First Year Naturalist Educator

The First Year Naturalist Educator training program is a paid professional development program for outdoor educators beginning their career of connecting people to, and fostering care for, the natural environment. The position focuses on facilitating land-based programming for school and youth groups at our Professor Valley Field Camp and multi-day river trips on the Green, Colorado, and San Juan Rivers.

Special Benefits

Free, shared, all gender housing is provided. Meals during all overnight programming and day programming where meals are included for clients. Mentorship and professional development in technical boating, guiding, teaching, and facilitation. Use of all CFI equipment needed to perform job duties. CFI will provide required gear and equipment.

Time off & Certifications:

• Two pre-scheduled paid weeks off in June and August are provided to Program staff. There will usually be two days off/week. May and September are exceptionally busy. Schedules will vary due to assigned river launch dates and bookings by groups.
• CFI will provide PRO-I swiftwater rescue course through the Swiftwater Safety Institute
• Wilderness first responder training if not already certified.
• Food Handlers certification if not already certified

Why work here

Canyonlands Field Institute provides quality outdoor education on the Colorado Plateau to inspire care of wild places and renew the human spirit. We believe in empowering students of all ages and backgrounds to deepen their connection to their surroundings. Through inclusive educational experiences, CFI seeks to build knowledge within practices of science, artistic expression, and Social and Emotional Learning. We are creating a team of educators with diverse life experiences who are committed to providing opportunities for all types of learners. By joining our educational community, you can help us promote the growth of caring leaders and empowered students who can affect positive change in our world.