Piscataquis Youth Educator

APPALACHIAN MOUNTAIN CLUB • Greenville, ME

5d • $18 - $18 • Onsite

About The Position

The Piscataquis Youth Educator leads educational programs and outdoor trips for school and youth groups in grades K–12, along with occasional trips for families and adults. The role delivers hands-on, nature-based learning in and around Greenville, Maine, integrating topics such as climate change, forest and watershed ecology, map and compass, geology, weather and climate, outdoor skills, community building, and leadership development. The educator plans and teaches programs both in the field and at schools, and acts as a guide, risk manager, learning facilitator, and interpretive resource for participants and guests.

This is a long-term seasonal position scheduled from January 4, 2027, to October 29, 2027. The position requires frequent backcountry travel, work in physically and mentally demanding conditions, and the ability to lead programs in varied weather. The educator works independently and collaboratively with AMC Maine education staff and other departments, and supports program logistics and equipment management.

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience leading student or youth groups in the backcountry.
• Experiential teaching experience.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and ability to work with youth from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences.
• Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with co-leaders.
• Ability to create an emotionally safe and inclusive learning environment, foster positive group culture, and build healthy rapport with youth.
• Wilderness First Aid and CPR certification, or ability to obtain certification before starting employment.
• Bachelor’s degree with coursework in natural sciences, experiential education, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• Ability to hike 6–8 miles per day over uneven terrain while carrying a backpack and other equipment weighing up to 40 pounds, in all weather conditions.
• Willingness to work long hours in mentally and physically demanding conditions.
• Satisfactory driving record and background check, as verified by state record check.
• Annual criminal background record check is required for employees working in programs or facilities serving children, disabled persons, or the elderly; employment is contingent on satisfactory results.

Nice To Haves

• Wilderness First Responder certification is preferred.
• Age 21 or older and ability to obtain DOT medical clearance to drive vehicles are strongly preferred.
• Registered Maine Guide certification, or willingness to earn it.

Responsibilities

• Lead and facilitate single-day and multiday programs for youth and families, including backpacking, hiking, paddling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing trips.
• Implement thematic, place-based environmental education, leadership, and community-building lesson plans suited to diverse participants.
• Create and foster an inclusive group culture and learning environment for participants and coworkers.
• Prioritize participant safety and manage risk in backcountry settings by assessing environmental and human factors and making decisions that support the group and individuals.
• Provide wilderness medical care.
• Model responsible outdoor behavior and Leave No Trace ethics.
• Work independently or collaboratively on curriculum development, teaching tools, and other logistical projects.
• Collaborate across AMC departments.
• Perform program logistics, including issuing, collecting, cleaning, and maintaining gear; preparing teaching supplies; ordering and organizing food; and assisting with gear and supply inventories.
• Travel to AMC lodges and become familiar with their operations.
• Drive 12-passenger vans carrying participants.
• Plan and teach programs in the field and at schools.

Benefits

• Dorm-style room for $75 per week, with meals included.
• Insurance available for positions lasting at least six months and working more than 32 hours per week.
• Voluntary 403(b) contribution.
• Earn up to 10 days of paid earned time, depending on length of service.
• 30% discount on AMC merchandise.
• Free annual AMC membership.
• Four free nights at AMC locations.
• Prodeals discounts on equipment and gear.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Mid Level