Bilingual Field Instructor

Responsive recruiter

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Signing bonus Vision insurance Cal-Wood Mission & Philosophy

Cal-Wood Education Center is on a mission to facilitate positive nature experiences for all—especially those who haven't yet spent time in the mountains. Since 1982, Cal-Wood has provided residential environmental and outdoor education programs to hundreds of thousands of Coloradans at our 1,200-acre outdoor classroom located west of Boulder, Colorado. Through school programs, summer camps, and family camps, we provide access for kids and adults from underrepresented communities to have life-changing experiences outdoors.

We believe that no matter where you live or what language you speak, you deserve to feel safe and welcome outside. We strive to grow our programs so that more people from all walks of life can find a meaningful connection with nature.

Cal-Wood has received several national and local awards for our high-quality programs and service to linguistically diverse audiences. Our field instructors receive training in sheltered instruction and inclusive teaching practices to help them effectively engage all students—from Commerce City to Aurora to Boulder and beyond. Instructors provide dynamic, hands-on science education in the field so that all students can explore, learn, and see themselves as scientists.

Position Overview

Cal-Wood is seeking cheerful, adaptable applicants for an exciting and rewarding Field Instructor position. Field instructors work in our beautiful 1,200-acre outdoor classroom alongside a motivated team passionate about the outdoors, natural science, and education.

Instructors are responsible for providing a fun and educational experience for learning groups of 10–15 students by leading outdoor recreation activities and teaching environmental science lessons. Programs range from one-day visits to four-day overnight trips for local students of all ages, most often 4th–6th graders.

This position begins January 12, 2026 and runs through December 18, 2026, with the possibility of extending employment for additional seasons. Summer and winter responsibilities may include instructing summer camps or family camps, facilitating outdoor recreation activities such as fishing, archery, snowshoeing, and hiking with diverse groups, and assisting with trail, facility, educational material, and gear room maintenance.

• Schedule

Monday through Friday, with some evening and weekend shifts as needed

Average 40-hour work week, which may include office time or time helping with other programs.

Programs may require early mornings, evenings, and overnight presence for facilitation (note: instructors do not sleep in cabins with students)

Salary

$1,345.38 paid biweekly

Responsibilities:

• Lead a learning group of 10–15 students during each school’s visit; typical programs run 2–4 days with 4th–6th graders

Spend 4–8 hours per day, 3–5 days per week, leading programs outdoors in all seasons in the mountains of Colorado

• Design, teach, and evaluate environmental education programs aligned with local curriculum standards

Incorporate science, math, history, creative writing, art, and team-building into programs as requested by schools

• Lead large-group games, songs, skits, storytelling, and campfires to foster a fun, inclusive environment

• Facilitate 1–2 meals (breakfasts and/or dinners) and 1–2 evening programs (typically a night hike or campfire) each week

• Assist with cleaning and maintenance of program staff commons areas, educational materials, gear room, and staff office/lounge

• Help maintain a safe, comfortable, and welcoming environment by delivering water to field groups, building fires in lodges and warming huts, shoveling snow, etc.

• Participate in occasional field projects supporting forest fire mitigation, forest restoration, and trail/facilities maintenance

Note: Instructors do not sleep in cabins with students during school programs

Qualities & Qualifications

Bilingual (Spanish–English) strongly preferred

Individuals from underrepresented groups are encouraged to apply

High level of personal motivation, flexibility, and responsibility, with a consistently positive attitude

Bachelor’s degree in science, natural resources management, education, environmental education, or a related field

One or more years of teaching experience

Ability to work and live closely with a small, passionate instructional team (approximately 10–15 staff members)

Comfort living in a small mountain town approximately 20 minutes from Boulder, CO (on-site living not required if you already have housing)

Ability to pass background checks

Ability to hike 3–6 miles daily, lift up to 50 lbs for short periods (sometimes multiple times per day), and work outdoors in all weather conditions

Current First Aid/CPR certification or willingness to obtain certification required; Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certification is a plus

Compensation: $830.00 per week

ABOUT:

MISSION & VISION:

Cal-Wood's mission is to offer a unique outdoor educational experience to youth and adults. Our founding vision has guided our organization since 1982: to inspire a greater appreciation for the natural world; to offer environmental education to those who would not otherwise experience it; and to provide unique educational opportunities in a special mountain setting.

OUR PEOPLE:

Cal-Wood Education Center believes that diversity—encompassing race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, ability, and socioeconomic status—enhances our ability to engage with the diverse communities we serve. We strive to reflect this diversity within our team and our programming, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.

​ We welcome applicants who are passionate about environmental education and committed to promoting equity and inclusion in our field. By working together, we can inspire a deeper understanding of our environment and create a more sustainable future for all. Join us in building a vibrant, inclusive community dedicated to environmental education and advocacy.