Outdoor Education Specialist

Families and Youth Innovations Plus•Las Cruces, NM

3d•$17 - $21

About The Position

The Outdoor Education Specialist works with youth participating in FYI+'s Outdoor Equity Project. The role leads outdoor programming and activities that build outdoor skills, confidence, and connection to nature while supporting youth well-being and expanding outdoor access for families who face barriers to these experiences. The Specialist collaborates with FYI+ program staff, behavioral health teams, and community partners—including parks and land management agencies, schools, and youth-serving organizations—to serve youth and families in need. Work takes place primarily outdoors on trails, at parks, and at outdoor program sites, as well as at FYI+ program locations. The position requires travel throughout Doña Ana County, including rural locations such as Anthony and the Hatch Valley.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required, with 4 years of experience.
Must pass a CYFD Criminal Records Check.
Maintain full certification in CPR/First Aid.
Maintain a valid New Mexico Driver's License.
Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder certification required, or must be obtained within 90 days of hire.
Maintain full certification in CPI.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in outdoor recreation, environmental education, youth development, or a related field preferred; equivalent education and direct experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred.

Responsibilities

Plan, prepare, and lead outdoor activities and programming for youth, including hikes, camping trips, nature walks, and environmental education sessions.
Develop age-appropriate, culturally responsive curricula and activity plans that build outdoor skills, environmental awareness, and connection to nature.
Ensure participant safety during outdoor outings through risk assessment, first aid readiness, weather monitoring, and compliance with FYI+ safety protocols.
Coordinate program logistics, including transportation, gear and equipment, permits, and site selection.
Maintain outdoor equipment and gear inventory in good working condition.
Manage inventory and organization of the Outdoor Legacy Project Closet, including equipment check-in and check-out.
Build relationships with youth participants and families to encourage consistent engagement and a sense of belonging in outdoor spaces.
Collaborate with FYI+ program staff, navigators, and behavioral health teams to align outdoor programming with participants' broader goals and needs.
Track attendance, participation, and program outcomes; maintain accurate records for internal use and funder reporting.
Identify and maintain partnerships with local parks, land management agencies, and outdoor organizations to expand access to sites and resources.
Support outreach and recruitment to engage youth and families who have historically faced barriers to outdoor recreation.
Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development as required.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of the Outdoor Equity Project and FYI+'s mission.