Field Instructor
Hearty Roots
Damariscotta, Maine
Job Type | Permanent |
Salary | $25 per hour |
Benefits | Compensation & Benefits 30-40 hours per week Hourly rate: $25 p/ hour, with the option to move to salary in 2026. Paid training and professional development, plus paid time off Health benefits available in 2026 Nature-rich work environment and meanin |
Experience | 2 - 6 years |
We are seeking an enthusiastic and adaptable Field Instructor to facilitate and manage meaningful outdoor experiences for children and teenagers. The ideal candidate is a passionate mentor and leader who values equity, emotional development, and the restorative powers of nature connection. The field instructor will work in school settings, after school outing clubs, lead seasonal vacation camps, and facilitate overnight camping trips.
Key Responsibilities
- Facilitate Youth Programs: Lead outdoor adventure activities, earth-based skill-building (e.g., fire-making, shelter-building, carving), and our signature social-emotional framework with small groups of youth.
- Curriculum Implementation: Integrate connection-focused and reflective practices into daily programming, fostering a safe and inclusive environment for youth and teens with varying abilities.
- Program Coordination: Manage logistics, supplies, safety protocols, and communications for sessions, school partnerships, and camp offerings.
- School and Community Engagement: Build relationships with school staff, families, and community partners to support youth participation and program impact.
- Overnight Trip Leadership: Plan and lead occasional overnight camping trips with appropriate risk management and engagement strategies.
- Team Collaboration: Work closely with fellow facilitators, volunteers, and leadership to evaluate program outcomes and support continuous improvement.
Qualifications
- Experience working with teenagers in outdoor or experiential education settings
- Familiarity with social-emotional learning and trauma-informed practices
- Strong leadership, group management, and communication skills
- Comfort with side-country settings and teaching of outdoor skills
- Ability to work flexible hours including occasional evenings, weekends, and overnights
- Wilderness First Aid (or willingness to obtain)
- Background check clearance required
Preferred Qualifications
- Degree or training in education, environmental studies, youth development, or a related field
- Experience working in school settings or with diverse youth populations
Compensation & Benefits
- 30-40 hours per week
- Hourly rate: $25 p/ hour, with the option to move to salary in 2026.
- Paid training and professional development, plus paid time off
- Health benefits available in 2026
- Nature-rich work environment and meaningful impact on youth
How to Apply: Please complete this form as an initial first step to express your interest.
When you apply, please indicate that you are responding to the posting on Conservation Job Board.
Category | Environmental Education, Outdoor Recreation |