Outdoor Education Coordinator - Year Round

About Mount Prospect Academy

Founded in 1964, Mount Prospect Academy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping adolescents overcome emotional, behavioral, and educational challenges. Through specialized educational and therapeutic programming, we help students develop the skills necessary to thrive both academically and personally. Our mission is to provide a caring, safe, and therapeutic environment where students can achieve their educational, social, and emotional potential while building confidence, independence, and healthy relationships.

What You'll Do

Outdoor Education & Adventure Programming

• Lead students in outdoor education and adventure-based activities
• Teach outdoor skills, including:
  • Hiking and wilderness safety
  • Environmental stewardship
  • Team building and leadership
  • Outdoor recreation techniques
• Plan and supervise:
  • Day trips
  • Outdoor excursions
  • Overnight adventures
• Ensure safety and risk management procedures are followed at all times
• Provide leadership and support to staff participating in outdoor activities
• Train students and staff on safe equipment use and outdoor practices

Student Mentorship & Support

• Build positive, supportive relationships with students
• Serve as a mentor and role model
• Assist with behavioral interventions using trauma-informed and ARC-based approaches
• Support classroom instruction and educational activities
• Participate in student meetings, including IEP and treatment planning meetings
• Document attendance, incidents, student progress, and daily activities

Equipment & Program Management

• Maintain and organize outdoor education equipment and storage areas
• Manage program inventory and equipment check-out procedures
• Ensure outdoor gear remains safe, functional, and properly maintained

Team Collaboration

• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development opportunities
• Assist school leadership with daily operations as needed
• Transport students using school vehicles for educational and recreational activities
• Maintain confidentiality and professional communication standards
• Provide support coverage during school vacations and school break periods

Why You'll Love This Role

Enjoy access to a dynamic Outdoor Education Program featuring:

• Kayaks & Canoes
• Mountain Bikes & E-Bikes
• Guided Hiking Adventures
• Snowshoeing
• Alpine & Cross-Country Skiing
• Climbing Wall
• Paintball Course
• High Ropes & Challenge Course
• Overnight Outdoor Expeditions
• Daily Adventure-Based Learning
• Stewardship Center Resources

This hands-on role allows you to spend time outdoors while making a lasting impact on the lives of youth.

Qualifications

Required

• Must be at least 21 years old
• High School Diploma or GED
• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
• Experience working positively with adolescents
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work in a physically active outdoor environment year-round

Preferred

• Bachelor's Degree, Associate Degree, or coursework in:
  • Outdoor Education
  • Environmental Studies
  • Education
  • Recreation
  • Related field
• Two or more years of experience working with youth in roles such as:
  • Camp Counselor
  • Coach
  • Outdoor Program Leader
  • Youth Mentor
  • Teacher's Assistant
  • Childcare Provider

Physical Requirements

• Regular outdoor work in all seasons and weather conditions
• Hiking and active participation in outdoor programming
• Lifting, carrying, and transporting equipment
• Physical stamina and endurance
• Supervising active groups of students
• Occasional travel and overnight trips
• Reliable attendance and on-site presence

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Benefits

• Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
• 403(b) Retirement Plan
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• AD&D Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Employee Discount Program
• Professional Development & Continuing Education Opportunities
• Wellness Programs and Team-Building Events
• Free Meals and Company Swag
• Access to Company Gym, Outdoor Recreation Equipment, and Adventure Activities