by administration to support the organization's goals and operations.
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.
• Use effective behavior management and positive discipline techniques to maintain group cohesion and engagement.
Safety & Risk Management
• Ensure a safe, fun, and educational environment for all participants by following safety protocols and best practices.
• Actively supervise campers to ensure their safety and well-being.
• Respond to minor incidents or emergencies in the field.
Qualifications
• At least 18 years old, with some experience working with youth or in outdoor recreation settings.
• A passion for working with young children in outdoor and experiential learning environments.
• Current CPR and Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification, or the ability to obtain prior to start. Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification preferred.
• Valid driver's license and ability to safely operate program vehicles, if applicable.
• Able to pass a criminal background check (CBI/FBI) and driving background check.
Working Conditions
• Able to work indoors or outdoors for prolonged periods in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, wind, and rain.
• Willing to work in remote, wilderness, or high-altitude environments with limited facilities.
• Comfortable with exposure to insects, wildlife, and natural elements as part of outdoor programming.
• Able to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and extended shifts, based on program needs.
• Able to travel to and from program locations, including remote trailheads or campgrounds.
Additional Requirements
• Able to safely lift and carry up to 45 lbs repeatedly throughout the workday.
• Able to maintain physical activity for up to 8–10 hours daily, including hiking and navigating rugged terrain.
• Able to lead group activities and provide instruction to diverse age groups.
• Communicate effectively with children, staff, and parents in a positive, professional manner.
• Able to swim and assist with water-based activities as needed.
About Telluride Academy
Telluride Academy's mission is to connect youth with nature through outdoor adventure, creativity, and environmental stewardship. 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 45 years. Join us in creating unforgettable memories for the next generation of adventurers!
Learn more at www.tellurideacademy.org.
Core Values
• Resilience
• Curiosity
• Responsibility
• Connection
Hiring Policy
Telluride Academy (TA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and 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 related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service or veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. This policy applies to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, access to facilities and programs, and general treatment during employment.
TA will make reasonable accommodations for an otherwise qualified applicant or employee related to a physical or mental disability, sincerely held religious beliefs and practices, or any other reason required by applicable law, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship on TA's operations. DOE - Starts at $20.00 per hour