Find Outdoor Education Instructor Job in Red Wing, Minnesota | Snaprecruit

Position Title: Full Time Field Instructor

Organization: Red Wing Environmental Learning Center (ELC)

Posted: 1/30/24

About Red Wing ELC:

Established in 1970, the Red Wing Environmental Learning Center (ELC) stands as a source of inspiration for outdoor education, particularly for the youth in the Red Wing area. Committed to fostering a deep appreciation for the outdoors, the ELC goes beyond traditional learning by providing unique, high-quality, experiential, and adventure skill-based programs. We recognize the profound impact that outdoor activities can and do have on the positive development of young individuals.

For over five decades, the ELC has been a leader in outdoor education in the state of Minnesota, focusing on the essential life skills of participants ages 8 to 18. Leadership, problem-solving, perseverance, teamwork, communication, and acceptance of diversity are not just ELC skills but are essential life skills.

The ELC's dedication to hands-on experiential learning aligns with the ancient Chinese proverb, \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\"I hear and I forget, I see and I remember, I do and I understand.\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\" Through these hands-on experiences and a sustained connection with students over an extended period of time, the ELC serves as a model for authentic and enduring change in these young individuals.

Thanks to the generous support from the Red Wing Shoe Company and their commitment to the community of Red Wing, the ELC has been able to offer these enriching experiences to our students. The Red Wing Shoe Company's dedication underscores a shared belief about the positive impact of outdoor education on youth development.

Position Overview:

At the Red Wing Environmental Learning Center, we believe in the transformative power of nature and the profound impact it can have on individuals. As a Field Instructor, you are not just a guide; you are a catalyst for change, creating safe and life-changing experiences that will often leave a lasting impact on ELC students.

In this pivotal role, you will be at the forefront of facilitating and preparing a diverse range of outdoor programs. From Core programming to Intro programming, Explore programs, Young Explorer, and Tiny Tree programs, you will be instrumental in providing a spectrum of opportunities for our students to connect with nature, learn, and grow. Your dedication to fostering a love for the environment will contribute to shaping the next generation of environmental stewards.

This is more than just a job; it's a dedication to our ELC community and outreach. As a full-time Field Instructor, you'll not only immerse yourself in the beauty of outdoor education but also take on responsibilities like administrative tasks, delivering impactful public presentations, actively participating in collaborative meetings, and ensuring the smooth functioning and maintenance of equipment and resources. Amid these commitments to the ELC and our community, you'll also experience an incredible degree of freedom and flexibility in your role.

Your passion for the environment will be contagious, inspiring those around you to appreciate and cherish the natural world. Join us at the Red Wing Environmental Learning Center, where every day is an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of our students and the community we serve.

At the heart of our mission is the commitment to helping students become the best version of themselves possible. We believe in fostering an environment that respects differences and embraces diversity. By instilling values of inclusivity and understanding, we empower our students not only to thrive in the natural world but also to contribute positively to a diverse and interconnected society. Join us in shaping not just environmental stewards, but compassionate and empowered individuals who make a difference in their communities and beyond. Together, let's build a legacy of environmental education that extends far beyond the confines of the Red Wing Environmental Learning Center.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conducting course facilitation and preparation for core, elective and specialized programs (Backpacking, Rock Climbing, Canoeing, Whitewater Kayaking, Sea Kayaking, Bike Touring, Biking, Creeking, Sailing, among others).
• Ensure safety of all students and staff
• Engaging in various organizational duties
• Create and participate in public presentations and meetings with various stakeholders
• Order, maintain and repair various ELC equipment and resources.
• Promote ELC programs and events online, through publications, and with media and community organizations.
• Serve as an ambassador for the ELC while in the public.
• Perform administrative functions such as tracking program attendance, writing reports, managing budgets, and participating in staff meetings.

Preferred Qualifications and Skills: Listed below are the skills, knowledge, and competencies that we highly value in our ideal candidate. We understand that no candidate will possess all of these qualities, but we are seeking the best candidate who aligns with as many as possible. Ultimately, we are looking for an individual who is hardworking, self-motivated, and passionate about young people and the outdoors.

Key Qualities:

• Outdoor Skills: Proficiency in activities such as canoeing, kayaking, rock climbing, and winter camping is highly desirable.
• Adventurous Spirit: A candidate who embraces adventure and is excited about exploring the outdoors.
• Safety Orientation: Balancing a sense of adventure with a strong commitment to safety is crucial.
• Youth Engagement: Enjoys working with young people and a passion for helping them connect with the outdoors and each other.

We recognize that no candidate will meet every criterion listed below, but we encourage individuals who possess a combination of these qualities to apply. We believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, and we welcome candidates with unique perspectives and experiences.

