Summer Instructor

Position Start Date: June 6, 2024

Position Description: 

Embark on an unforgettable journey as a Summer Instructor in the breathtaking landscapes of Jackson Hole, Wyoming! Join our dynamic team at Teton Science Schools, where you’ll be a key player in an engaging, collaborative environment. Your mission? To captivate and educate 1st-5th graders through nature- and play-based summer programs that foster curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for the great outdoors. 

As a vital part of our team, you’ll co-teach alongside passionate colleagues, orchestrating exhilarating adventures for groups of up to 13 campers each week. Picture this: leading fun, place-based lessons and activities that not only ensure safety, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship but also leave lasting imprints on young minds. 

Imagine guiding eager participants through the wonders of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, delving into nature themes backed by scientific research, and unleashing creativity through silly games, crafts, and cherished traditions. Your canvas will span Grand Teton National Park and other local gems, with additional days of exploration on our captivating Jackson Campus. 

If you are ready to inspire and infuse joy and knowledge into the summer days of young adventurers, while surrounded by the unparalleled beauty of Wyoming, join us in shaping a summer experience like no other! 

*Though TSS offers summer programs for several age groups, this position is specifically for 1st-5th grade* 

Responsibilities: 

• Establish and manage a positive culture in each participant group that is safe, respectful, curious, and fun. 
• Manage participants’ physical and emotional safety/risk; respond to emergencies as they arise according to TSS policies and support structures. 
• Interact with participants’ families with professionalism, empathy, and clear communication.
• Learn about the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and incorporate content into lessons.
• Collaborate with co-instructors and support peer mentoring through co-teaching, goal setting, joint lesson planning, and communicating feedback. 
• Co-create outlines of weekly teaching plans with co-educator ahead of time to distribute to participant families 
• Safely drive 15-passenger vans or mini-buses with trailers. 
• Have an opportunity to take kids front-country camping or canoeing in Grand Teton NP 
• Take care of yourself to stay motivated and successful through a long, challenging season. 

Qualifications: 

• Experience planning and engaging groups of children in hands-on educational programming. ○ This may include teaching/instructing, coaching, interpretation, or summer camp, ideally in an outdoor setting. 
• Strong interpersonal skills working with kids and adults; ability to be friendly, patient, fair, and communicate clearly. 
• Ability to respond to participants’ needs and behaviors with empathy and creative problem-solving.
• Desire to work as a collaborative team member and co-instructor; ability to give and receive feedback. 
• Ability to remain flexible, creative, and adaptable to environmental conditions, teachable moments, and the needs and interests of participants. 
• Desire to contribute to a safe, inclusive workplace and cultivate a sense of belonging for all.
• Ability to spend full days outdoors carrying a backpack in variable weather, including hiking, canoeing, and frontcountry camping. 
• Valid Wilderness First Responder certification. 
• Valid driver’s license. 
• Minimum of 21 years of age. 
• Successful applicants must pass a criminal history background check and driving record review prior to start date. 
• Desire to play outside, facilitate meaningful experiences, foster connection to nature, and get a little nerdy and silly with kids! 

Benefits: 

• Daily rate of 137.5/ day for first year summer instructors, $144/day for second year summer instructors 
• $500 reimbursement for WFR certification. (If obtained within 4 months of start date)
• Limited employee housing available at locally competitive rates. 
• Pro Deals from brand name outdoor companies. 
• Proximity to Jackson, Wyoming and Grand Teton and 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: March 15, 2024 

Application Requirements: Please submit the online application, which includes uploading a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references. Position questions can be directed to [email protected]. 

Teton Science Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, creed, or sexual orientation in any of its policies or programs.