Overview
Position Purpose
The Field Education (FE) Instructor team engages participants of all ages in transformative, place-based education throughout Jackson Hole, Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, the Bridger-Teton National Forest, and throughout Wyoming and the intermountain west. Participants are typically in grades 5–8, though programs also serve younger elementary students through older adult learners. FE Instructors and Lead Instructors create learner-centered experiences that connect participants to place, inspire leadership, and advance field science practices. These roles are critical to our mission as educational partners of Grand Teton National Park and ambassadors of Teton Science Schools.
Lead Instructors bring a depth of teaching experience and additionally support instructor mentorship, curriculum development, and program systems. Together, Field Instructors and Lead Instructors form a collaborative team that ensures high-quality programming, operational excellence, and exceptional student experiences.
Primary Responsibilities
Facilitate Outdoor Learning: Lead groups of 10–13 participants, often with a co-educator, in inquiry-based, place-based field science and leadership experiences. Lessons are facilitated while traveling on cross-country skis and snowshoes in winter and through hiking, canoeing, and camping in summer. Programs typically span 4–7 days, include evening facilitation, and follow non-traditional schedules, working weekends, with varied days off.
Promote Social-Emotional Growth: Build a positive group culture, facilitate teamwork and communication activities (including Challenge Course high and low elements), and support participants’ physical and emotional safety.
Curriculum & Instruction: Develop and implement thematic, standards-aligned science curriculum that advances field science practices, connects participants to place, and supports learner-centered experiences. Deliver culturally relevant, inclusive content that connects to students’ backgrounds and perspectives. Adapt lessons to student interests, teacher requests, and environmental conditions.
Risk Management: Maintain participant safety through effective risk management; drive 15-passenger vans and respond to emergencies in alignment with TSS policies.
Outreach & Travel: Represent Teton Science Schools as an educational ambassador at local and regional outreach programs, school visits, and community events.
Operational Support: Assist with mealtimes, cleaning, and maintenance of lodges, teaching spaces, and program equipment.
Self & Team Development: Practice self-care, participate in professional development, give and receive feedback, and contribute to a collaborative team culture.
Lead Instructor Additional Responsibilities
Mentorship & Educator Development: Co-teach with instructors and AmeriCorps members, provide field observations, facilitate weekly debriefs, and support lesson planning.
Program Systems Support: Collaborate with Program Coor
Qualifications:
Field Instructor Minimum:
At least one season of place-based outdoor teaching experience
Background in science (education, ecology, natural resources, or related field)
Experience in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (preferred)
Spanish language skills (preferred)
Lead Instructor Minimum:
At least one year of place-based outdoor teaching experience and demonstrated leadership skills
Background in science (education, ecology, natural resources, or related field)
Experience in the Greater Yellow
About Teton Science Schools
Since 1967, Teton Science Schools has connected people, place, and nature through education, engaging learners of all ages in meaningful, place-based experiences that inspire curiosity, leadership, and a deep sense of connection to the world around them.
