Americorps Mentor

Position Purpose 

In the heart of Grand Teton National Park Teton Science Schools’ Field Education program transforms the outdoors into a dynamic classroom. The AmeriCorps Mentor provides direct mentorship, guidance, and instructional feedback to AmeriCorps members, helping them grow as educators. Additionally, the Mentor will devote their time to supporting logistical operations of the TSS AmeriCorps Program 

Field teaching is a core component of this role, which also serves as a Lead Instructor– bridging the gap between field educators, AmeriCorps Members, and program coordinator staff to ensure cohesive, high-quality programming and mentorship. The AmeriCorps Mentor brings experience in science content and teaching pedagogy and models professionalism, instructional excellence, and risk management in outdoor settings

Qualifications: 

● Strong commitment to fostering a safe, engaging, and positive learning environment 

● Minimum 1.5 years of experience in hands-on, inquiry-based field science or environmental education, preferably in a residential outdoor setting 

● Prior AmeriCorps service or experience with AmeriCorps programming preferred 

● Proven experience mentoring instructors and providing feedback on instruction and lesson planning 

● Strong risk management skills for outdoor education in variable weather conditions 

● Knowledge of science and natural history in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem or willingness to engage in self-directed study 

● Experience co-teaching and collaborating within a teaching team 

● Valid Wilderness First Responder certification 

● Valid driver’s license 

● Minimum 21 years of age 

● Must pass a criminal history background check and driving record review prior to the start date 

Responsibilities 

Teaching & Mentoring 

● Design and lead training sessions for AmeriCorps members 

● Facilitate weekly community meetings for the AmeriCorps team 

● Observe, assess, and provide feedback on AmeriCorps members’ teaching development through field observations, lesson reviews, and debrief sessions 

● Serve as the primary mentor for AmeriCorps members, supporting their professional growth through goal-setting, individual meetings, and community-building initiatives 

● Develop and implement thematic, place-based field science curricula for multi-day outdoor learning experiences, incorporating NGSS and state science standards 

● Lead field excursions (7-13 participants) focusing on: 

○ Local natural history exploration 

○ Inquiry-based learning and field research 

○ Stewardship and citizen science projects 

○ Leadership development and teamwork exercises, including high/low ropes elements

○ Risk management and backcountry travel (hiking, camping, snowshoeing, skiing, canoeing) 

○ Transferring learning experiences back to participants’ home communities 

AmeriCorps Program Administration 

● Lead recruitment, interviews, hiring, background checks, and onboarding for new AmeriCorps members 

● Maintain accurate AmeriCorps documentation, including hour logs and service records, ensuring compliance with grant requirements 

● Support AmeriCorps members in designing and executing service projects within TSS and the broader community 

Field Education Support 

● Share expertise in science content and teaching pedagogy while modeling professional, transformative place-based education 

● Serve as a mentor and liaison between instructors and program coordinators 

● Assist with residential campus operations, including lodge maintenance, teaching space preparation, and equipment management 

● Provide additional support across Field Education and other TSS programs as needed 

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements 

● Programming primarily based out of Jackson Campus but may be based out of any campus of TSS; may include outreach programming in other towns or states; or on camping trips in front- or back country settings. 

● Stretches of time outdoors in all weather, including extreme temperatures and arid conditions 

● Able to drive 15 passenger vans and mini-buses for extended periods (up to 10 hours per day) 

● Able to carry a backpack of 20+ lbs for 8 hours a day over uneven terrain 

Compensation & Benefits 

● Salary: $40,000/year 

● Health, dental, and vision insurance 

● Paid time off: 30 vacation days, 11 holidays, 10 sick days (some PTO mandatory to be taken in November/December; remaining vacation can be scheduled based on program needs.) 

● $500 annually for TSS programming 

● Pro deals from outdoor brands 

● Limited employee housing available 

● Proximity to Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Parks 

This job description is not meant to state or imply that these are the only duties performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their manager in compliance with federal and state laws. 

Application Deadline: April 18, 2025 – Please submit Cover Letter and Resume

This job description is not meant to state or imply that these are the only duties performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their manager in compliance with federal and state laws.