Outdoor Field Instructor

Do you believe in the power of wild places?

Hidden in the wild heart of Appalachia, Experience Learning is a 400-acre highland preserve located just below Spruce Knob — the highest peak in West Virginia — and surrounded by over a million acres of rugged backcountry in the Monongahela National Forest. Based at the Spruce Knob Mountain Center campus, Outdoor Field Instructors spend their days exploring wild landscapes, leading unforgettable adventures, and helping students discover what they’re truly capable of. Instructors guide 5th–12th grade students through immersive residential and backcountry field courses where learning happens on the trail, around the campfire, and deep in the wilderness. 

From backpacking remote terrain and navigating with map and compass to rock climbing, caving, canoeing, survival skills, and environmental exploration, every day brings new challenges and new discoveries. This role goes beyond outdoor instruction — it’s about building confidence, fostering leadership, strengthening teamwork, and helping students form a real connection with the natural world. A Season That Evolves With You

This job follows a two-season flow that keeps things exciting and full of variety:

Summer Camp Season (June–August) — Lead 6-day expedition-style trips with Mountain Stewards Summer Camp. Think backpacking through mountain terrain, canoeing, campfire cooking, dorm life, and mentoring campers as they build confidence and independence. Long days, big laughs, and unforgettable moments guaranteed.

Field Program Season (September–October) — Shift into leading school and group programs. Guide 1–8 day residential and backcountry courses that combine outdoor skills, natural science, and leadership development across West Virginia and the Mid-Atlantic. New groups, new challenges, and fresh experiences each week.

What You’ll Do

• Lead backpacking, canoeing, and residential outdoor programs
• Teach outdoor skills, teamwork, leadership, and environmental awareness
• Create safe, inclusive learning environments and manage risk in the field
• Cook meals, prep gear, and help keep programs running smoothly
• Live and work in a fun, supportive staff community in a remote setting

What You Bring

• Age 21+ with a degree or equivalent life experience
• Wilderness First Aid + CPR/AED (or ability to obtain)
• Experience working with youth and strong communication skills
• Ability to hike up to 10 miles daily and carry 35–55 lbs.
• Positive energy, adaptability, and love for the outdoors

Bonus: WFR certification or prior outdoor education/expedition experience.

Why You’ll Love This Job

Build real-world skills, gain leadership experience, and spend a season doing something meaningful—while living in the mountains with a community of adventurous, like-minded people. If you want growth, purpose, and a story worth telling at the end of the season, this is it.