If you are enthusiastic, dedicated, and ready to contribute to a dynamic team focused on outdoor engagement, we invite you to apply and showcase your skills that align with our mission.

Below are the specific educational background, knowledge and experience areas, certifications, and additional qualifications that we are considering:

Education/ Experience:

• Education:
• Bachelors degree (B.A./B.S.) in relevant field from a four-year college or university
• NOLS Graduate
• Equivalent Experience

• Multiple years of outdoor-related experience.

Outdoor Knowledge and Experience:

• Competency in a wide variety of soft skills, including but not limited to outdoor leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in various outdoor skills such as backpacking, biking, canoeing, rock climbing, whitewater kayaking, sea kayaking, sailing, cross country skiing, rock climbing, hunting, fishing and more.
• Experience working with youth ages 8-18.
• Knowledge of the natural resources and cultural history of Minnesota.
• Knowledge of the local Indigenous cultures and perspectives as they pertain to the natural resources and cultural history of the region and state.
• Knowledge sufficient to identify various flora and fauna.

Certifications:

• Wilderness First Responder certification
• Class D drivers license with a safe and clear driving record.
• Ability to drive and maneuver a 12-passenger van with a loaded trailer under various weather conditions.

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge and proficiency of Microsoft Word, Power Point, Excel, Outlook, Google Documents, Slideshow programs and other standard computer programs.
• Experience in public speaking, interpersonal communication, or education
• Experience developing relationships with communities that have a culture different than ones own or course work in diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion.
• Experience providing outreach to underserved populations and communities.
• Proficiency in Spanish is desirable, but not mandatory.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to safely and effectively conduct ELC type programs. This might include carrying a backpack through the woods on a trail, pulling a sled in the winter down a trail, or rock climbing on the north shore of Minnesota. Weights and distances will vary depending on the nature of the activity and conditions.

Work Environment and Culture:

• Comfortable participating in a wide range of outdoor activities in varying weather conditions.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends, overnight trips and extended trips. 2080 hours per year
• Staff have a great deal of freedom and flexibility while creating and setting their schedules
• The ELC is:
• Dog friendly
• Staff are encouraged to be creative and have freedom to explore and create new programming ideas
• Supportive and Collaborative
• Highly valued by community

Compensation/ Benefits:

• Salary range is $43,000- $65,000 and will be based on experience, qualifications, and skills.
• Health insurance coverage
• Long Term Disability Coverage
• Employer paid life insurance
• Gear stipend
• Flexible work schedule
• Access to Public Employees Retirement Association (PERA)
• Mileage reimbursement for personal vehicle use
• Access and ability to utilize ELC equipment and cabins personally as schedule allows
• Temporary Free Housing- available onsite during transition if needed

Application Process:

• Interested candidates should send an email or cover letter expressing interest, along with a Resume or Curriculum Vitae.
• Email should be sent to ELC Executive Director Jason Jech at rwelcjason@gmail.com.
• Please put in subject line- Full Time Field Instructor Application
• References will be requested at a later date if needed

Anticipated Hiring Timeline:

• Posting of the position immediately- January 31st, 2024
• Application Deadline- March 1, 2024
• Interviews week of March 11-15, 2024
• Start date: Negotiable, May 1 or as soon as possible.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

At Red Wing Environmental Learning Center, we embrace the spirit of phrase 'I'm with you.' In our commitment to diversity and inclusion, we acknowledge the need to enhance our current representation, and we are dedicated to creating a program where every student can see themselves.

Valuing individuals is one of our strengths, and we strive to be a positive example for our students and community. Join us in fostering an environment where everyone can thrive. Just as in wilderness travel, we understand the importance of standing together, supporting one another through the inevitable challenges we will face. Together, we move forward with the unwavering message: 'I am with you.

We will provide reasonable accommodations for all qualified applicants with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who needs assistance, please contact Jason Jech at 651-388-7339 or email rwelcjason@gmail.com and indicate what assistance is needed.

Full Time Field Instructor Job Summary:

• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers. This is determined based upon degree and/ or experience
• Date Posted: January 31, 2024
• Closing Date: March 1, 2024
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Varies, but 2080 hours per year
• Days/ Hours of Work: Varies. Very flexible work schedule
• Travel Required: Yes
• Salary Range: $43,000- $65,000 annually plus benefit package depending upon experience
• Classified Status: Exempt
• Telework Eligible: No, must reside in or around the Red Wing area.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $43,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan

Grade school specialties:

• 10th grade
• 11th grade
• 12th grade
• 6th grade
• 7th grade
• 8th grade
• 9th grade
• Physical Education
• Science

Schedule:

• After school
• Evenings as needed
• Monday to Friday
• Nights as needed
• Weekends as needed

Work setting:

• Camp
• In-person
• Outdoor work

Ability to Relocate:

• Red Wing, MN 55066: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person