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 (Seasonal, 11 Weeks)
Reports To: Program Director
Salary: $20–$25/hour or $750–$1,000+/week DOE
Join Telluride Academy as a Field Instructor, leading outdoor experiential education programs for youth ages 5–17. Facilitate activities like hiking, camping, rock climbing, and more while fostering teamwork, leadership, and environmental stewardship in the stunning landscapes of Telluride.
Key Responsibilities:
- Plan and lead age-appropriate activities aligned with program goals.
- Facilitate outdoor adventures, including field games, camping, and kayaking.
- Cultivate a supportive, inclusive, and fun environment for participants.
- Ensure participant safety by following risk management protocols.
- Teach Leave No Trace principles and promote personal growth.
Qualifications:
- At least 21 years old with experience in outdoor education and youth programs.
- CPR and Wilderness First Aid (WFA) required; ability to pass background checks.
- Strong communication, organization, and leadership skills.
- Physically able to lift 50 lbs, hike rugged terrain, and work outdoors for extended periods.
Working Conditions:
Work in diverse weather and wilderness settings with flexible hours. Must be comfortable with physical activity, insects, and wildlife.
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.
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.
Program Coordinator (Seasonal, 13 Weeks)
Reports To: Program Director
Salary: $20–$25/hour DOE
Join Telluride Academy as a Program Coordinator to manage logistics and operations for our summer programs. You’ll work closely with our Administrative Team, ensuring smooth program execution, supporting staff, and maintaining gear and schedules. This role is perfect for an organized multitasker with strong communication and leadership skills.
Key Responsibilities:
- Coordinate seasonal program logistics, gear, and activities.
- Support staff with schedules, materials, and operational needs.
- Maintain gear inventory and vehicle logistics.
- Act as a liaison for staff, students, and families.
- Provide administrative and field support as needed.
Qualifications:
- Current CPR and Wilderness First Aid (WFA) required; WFR preferred.
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
- Physical stamina to work outdoors and assist in dynamic activities.
Working Conditions:
Be ready to work flexible hours in diverse environments, including wilderness settings. Must be comfortable lifting up to 50 lbs and engaging in physical tasks like hiking and water-based activities.
Early Childhood Specialist
Early Childhood Specialist (Seasonal, 11 Weeks)
Reports To: Program Director
Salary: $20–$25/hour or $750–$1,000+/week DOE
Inspire the youngest explorers at Telluride Academy as an Early Childhood Specialist! Lead dynamic programs for children ages 5–8, combining outdoor adventures, creative activities, and early childhood development. Share your passion for nature while fostering teamwork, confidence, and a love for the outdoors.
Key Responsibilities:
- Plan and lead age-appropriate activities like hiking, crafts, and field games.
- Facilitate outdoor adventures while ensuring a safe and fun environment.
- Cultivate a supportive, inclusive atmosphere that inspires creativity and growth.
- Teach Leave No Trace principles and promote environmental stewardship.
- Adapt plans to weather, group needs, and unforeseen changes.
Qualifications:
- Passion for working with young children in outdoor learning settings.
- CPR and Wilderness First Aid (WFA) required; WFR preferred.
- Strong organizational and communication skills.
- Ability to lift 50 lbs and work actively for extended periods.
Working Conditions:
Be ready for flexible hours, including time outdoors in various weather and rugged environments.
Art Specialist (Seasonal, 12 Weeks)
Reports To: Program Director
Salary: $20–$25/hour DOE
Join Telluride Academy as an Art Specialist and inspire creativity in youth ages 5–14. Design and lead engaging, hands-on art projects in both classroom and outdoor settings. Collaborate with Field Instructors to align art activities with program themes, fostering imagination and an appreciation for the arts and the outdoors.
Key Responsibilities:
- Plan and lead age-appropriate art projects for up to three student groups daily.
- Manage art supplies, inventory, and budgets for creative, cost-effective projects.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe art space.
- Collaborate with instructors to align art activities with program goals.
- Facilitate an all-staff art activity during training and prepare for seasonal programs.
Qualifications:
- Passion for art education and working with youth.
- Experience designing and delivering creative art programs.
- Current CPR and Wilderness First Aid (WFA) required; WFR preferred.
- Strong organizational and decision-making skills.
Working Conditions:
Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather. Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and stay physically active for extended periods.
Schedule:
Art programs run Monday–Thursday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, with Fridays for planning and meetings. Pre-summer preparation begins in late May, and end-of-season inventory is 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.