Overview
SUMMARY
This position coordinates education programs at the Environmental Learning Center. Program Coordinators provide leadership for Institute programs, supervise Program Instructors at the Learning Center, and offer instructional support as necessary. This position will coordinate the logistics and delivery of the Mountain School program during the school year, and Family Getaways during the summer. They may also support other Learning Center programs from time to time. A successful candidate may hail from a variety of professional backgrounds but loves teaching, being outdoors, and is inspired to work with children.
COMPENSATION
This is a regular, full-time, non-exempt position subject to a winter furlough (unpaid) of one month.
The pay rate is $22.26 per hour
Overtime pay is 1.5x base pay and will occasionally be required.
Most weeks, coordinators will work 40 hours. Some weeks, especially around season transitions and school holidays, will have lighter hours.
BENEFITS include:
Sick leave: accrued at the rate of .04615 per hour
Vacation leave: 10 days estimated in first year, with increasing days in successive years
Paid holidays: 12 days maximum per year
Service days: 2 days per year
$300 annual stipend to participate in Institute programs
Ability to participate in Institute pro deals
Medical/dental insurance, long and short-term disability insurance, and tax-deferred annuity and contribution retirement plan
There are also opportunities for occasional attendance/participation at conferences or other professional development opportunities.
HOUSING
Subsidized housing available. Private rooms in shared houses are typically available. In some cases, roommates in shared rooms may be required.
Anticipated Start Date: As soon as possible
Anticipated Furlough: December 16, 2025 – January 15, 2026
Qualifications:
Current Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification, or higher
Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and ages
Ability to communicate kindly, clearly, and productively via email, in person, and over the phone
Strong customer service skills
Final offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check that may include employment history, national criminal background check, national sex offender registry search and a driving history check.
Required Skills:
Experience working successfully in teams
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
Ability to work and live in a small, rural community
Preferred Skills:
A bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in related field
Experience working or living in communities that are historically marginalized or underrepresented in the field of environmental education
Experience working at residential learning centers, camps, schools, or similar facilities
Previous supervisory experience
Possession of current driver’s license; acceptable driving record for past 3 years
Fluency in multiple languages, Spanish preference
About North Cascades Institute
North Cascades Institute's mission is to inspire environmental stewardship through transformative learning experiences in nature. Since 1986, we have helped connect people, nature and community through science, art, literature and the hands-on study of natural and cultural history. Our goal is to help people of all ages and backgrounds experience and enjoy the mountains, rivers, forests, people and wildlife of the Pacific Northwest – so all will care for and protect this special place.
North Cascades Institute is a respected leader among U.S. environmental education organizations, and we believe that sustainable communities are built on healthy environments, vibrant economies and social equity. The Institute is in sound financial health with a $4 million budget and strong reserves, and 15 four-star ratings with Charity Navigator for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency.
