EMPLOYMENT
JOIN OUR TEAM
Telluride Academy staff members are the heart and soul of our organization! They are the creative engines behind every interaction, experience and outcome we strive to achieve with our students. They are educators, guides, adventurers of the highest order, and the architects of Telluride Academy’s highly reputable outdoor and enrichment programs. Our team of instructors, specialists and interns represent a diverse collection of passionate individuals that come together to contribute to a high-energy and dynamic youth program that explores the southwest and beyond. Our success relies on collaboration, problem-solving and a ton of enthusiasm! We believe in working hard and playing harder and that a good day on the job is filled with equal parts discovery and dirt. If you are an expert at finding the perfect balance between silliness and safety, free play and focused instruction, then we would love to meet you!
CURRENT OPENINGS
Field Instructor In-Training (Seasonal, 11 Weeks)
Reports To: Program Director
Salary: $15–$17/hour DOE
Start your journey in outdoor education as a Field Instructor In-Training with Telluride Academy. This entry-level role is perfect for individuals aged 16+ who are eager to develop leadership skills while supporting our adventure and educational programs. You’ll work alongside experienced Field Instructors to create fun, safe, and educational experiences for youth in the stunning landscapes of Telluride.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist with outdoor activities like hiking, climbing, mountain biking, and crafts.
- Support logistics, including gear prep, meal setup, and activity breakdowns.
- Foster teamwork and teach environmental stewardship principles.
- Build rapport with students and assist with group management.
- Participate in training and receive mentorship for skill development.
Qualifications:
- At least 16 years old by the start of employment.
- CPR and Wilderness First Aid (WFA) required; WFR preferred.
- Enthusiasm for outdoor education and working with youth.
Working Conditions:
Be prepared to work outdoors in varying weather and high-altitude environments. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and stay physically active throughout the day.
Schedule:
Flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, and weekends, with travel to remote locations as needed.
Student Support Specialist
Seasonal | $20–$25/hr | June–August (Part-time prep work begins in April)
Telluride Academy is seeking a compassionate and experienced Student Support Specialist to help ensure a safe, inclusive, and enriching summer for all campers. This position supports students with unique behavioral, developmental, or emotional needs—such as those with Autism, ADHD, or sensory challenges—and works closely with staff and families to create successful camp experiences.
Key responsibilities include:
Connecting with families ahead of summer to understand camper needs
Training and supporting Inclusion Buddies and staff on behavioral strategies
Acting as a one-on-one “Buddy” when needed during daily and overnight programs
Providing on-site guidance and problem-solving throughout the summer
Leading Inclusion-focused workshops during staff training
Ideal candidates have experience working with neurodiverse youth, strong communication skills, and a passion for inclusive outdoor education. A background in education, special education, psychology, or recreational therapy is preferred. Flexibility, empathy, and the ability to adapt in an active, outdoor camp setting are essential.
Join us in the San Juan Mountains and help make a lasting impact on every child’s summer adventure.
Intern (Seasonal, 10 Weeks)
Reports To: Program Manager
Salary: $15–$17/hour DOE
Join Telluride Academy as an Intern and gain hands-on experience in supporting our summer programs. This role is ideal for organized, motivated individuals passionate about outdoor education and youth programming. You’ll assist with program logistics, gear management, and administrative tasks while contributing to the success of our camps.
Key Responsibilities:
- Facilitate Monday registration and assist with parent drop-offs/pick-ups.
- Manage and inventory outdoor gear and branded merchandise.
- Support office tasks, including data entry, phone calls, and event prep.
- Assist with van unloading, classroom cleaning, and end-of-week gear storage.
- Maintain a clean and organized workspace.
Qualifications:
- At least 14 years old by the start of employment.
- Strong work ethic, organizational skills, and attention to detail.
- Positive attitude and willingness to collaborate.
- Interest in outdoor education and youth programs.
Working Conditions:
Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks like cleaning, bending, and hiking.
Schedule:
Season runs June 9 – August 15, Monday through Thursday, with flexible hours (10–20 hours/week). Some Fridays for staff meetings and training may be required.
Hiring
policy
Telluride Academy (TA) is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth and pregnancy-related conditions), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws and ordinances. Telluride Academy’s management team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, access to facilities and programs, and general treatment during employment.
TA will endeavor to make a reasonable accommodation of an otherwise qualified applicant or employee related to an individual’s physical or mental disability, sincerely held religious beliefs and practices, and/or any other reason required by applicable law unless doing so would impose an undue hardship upon TA’s business operations.