Outdoor Educator

Kanuga Conferences, Inc

Position: Outdoor Educator

This is a full-time, seasonal position classified as non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). On-site living is required, with housing and meals provided as part of the role.

Availability

Candidates must be available to work during one of the following seasons:

Spring: February–May

Summer: June–August

Fall: September–November

About Kanuga

Kanuga, an independent non-profit organization established in 1928, is a 1,400-acre retreat and learning center nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. With a deep commitment to outdoor stewardship, Kanuga offers year-round programs that connect people with nature, foster personal growth, and build a sense of community. While historically affiliated with The Episcopal Church, Kanuga welcomes a diverse audience—including schools, nonprofits, and businesses—through its retreat center, summer camps, and environmental education initiatives

Position Overview

Outdoor education is central to Kanuga's mission. Leveraging the rich biodiversity of the Southern Appalachian ecosystem, Kanuga engages thousands annually in environmental experiences that inspire a deeper connection to the natural world. Kanuga’s Outdoor Educators play a vital role in delivering high-quality outdoor education and supporting all outdoor initiatives, including programs offered through the Mountain Trail Outdoor School (MTOS).

Responsibilities

Outdoor Educators are responsible for:

• Demonstrating enthusiasm for environmental education and team building for young people and adults.
• Establishing positive connections with learners of all ages, as well as chaperones and teachers.
• Adapt customizable lesson plans based on their teaching style, learners' age, and Kanuga’s curriculum.
• Fostering an inclusive learning environment.
• Identifying and responding to the states and needs of learners
• Participating in and contributing to Kanuga’s professional community of educators.
• Conducting 6–8 three-hour teaching blocks each week for MTOS groups.
• Leading 2–3 evening programs each week for MTOS groups.
• Skillfully delivering Kanuga’s experiential education curriculum.
• Attending all school and group orientations.

Desired Qualifications

• Willingness to work outdoors and contribute to a welcoming, supportive team.
• Knowledge of the natural world and outdoor adventure
• Experience working with children and youth
• Maturity, initiative, enthusiasm, flexibility, and a team-oriented attitude.
• Desire to grow as an individual and as an educator.
• Professionalism in appearance and conduct.
• Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in a related field.
• First Aid certifications such as CPR, Wilderness First Aid, and Lifeguarding are beneficial.

Degree of Physical Activity Required

The Outdoor Educator position involves a high degree of physical activity, including:

• Frequent lifting, bending, and carrying of tools, equipment, and supplies (up to 50 lbs).
• Outdoor work in a variety of weather conditions, including sun, rain, heat, and cold.
• Regular belaying duties during climbing activities.
• Standing, walking, kneeling, and bending for extended periods while leading or assisting with programs.
• Hiking up to 3 miles while leading a group and carrying a backpack with necessary supplies.

Additional Position Details

• On-Site Housing: Includes private bedrooms, shared bathrooms, kitchen access, laundry facilities, porches, and access to 12 miles of hiking trails and 1,400 acres of natural woodlands and lakes.
• On-Call Duty: Educators living on-site are required to serve as on-call staff as assigned.
• Training: Educators receive a paid three-week training program focusing on teaching Kanuga and MTOS’s experiential outdoor education curriculum, with an emphasis on social and emotional learning and resiliency.

Join our team and help connect people with nature while inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards!