New York, New York, United States · On-site
Season: August 21, 2026 through December 19, 2026 Daily Compensation: $200.00 If you have experience or a strong desire to facilitate youth programs, a commitment to diversity and inclusion, and enjoy collaborative work,…
Skills: Youth Facilitation, Outdoor Education, Rock Climbing Belaying, Risk Assessment, Conflict Resolution
New York, New York, United States • On-site
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Lead students through outdoor adventure courses including hiking and rock climbing while ensuring a safe and inclusive learning environment. Provide professional development, coaching, and mentorship to fellow instructors to enhance instructional strategies.
Must be 18+ years old and capable of lifting 50 pounds for five miles per day in various weather conditions. Requires a commitment to educational equity and the ability to obtain certifications such as Wilderness Advanced First Aid and CPR.
Season: August 21, 2026 through December 19, 2026
Daily Compensation: $200.00
If you have experience or a strong desire to facilitate youth programs, a commitment to diversity and inclusion, and enjoy collaborative work, join us to create unforgettable experiences for young individuals at stunning outdoor locations and vibrant city settings.
ABOUT NYC OUTWARD BOUND SCHOOLS
Founded in 1987, NYC Outward Bound Schools is a nonprofit organization that partners with more than 100 public schools across NYC to engage students in equitable, immersive and joyful learning that prepares them to thrive in community, college and career. Our unique approach to programming focuses on adventurous learning — daring exploration, real-world engagement, and meaningful challenge — whether in school, local communities, or the outdoors. In schools, we coach teachers and school leaders to implement Crew, our signature advisory structure that supports student connection and belonging, and Instruction for Deeper Learning in the classroom. Outdoors, whether in the city or upstate at our wilderness basecamp, we deliver adventure programming to students, helping them realize that they can do hard things, and develop leadership skills like collaboration and initiative that transfer to the academic classroom. In all spaces where we work, we support students to be co-creators of their own learning and growth, in environments where their voices are heard and valued. Every day, we are proving that transformation and innovation can happen within a public school system, and that with truly equitable schools, all students — regardless of background or circumstance — are capable of achieving at high levels.
Role Summary:
The Outdoor Adventures: Lead Instructor position at NYC Outward Bound Schools leads students on outdoor adventure courses including hiking, low ropes courses, belaying support on rock climbing walls, and team-building programs at a remote location in Fishkill, NY and various locations across the five boroughs in NYC. During overnight and single day programs, Lead Instructors plan components of outdoor adventure courses for small groups of youth, facilitate adventurous learning experiences, adapt activities based on students’ needs, and ensure a safe and exciting learning environment for all participating youth. The Lead Instructor is also responsible for modeling high-quality instruction and providing professional development, coaching, and support to fellow instructors in order to enhance and differentiate instructional strategies and student engagement. This position requires both remote, overnight work on outdoor courses in NY State and urban adventures in NYC as well as work in the NYC Outward Bound Schools’ headquarters office in Long Island City (Queens). Transportation from our headquarters in Long Island City (Queens) to the Fishkill, NY site is provided, and limited staff housing is available at the Fishkill, NY location for those who need it This role is designed as a per diem employee role and does not guarantee a set amount of work or time.
Essential Functions:
Plan for and Provide High-Quality Direct Instruction and Support to Students on Course
Providing Students with Experiences in a Positive and Inclusive Culture
Serve as Model Instructor and Mentor
Other duties, as required, may be requested.
Qualifications:
Previous experience in outdoor adventure courses and/or climbing is not necessary – what is most important is a strong desire to work with the young people of NYC and expand their view of the world. Minimum qualifications for the role include:
Benefits:
NYC Outward Bound Schools is an equal-opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination against and harassment of any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, gender, pregnancy, genetic information, ethnic or national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, familial status, military or veteran status, qualified individuals with a disability on the basis of the disability, or any other category which may be protected under applicable state or federal law.
Studies have shown that certain populations, including women and people of color, are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they can perform every job description task. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may come from a less traditional background. We may consider an equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications. If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set for the role.
NYC Outward Bound Schools is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination against, and harassment of, any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, gender, pregnancy, genetic information, ethnic or national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, familial status, military or veteran status, qualified individuals with a disability on the basis of the disability, or any other category which may be protected under applicable state or federal law.
Equitable, Immersive and Joyful Learning
NYC Outward Bound Schools is a nonprofit organization that partners with over 70 NYC public schools to engage students in equitable, immersive and joyful learning that prepares them to thrive in college, career and beyond.
Offices: 29-46 Northern Boulevard, Long Island City, NY 11101, US
Equitable, Immersive and Joyful Learning
NYC Outward Bound Schools is a nonprofit organization that partners with over 70 NYC public schools to engage students in equitable, immersive and joyful learning that prepares them to thrive in college, career and beyond.
Offices: 29-46 Northern Boulevard, Long Island City, NY 11101, US
