Program Instructor (Spring Season)

Summary of Position

This position supports education programs at the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) during the spring program season. This includes Mountain School, North Cascades Institute’s 5th grade overnight outdoor school program, as well as various weekend adult and family programs. Program Instructors deliver hands-on, nature-based education in the North Cascades ecosystem and support program operations while living and working in a remote mountain setting. A successful candidate may hail from a variety of professional backgrounds but loves teaching, being outdoors, and is inspired to work with children. Multiple positions are available. Dates of employment are February 17 - June 5, 2026.

Position Dates and Location

Season dates: February 17 – June 5, 2026. The position is based at the North Cascades Institute.

Environmental Learning Center (ELC) on the shore of Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park.

Mountain School Program

Mountain School is a nationally recognized, residential environmental education program serving approximately 3,000 students annually. During their three-day, two-night experience, 5th grade students hike under towering trees, explore terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, and learn about the natural and cultural history of the region through lessons aligned with Next Generation Science Standards.

Weekend ELC-Based Programs

Conferences and Retreats - Instructors support these activities by teaching short programs, serving as a site host, and engaging with guests to help NCI reach a broader audience. Events range from medical training to scientific conferences to family reunions.

Base Camps - Educational weekend retreats for individuals, families, or anyone who wants to learn about and explore the North Cascades. Instructors host and teach short programs.

Required Qualifications

• Experience teaching or leading elementary and/or middle school youth
• Flexibility, strong judgment, and ability to work independently and on a team
• Ability to live and work in a remote community
• Current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) certification by start date, valid for full term of employment (training provided in February at the expense of the employee)
• Availability for evening and weekend work as needed
• Final offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, which may include employment history, a national criminal background check, sex offender registry search, and a driving history check

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with teaching science concepts in outdoor settings
• Experience working with individuals from underrepresented communities
• Spanish language proficiency
• Knowledge of the North Cascades natural and cultural history

Responsibilities

• Lead trail groups on short hikes and deliver natural and cultural history lessons
• Supervise and support students in a residential setting, including mealtimes and evening activities
• Participate in training and follow organizational risk management protocols
• Support program logistics, facilities, and other team needs as assigned

Key Dates

• Season start: February 17, 2026
• Season end: June 5, 2026
• WFA training opportunity: February 14-15

Equal Opportunity Employer

Recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce is a high priority at North Cascades Institute. The Institute does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, military, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, age, citizenship or any other basis prohibited by law in any of its policies or programs.

About North Cascades Institute

North Cascades Institute's mission is to inspire environmental stewardship through transformative learning experiences in nature. Since 1986, we have helped connect people, nature and community through science, art, literature and the hands-on study of natural and cultural history. Our goal is to help people of all ages and backgrounds experience and enjoy the mountains, rivers, forests, people and wildlife of the Pacific Northwest – so all will care for and protect this special place.

North Cascades Institute is a respected leader among U.S. environmental education organizations, and we believe that sustainable communities are built on healthy environments, vibrant economies and social equity. The Institute is in sound financial health with a $4 million budget and strong reserves, and 21 four-star ratings with Charity Navigator for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency.

This is a temporary/seasonal, full-time, non-exempt position. The wage is $18.98/hour. Most weeks average 35-40 hours; occasional overtime possible (paid at 1.5x). Benefits include the following:

• Sick leave - accrued at the rate of .04615 per hour
• Vacation leave - accrued at the rate of .01925 per hour
• Paid holidays - 1 day estimated through June 5
• $110 per month health care stipend to be paid in the first pay period following completion of a 21-day probationary period
• Option to defer compensation as a pre-tax deferral in our retirement plan
• Ability to participate in Institute pro deals

Benefits are prorated for employees working less than 40 hours per week. Employees are responsible for their own health insurance.

This is a bargaining unit position represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, District Lodge 751. All terms and conditions of employment are subject to change in accordance with a collective bargaining agreement.

Housing

Good quality housing is available through the Institute at $397/month including utilities, considerably below market rates. Private rooms in shared houses are typically available, but not guaranteed. In some cases, roommates in shared rooms may be required, at $198.50/month.

Spanish language proficiency preferred (not required).