Yellowstone Assistant Instructor

Ecology Project International (EPI) is hiring assistant field instructors to help deliver five- to nine-day field summer ecology courses for middle and high school students in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (late April through mid-August). Upon successful completion of a summer season, assistant instructors will be considered for a position as a field instructor for the 2023 winter and summer seasons.

Our programs introduce students to real-world scientific study, engage them in conservation service projects, and raise their cultural and ecological awareness. During Yellowstone summer courses, students work with research partners (e.g., National Park Service) to collect data for wildlife research projects and participate in a hands-on conservation service project with partners like B Bar Ranch or National Parks Conservation Association. Additionally, there is time dedicated to observing wildlife and experiencing Yellowstone’s unique geology and whitewater rafting. Field staff guide student exploration via relevant ecology and scientific process lessons while engaging them in the practice of Leave No Trace and taking advantage of teachable moments.

Assistant field instructor positions at EPI Yellowstone provide opportunities for aspiring outdoor educators to learn, practice, and develop the fundamental skills necessary for a successful career in this field. Assistant instructors benefit from real-world experience delivering the best educational and field experience possible to EPI Yellowstone participants with other members of the instructional team. Under the supervision of instructors and program staff, assistant instructors develop their skills in group leadership, risk management, logistics, experiential teaching techniques, teamwork and group dynamics, and ecology field research.

As a member of a three-person field team, assistant instructors guide students in the preparation of meals in the field, maintain EPI field equipment, transport participants, lead students in leadership games/activities, and support field instructors in delivering curriculum. As the season progresses, assistant instructors will deliver increasingly complex ecology and science curriculum to students.

Assistant Instructor Responsibilities:

• Drive EPI vehicles and tow a trailer to transport participating students and gear.
• Supervise group cooking and camping chores.
• Effectively manage logistics before, during, and after each course.
• Create and foster an inclusive group culture and learning environment among participants and co-workers.
• Understand, model, monitor, and enforce EPI policies and protocols.
• Assist in managing logistical challenges and emergencies on course.
• Maintain clear & consistent communication with chaperones, participants, partners, instructors, and EPI staff.
• Assist with lesson design and facilitation, as discussed with fellow members of the instructional team.
• Deliver curriculum and lead designated activities effectively, utilizing EPI educational techniques.
• Support accurate field research data collection.
• Complete data entry of student and chaperone evaluation data.
• Maintain effective self-care during extended trips and throughout the length of the season
• Give and receive quality feedback with co-workers and supervisor, and integrate feedback into work.
• Demonstrate growth throughout the season in core outdoor education responsibilities including group leadership, risk management, experiential teaching techniques, and logistics.
• Other duties as assigned.

How to apply:

Submit application materials here: ecologyproject.org/employment

Questions? Contact Sarah Wood, Yellowstone Program Coordinator: sarah@ecologyprject.org, 406-218-2605