Outdoor Field Instructor

Outdoor Field Instructor Posted by Experience Learning on 02/17/2026 Job Basics Industry Sector: Bike, Outdoor Job Categories: Camp Staff & Counselors, Outdoor Education Company Type: Events, Recreation, Service State: WV City: Circleville Country: United States Required Experience: 0 - 1 year Contact Name: Katrina Weyland Business Phone: 3046062322 Job Type: Seasonal Full Time Salary: $65 - $115/day Required to Relocate: Yes Required to Travel: Employee May Telecommute: No Job Seeker Must Live Within: Job Description & Requirements Location: Spruce Knob Mountain Center – Circleville, WV Dates: June 1 – October 31, 2026 Housing: Shared housing provided Job Summary Experience Learning is hiring Outdoor Field Instructors to lead immersive, adventure-based outdoor education programs for youth ages 7–18. This is one position with two distinct seasons , offering a dynamic blend of expedition-style summer camp programming and school-based wilderness field courses. Instructors live and work on-site at our remote, high-mountain campus near Spruce Knob and lead 1–8 day programs focused on leadership, teamwork, environmental stewardship, and personal growth through hands-on learning in wild places. Seasonal Structure This position follows a two-season rhythm that keeps the work fresh, dynamic, and adventurous all season long. During the Summer Camp Season (June–August) , instructors dive into the heart of Mountain Stewards Summer Camp—leading 6-day, expedition-style adventures filled with backpacking, canoeing, campfires, dorm life, and daily moments of growth as campers build confidence, leadership, and a love for the outdoors. As the season shifts into the Field Program Season (September–October) , instructors transition into leading Wilderness Learning courses for schools and community groups, guiding students on 1–8 day residential and backcountry programs that blend outdoor skills, natural science, leadership development, and meaningful exploration at Spruce Knob and wild places throughout West Virginia and the Mid-Atlantic. Core Responsibilities Instruction & Group Leadership Create and maintain a physically and emotionally safe learning environment for all students, campers, guests, and staff Prepare and deliver hands-on, experiential, and inquiry-based lessons in outdoor and residential settings Lead 1–8 day programs, including: Multi-day backpacking trips (4–6 days) in mountainous terrain Canoe expeditions (up to 6 days) Dorm-based and front-country programs Teach and facilitate activities such as hiking, backpacking, canoeing, caving, rock climbing, orienteering, outdoor cooking, camp craft, wilderness survival, and natural science lessons (forest ecology, stream ecology, geology) Adapt instruction to meet program themes and group needs, including leadership development, communication, teamwork, diversity, environmental stewardship, and creative problem-solving Risk Management & Student Care Implement and model strong risk management practices at all times Administer first aid and respond appropriately to emergencies Lead groups in varying weather conditions and on uneven, mountainous terrain while carrying required loads Operations & Community Responsibilities Prepare, cook, and serve meals for students, campers, and visiting groups with minimal supervision Prepare gear and facilities before programs and clean, organize, and maintain them afterward Assist with general facility upkeep as needed, including basic repairs, carpentry, vehicle support, and troubleshooting Maintain a professional, welcoming demeanor when interacting with students, guests, partners, and staff Work flexible hours, including evenings and some weekends, and be on-call during portions of the season Live cooperatively in shared housing, contributing positively to a supportive and professional staff community Physical Requirements Ability to hike up to 10 miles per day on uneven and mountainous terrain Ability to carry a backpack weighing approximately 35–55 pounds Comfort working, teaching, and living outdoors in inclement weather and remote environments Required Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent life experience Must be 21 years of age or older Wilderness First Aid (WFA) and CPR/AED certification (required or ability to obtain before start date) Valid driver’s license Effective communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills Teaching experience (formal or informal) Ability to confidently lead groups in remote outdoor settings Positive attitude, determination, and strong work ethic Desire to work with young people from diverse social and econ