Overview
Position Duration: May 24 – September 30*, 2023
*flexible end date, but full duration preferred
The Backcountry Interpretive Guide leads full-day and half-day backcountry treks in the mountain trails surrounding the Vail, Colorado area in the Sawatch and Gore Ranges of the Colorado Rockies. With a focus on nature interpretation, these hikes inspire and encourage conservation and stewardship of public lands. The Backcountry Interpretive Guide works primarily with adults.
Position Overview
This seasonal, full-time position works closely with the Community Science & Hiking Coordinator and Community Programs Director to continue to expand Walking Mountains’ backcountry hiking and interpretive programs. This position will play an important front-line educator/guide role and responsibilities will vary throughout the term and could include involvement in other aspects of the Community Programs department.
Responsibilities Include:
Formal and Informal Interpretation and Instruction
• Plan, prepare, and present a variety of creative high content level programs
o Extended hiking treks and educational outings
o Contract and special request programs
o Community science (aka citizen science) field trips and trainings
• Provide high-quality customer service and educational experiences in backcountry settings
• Actively research and expand knowledge of general Rocky Mountain ecology and specialized fields such as botany and ornithology
• Other program planning, teaching responsibilities, and special projects, as assigned
Program Administration
• Work in partnership with Community Science & Hiking Coordinator and Community Programs Director to create program marketing plans
• Use program registration software to monitor and communicate with program participants
• Collect photos and other marketing content and assist in the creation of program and destination-specific marketing materials
• Document and record participation numbers and use data on public lands
Compensation and Benefits:
• $450/weekly stipend
• Shared housing in Avon, CO
Qualifications:
• BA/BS in science, interpretation, education, or an environmental science-related field (or equivalent experience)
• Current Wilderness First Responder and CPR certifications or able to obtain prior to start date
Required Skills:
See full list at the application website.
About Walking Mountains Science Center
Founded in 1998 with their base in Avon, Colorado, Walking Mountains Science Center’s mission is to awaken a sense of wonder and inspire environmental stewardship and sustainability through natural science education. As part of a dynamic organization, you will join a team of like-minded, spirited colleagues who are passionate about the mission of Walking Mountains and the impact it’s making in the community. For more information, please visit our website at www.walkingmountains.org.
