Spring Outdoor Education Instructor

Job Title: Outdoor Education Program Instructor

Compensation: $620/week, 5% increase for those fluent in both English and Spanish

Housing: Yes

Dates of Employment: April 20, 2026 - May 22, 2026

Reporting to: Outdoor Education Program Manager; Director of Programs

Direct Reports: None

Position Summary:

Outdoor Education Program Instructors lead groups of up to 13 students through hands-on science curriculum, team building challenges, leadership development, and social-emotional learning experiences. This role blends teaching, facilitation, and outdoor leadership and requires creativity, adaptability, and a love for working with students in the outdoors.

Beyond instruction, Instructors play an essential role in  programming by supporting meals, evening programs and campus operations. Work is completed independently and collaboratively with supervisors and fellow staff, with opportunities to grow as an educator, outdoor leader, and member of a close-knit community.

Key Responsibilities:

Student Supervision & Program Delivery

• Independently manage and teach a group of up to 13 K–12 students
• Review lesson plans and deliver appropriate environmental education curricula
• Facilitate team building, leadership, and social-emotional learning activities
• Create and maintain an inclusive learning environment for students with diverse backgrounds and learning abilities
• Manage student safety by following all health, safety, and risk management procedures

Program Operations & Logistics

• Prepare materials and execute lesson plans for each program
• Support evening programs, meal set-up and clean-up, campus cleaning, and on-call responsibilities
• Participate in staff meetings and trainings as assigned
• Assist with off-site and camping-based programs, including 3–5 day trips at locations around Colorado

Qualifications

Skills 

• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including days, nights, and weekends
• Interest in, respect for, and ability to work with students from diverse backgrounds
• Proven ability to creatively implement science education curricula
• Strong classroom and group management skills in a variety of settings
• Adaptability, creativity, and flexibility while managing children in dynamic environments
• Strong work ethic and motivation to contribute positively to the KSS community
• Ability to multitask and manage a high-volume workload in a fast-paced environment
• Customer service mindset with creative problem-solving skills
• Ability to support a wide variety of programs and activities
• Commitment to upholding all KSS policies and procedures
• Preferred: Spanish fluency

Education, Experience and Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree, Associate’s degree, or 6 months of college coursework plus 3 months of teaching experience
• Minimum of 3 months teaching experience in an outdoor or classroom setting
• Current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) and CPR certifications; WFR preferred
• Must be 20 years of age or older with a minimum of 4 years driving experience, a valid driver’s license, and an excellent driving record
• Ability to pass a comprehensive background check
• Computer proficiency, including experience with Microsoft Office 365, Google Suite, Slack, and the ability to learn new software
• Preferred: Experience facilitating overnight camping trips

Physical Requirements 

• Able to work a majority of the time outside at high altitude in varying conditions including uneven and slick terrain and unpredictable weather and situations. 
• Physically able to assist participants with recreation equipment during activities.
• Able to lift a minimum of 75 lbs. with assistance.
• Dexterity, auditory and visual acuity to operate computers and phones or mobile devices.
• Auditory and visual acuity to interact with guests, students, clients on a daily basis.
• Able to successfully manage multiple, high priority tasks in a fast-paced and often times crowded and noisy environment.

Keystone Science School: Who We Are

Keystone Science School (KSS) ignites curiosity and critical thinking through hands-on, nature-based learning. Nestled at 9,200 feet in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, our 23-acre campus serves as a hub for immersive, inquiry-driven experiences. Since 1976, we have combined outdoor adventure with STEM education, empowering students, teachers, and communities. Our programs—including summer camps, school-based learning, and outdoor education—promote scientific exploration, leadership, and environmental stewardship. With log-style dorms, a dining hall, an outdoor amphitheater, and an observatory, KSS provides an inspiring setting for discovery.

Benefits for Seasonal Staff 

At KSS, our staff are essential to our mission. We are proud to offer rewarding benefits including professional development opportunities and those listed below. 

• Free meals and housing
• Paid Sick Time 
• Paid Holidays
• Access to medical, dental, and vision benefits after four months of employment.
• Eligibility for a 401K after 1,000 hours worked annually.
• Sick time, EAP (Employee Assistance Program), and FAMLI (Family and Medical Leave Insurance) are offered.
• Discounts to outdoor retailers and discounted ski pass opportunities.

Work Schedule and Environment

This is a full-time, seasonal position requiring a flexible schedule, including days, evenings, nights, and weekends. Typical work hours are approximately 40 hours per week and may include: Monday–Friday, 9:00 am–5:30 pm, or Split shifts from 7:30 am–11:30 am and 4:30 pm–8:30 pm

Staff may be required to stay overnight in dorms with students and participate in off-site camping trips lasting 3–5 days.

Program Instructors work closely with teammates in shared indoor and outdoor spaces. Noise levels vary seasonally and with program activity. This role includes travel to off-site program locations; transportation is typically provided, though staff may occasionally use personal vehicles within Summit County.