Field Instructor/Lead Instructor

Organization: Teton Science Schools Reports To: Head of Field education
position Dates: January 7 – approx Mid-November 2027 Classification: Exempt
Certification Required: Wilderness First Responder, Adult & Child CPR, AED
Work Location: Jackson Campus, Kelly Campus, Murie Ranch, and field sites throughout the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem

Position Purpose

The Field Education (FE) Instructor team engages participants of all ages in transformative, place-based education throughout Jackson Hole, Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, the Bridger-Teton National Forest, and throughout Wyoming and the intermountain west. Participants are typically in grades 5–8, though programs also serve younger elementary students through older adult learners. FE Instructors and Lead Instructors create learner-centered experiences that connect participants to place, inspire leadership, and advance field science practices. These roles are critical to our mission as educational partners of Grand Teton National Park and ambassadors of Teton Science Schools.

Lead Instructors bring a depth of teaching experience and additionally support instructor mentorship, curriculum development, and program systems. Together, Field Instructors and Lead Instructors form a collaborative team that ensures high-quality programming, operational excellence, and exceptional student experiences.

Primary Responsibilities

• Facilitate Outdoor Learning: Lead groups of 10–13 participants, often with a co-educator, in inquiry-based, place-based field science and leadership experiences. Lessons are facilitated while traveling on cross-country skis and snowshoes in winter and through hiking, canoeing, and camping in summer. Programs typically span 4–7 days, include evening facilitation, and follow non-traditional schedules, working weekends, with varied days off.
• Promote Social-Emotional Growth: Build a positive group culture, facilitate teamwork and communication activities (including Challenge Course high and low elements), and support participants’ physical and emotional safety.
• Curriculum & Instruction: Develop and implement thematic, standards-aligned science curriculum that advances field science practices, connects participants to place, and supports learner-centered experiences. Deliver culturally relevant, inclusive content that connects to students’ backgrounds and perspectives. Adapt lessons to student interests, teacher requests, and environmental conditions.
• Risk Management: Maintain participant safety through effective risk management; drive 15-passenger vans and respond to emergencies in alignment with TSS policies.
• Outreach & Travel: Represent Teton Science Schools as an educational ambassador at local and regional outreach programs, school visits, and community events.
• Operational Support: Assist with mealtimes, cleaning, and maintenance of lodges, teaching spaces, and program equipment.
• Self & Team Development: Practice self-care, participate in professional development, give and receive feedback, and contribute to a collaborative team culture.

Lead Instructor Additional Responsibilities

• Mentorship & Educator Development: Co-teach with instructors and AmeriCorps members, provide field observations, facilitate weekly debriefs, and support lesson planning.
• Program Systems Support: Collaborate with Program Coordinators on hosting weeks, logistics, curriculum development, and administrative tasks.
• Focus Areas: Take leadership on defined areas such as camping systems, gear areas, or other identified departmental needs.

Qualifications

Field Instructor Minimum:

• At least one season of place-based outdoor teaching experience
• Background in science (education, ecology, natural resources, or related field)
• Experience in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (preferred)
• Spanish language skills (preferred)

Lead Instructor Minimum:

• At least one year of place-based outdoor teaching experience and demonstrated leadership skills
• Background in science (education, ecology, natural resources, or related field)
• Experience in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (preferred)
• Spanish language skills (preferred)

For Both Roles:

• Experience managing risk and leading groups in variable outdoor conditions
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work with diverse participants and colleagues
• Commitment to creating inclusive, equitable, and safe learning environments
• Valid Wilderness First Responder certification and Driver’s License by start date
• Minimum of 21 years of age; must pass background check and driving record review
• Ability to spend full days outdoors carrying a backpack in variable weather; Ability to hike up to 7 miles on uneven terrain, work flexible hours, and adapt to variable program schedules

Pay & Benefits

Daily Pay Structure

Instructors are paid a daily rate rather than an hourly wage. This reflects the full scope of responsibilities required to deliver high-quality programs, regardless of the exact number of hours worked on a given day. A typical field day often runs closer to 9 hours, and some days may be longer or shorter depending on program needs. Daily pay is not tied to a specific time window but covers the full range of responsibilities, including: 

• Instructional Hours: Leading programs with participants (generally 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM)
• Program Support: Preparing, cleaning up, and maintaining teaching and lodging spaces
• Meal Hosting: Facilitating meals (approximately 90 min per shift)
• Debriefs: Participating in program quality and risk management debriefs
• Planning & Preparation: Curriculum development, lesson planning, and logistical preparation
• Community Engagement: Supporting community events and organizational gatherings
• Other Duties as Assigned: Contributions that ensure smooth program operations and team success