Summer Program Instructor (seasonal)
About The Position
This position supports education programs at the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) during the summer program season. Summers are spent delivering a variety of adult, youth, and family programs based at and around the Learning Center. 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 and adults alike. Multiple positions are available. Position Dates and Location Season dates: June 10 (or as soon as possible) – September 6, 2026. The position is based at the North Cascades Environmental Learning Center (ELC) on the shore of Diablo Lake in the North Cascades National Park Service Complex. Summer Programs Family Getaways - Summer camp for families and friends. Instructors host and teach a variety of engaging activities for all ages including: day hikes, nature-based activities, natural history lessons, paddling in our big canoes, and campfire programs. Base Camps - Educational retreats for individuals, families, friends, or anyone who is looking to learn about and explore the North Cascades. Instructors host and teach short programs. Conferences and Retreats - Events range from medical training to scientific conferences to family reunions. Instructors support these activities by teaching short programs, leading canoe outings, and engaging with guests to help NCI reach a broader audience.
Requirements
- Experience teaching or leading programs for participants of all ages
- 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
- Final offer of employment is contingent upon the 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 hikes of up to four miles and canoe programs in our big canoes.
- Deliver natural and cultural history lessons for multigenerational audiences.
- Provide excellent customer service, including supervising 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 September 6
- $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
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
