Field Instructor In Training

TELLURIDE ACADEMY

Connecting youth with nature through outdoor adventure, creativity, and environmental stewardship.

Job Title: Field Instructor In Training

Reports To: Program Director

FLSA Status: Seasonal, 10-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.
• Provide weekly program and co-instructor feedback that is timely, constructive, professional, and respectful.
• Attend Friday staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 16 years old by the start of employment.
• Current CPR and Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification, or the ability to obtain prior to staff training in June. Wilderness First Responder (WFR) preferred.
• Able to pass a criminal background check (CBI/FBI), child abuse and neglect background check, and driving background check.
• Able to be present, attentive, and cell phone-free during program hours.

Working Conditions

• Able to work indoors or outdoors for prolonged periods across desert, mountain, river, lake, and alpine 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

• 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.

Why Telluride Academy

Working at TA means spending your summer outside in some of the most beautiful country in the West, with a team that takes the work seriously and still has a lot of fun doing it. We invest in our staff the same way we invest in our campers.

• Real growth. Our roles build on each other, from Intern and Field Instructor In Training through Junior Field Instructor, Field Instructor, specialist and leadership team positions. Many of our staff come back and take on more each summer.
• Training and mentorship. Every season starts with staff training. From there you get weekly feedback, one-on-one check-ins, and leaders who want to see you succeed.
• Variety you won't find elsewhere. Our programs run from alpine trails and high lakes to desert canyons and rivers. You'll lead hiking, camping, boating, climbing, art and more across the San Juans and the Four Corners region.
• A staff community that sticks. Our team is made up of educators, guides, artists and outdoor people who look out for each other on and off the trail.
• Work that matters. You'll help kids build confidence, resilience and a real connection to the outdoors, and you'll see it happen week to week.
• Perks that add up. Staff housing is available at cost, at the Big Billies apartments or at our staff house in Placerville (21+). We also offer gear pro deals, a staff scholarship program that covers certification costs, raises for returning staff, and an end-of-season bonus.

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.