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Environmental Education Winter Field Instructor

Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation Area
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Description

Under the direction of the Environmental Education Coordinator, Bogus Basin’s SnowSchool program is seeking an energetic and knowledgeable field instructor to teach snow science and winter ecology to school field trip groups during the winter season. Field instructors will lead school groups through environmental education activities and lessons while snowshoeing in the Boise National Forest. The Field Instructor will be provided training that allows them to proficiently execute the requirements of this position. They will be trained to execute the educational activities, mentored to provide positive learning experiences for the children, encouraged to create activities of their own interest that fit into our curriculum, and expected to positively redirect students’ behavior when necessary. SnowSchool’s field trip program is aligned with Idaho Science Standards and STEM curriculum, and is delivered to students through authentic and meaningful explorations of the natural world. 

Transportation: Transportation is provided up and down the mountain from the Bogus Basin ticket office. Field Instructors will ride in the SnowSchool van with supervisor, coordinator, volunteers, and interns.

Duration: Start date flexible, as early as Dec 1st to mid April, M-F typically 8:45am-3:15pm

*A 3 day training will take place December 18th-20th

*For STEM spring break camp, March 17th-21st, field instructors will work 8:45am-4:15pm, starting and ending at Fort Boise Community Center

*Additional work hours after SnowSchool may be available for interested field instructors
 

QUESTIONS? Email josie@bogusbasin.org

 

Essential Functions of the Job

  • Competently teach topics such as snow science, hydrology, and winter ecology while having fun with 3rd to 12th grade students or members of the public, in a winter forest environment in a variety of weather
  • Coordinate day-of tasks with other field instructors, interns, teachers, volunteers, and parent-chaperones while maintaining clear communication in often-changing learning conditions
  • Connect a wide assortment of people from various generations and demographics with the learning content and mission of Bogus Basin, SnowSchool, and Winter Wildlands Alliance
  • Learn SnowSchool curriculum efficiently at the beginning of the season
  • Assist Environmental Education Supervisor with inventorying quality and quantity of equipment
  • Ensure safe learning environment for all participants

Non-Essential Functions of the Job

  • Entrusted to ensure proper payment is collected from program participants.
  • Assist with coordinating and communicating with volunteers.
  • Assist with participant data collection and reporting.
  • Clearing and shoveling snow.
  • Maintaining snowshoe trails and signage.
  • Perform other duties, as required.
     

Job Requirements

  • Some academic or professional background in ecology, biology, hydrology, teaching, conservation, outdoor education, leadership, or similar field.
  • Preferred- Degree in education, hydrology, ecology, biology, environmental science, earth science, or similar field preferred.
  • Preferred- Basic CPR/First Aid certification, Wilderness First Aid certification or higher.
  • Background check required.

Additional Requirements

  • Have a strong interest in nature education, and educating youth.
  • Passion for the SnowSchool mission and winter sport recreation.
  • Experience delivering and participating in place-based, experiential environmental education.
  • Desire to inspire the next generation to care for their open spaces and environment.
  • Love and admiration for the wonders of winter and human-powered travel.
  • Ability to thrive as a member of a team.
  • Ability to perform essential duties efficiently and accurately, with or without supervision, and without injury to incumbent or others.

Physical Requirements

  • Consistently travel 1-4 miles per day on snowshoes while transporting backpacks weighing up to 25 lbs.
  • Frequently communicate with students ranging in age from 3rd grade and up.
  • Occasionally need to position themselves to operate snow shovels, avalanche probes, microscopes, and other snow pit measuring instruments with young students.
  • Occasionally use keyboard and computer to complete administrative tasks.
  • Ability to navigate mountainous terrain with or without GPS or maps.

Working Conditions and Schedule

  • The field instructor frequently works in an outdoor environment in low temperatures with occasional snow precipitation and high winds while wearing snowshoes.
  • This position averages 30-35 hours per week. Schedule will mainly take place Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:15 PM starting in early January and continuing through early April. Training will take place in December 18th-20th. Additional work hours after SnowSchool days may be available for field instructors interested.