Fall Program Instructor

North Cascades Institute • Diablo, WA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

This position supports education programs at the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) during the fall program season. This includes Mountain School, North Cascades Institute’s 5th grade overnight outdoor school program, as well as various weekend adult and family programs. Program Instructors deliver hands-on, nature-based education in the North Cascades ecosystem and support program operations while living and working in a remote mountain setting. A successful candidate may hail from a variety of professional backgrounds but loves teaching, being outdoors, and is inspired to work with children. Multiple positions are available. The dates of employment are September 8 - November 22, 2026. The position is based at the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center (ELC) on the shore of Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park. Mountain School is a nationally recognized, residential environmental education program serving approximately 3,000 students annually. During their three-day, two-night experience, 5th grade students hike under towering trees, explore terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, and learn about the natural and cultural history of the region through lessons aligned with Next Generation Science Standards. Weekend ELC-Based Programs include Conferences and Retreats, where instructors support activities by teaching short programs, serving as a site host, and engaging with guests. Events range from medical training to scientific conferences to family reunions. Base Camps are educational weekend retreats for individuals, families, or anyone who wants to learn about and explore the North Cascades, where instructors host and teach short programs.

Requirements

• Experience teaching or leading elementary and/or middle school youth
• Flexibility, strong judgment, and ability to work independently and on a team
• Ability to live and work in a remote community
• Current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification by start date, valid for full term of employment
• Availability for evening and weekend work as needed
• Successful completion of a background check, which may include employment history, a national criminal background check, sex offender registry search, and a driving history check

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with teaching science concepts in outdoor settings
• Experience working with individuals from underrepresented communities
• Spanish language proficiency
• Knowledge of the North Cascades natural and cultural history

Responsibilities

• Lead trail groups on short hikes and deliver natural and cultural history lessons
• Supervise and support students in a residential setting, including mealtimes and evening activities
• Participate in training and follow organizational risk management protocols
• Support program logistics, facilities, and other team needs as assigned

Benefits

• Sick leave - accrued at the rate of .04615 per hour
• Vacation leave - accrued at the rate of .01925 per hour
• Paid holidays - 2 days estimated through November 22
• $110 per month health care stipend to be paid in the first pay period following completion of a 21-day probationary period
• Option to defer compensation as a pre-tax deferral in our retirement plan
• Ability to participate in Institute pro deals

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed