Outdoor Field Instructor

Outdoor Field Instructor
Location: Spruce Knob Mountain Center – Circleville, WV
Dates: June 1 – October 31, 2026
Housing: Shared housing provided

Want a season that actually feels like an adventure? Trade the 9–5 for mountain views, campfires, and meaningful work with awesome people. Experience Learning is hiring Outdoor Field Instructors to spend the summer and fall living and working in the high mountains near Spruce Knob, leading outdoor experiences for youth ages 7–18. This is a hands-on role where you’ll build real leadership experience, grow your outdoor skills, and make an impact—all while living in a tight-knit community and spending most of your time outside.

A Season That Evolves With You

This job follows a two-season flow that keeps things exciting and full of variety:

Summer Camp Season (June–August) — Lead 6-day expedition-style trips with Mountain Stewards Summer Camp. Think backpacking through mountain terrain, canoeing, campfire cooking, dorm life, and mentoring campers as they build confidence and independence. Long days, big laughs, and unforgettable moments guaranteed.

Field Program Season (September–October) — Shift into leading school and group programs. Guide 1–8 day residential and backcountry courses that combine outdoor skills, natural science, and leadership development across West Virginia and the Mid-Atlantic. New groups, new challenges, and fresh experiences each week.

What You’ll Do

• Lead backpacking, canoeing, and residential outdoor programs

• Teach outdoor skills, teamwork, leadership, and environmental awareness

• Create safe, inclusive learning environments and manage risk in the field

• Cook meals, prep gear, and help keep programs running smoothly

• Live and work in a fun, supportive staff community in a remote setting

What You Bring

• Age 21+ with a degree or equivalent life experience

• Wilderness First Aid + CPR/AED (or ability to obtain)

• Experience working with youth and strong communication skills

• Ability to hike up to 10 miles daily and carry 35–55 lbs

• Positive energy, adaptability, and love for the outdoors

Bonus: WFR certification or prior outdoor education/expedition experience.

Pay & Perks

• $65–$105/day (typical starting range $80–$95/day)

• Shared housing provided

• Health leave (1 day/month worked)

• Outdoor industry pro deals + professional development

Why You’ll Love This Job

Build real-world skills, gain leadership experience, and spend a season doing something meaningful—while living in the mountains with a community of adventurous, like-minded people. If you want growth, purpose, and a story worth telling at the end of the season, this is it.