About this role
Job Title: Field Instructor In-Training
Reports To: Program Director
FLSA Status: Seasonal, 11-week (flexible), non-exempt
Dates: June 7 - August 13, 2027
Compensation: DOE - Starting at $16.00/hour
Position Summary
Telluride Academy is looking for motivated, enthusiastic Field Instructor In-Training candidates to support our summer adventure and educational programs. This entry-level role is designed for individuals passionate about working with youth, gaining hands-on experience in outdoor education, and building leadership skills. Field Instructors In-Training assist Field Instructors and Junior 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 facilitating 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 Leave No Trace (LNT) principles and environmental stewardship, and foster leadership and teamwork skills.
• Perform other duties as assigned 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 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.
• Help monitor 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.
• Valid CPR and Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification, or the ability to obtain prior to start. Wilderness First Responder (WFR) preferred.
• Able to pass a criminal background check (CBI/FBI) and driving background check.
Working Conditions
• Work indoors and outdoors in varying 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.
• 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 traversing rugged terrain.
• Communicate effectively with children, staff, and parents in a positive, professional manner.
• Able to swim and assist with water-based activities when 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 $16.00 per hour