First Year Naturalist Educator

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.

Job Overview

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
- WFR Certification through Desert Mountain Medicine
- PRO-I Swiftwater Rescue Certification through Swiftwater Safety Institute
- Meals during overnight programs
- Two pre-scheduled paid weeks off

Minimum Requirements

• Minimum of 21 years of age.
• CFI requires everyone who comes in contact with youth to take a comprehensive background check.
• Current driver’s license and a willingness to participate in and pass Driver Training
• Maintains a clean driving record, passes and keeps current a DOT physical exam at own expense.
• Willingness to get a Utah Food Handlers certification
• Available to work a flexible schedule, including days, nights, and weekends for up to 10 consecutive days
• Proof of Covid-19 vaccine. Reasonable accommodations for candidates who can’t be vaccinated due to valid medical or religious reasons will be considered