Mountain Kids!, based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a 17-year-old outdoor education and adventure program for children ages 5–17. Our mission is to connect kids with nature, themselves, and each other through personal challenges, outdoor exploration, learning, and fun.
We offer small group sizes and a low adult-to-child ratio, allowing us to provide a high-quality outdoor learning experience. We believe outdoor experiential play helps children build confidence, inspire personal growth, and develop a lifelong love for the natural world.
About the Programs
Our Fall programs run September through December and include:
- Wildschool Homeschool Program – Weekly nature immersion days filled with hiking, games, primitive skills, crafting, and storytelling.
- After-School Program – Afternoon outdoor play, exploration, and skill-building.
- Outdoor Equity Four Seasons Program – Seasonal field trips for underserved students from Title 1 public schools in Santa Fe.
About the Role
Field Instructors are the heart of our programs. They create a safe, inclusive, and inspiring environment where kids can thrive outdoors. Instructors supervise and guide children in nature-based activities, lead outdoor adventures, and foster community, confidence, and respect for the natural world.
Responsibilities
- Co-lead groups of students and creating/building positive learning communities
- Ensure the health and well-being of participants each day.
- Facilitate outdoor learning, adventures, and problem-solving skills.
- Model respectful behavior toward people, property, and nature.
- Participate in weekly staff meetings and contribute to a collaborative team.
Ideal Candidates
- Love the outdoors and enjoy working with children ages 5–12
- Have experience in outdoor education or a willingness to learn
- Possesses strong communication, organization, and group management skills.
- Are adaptable, energetic, and solution-oriented
- Hold a clean driving record and can drive a 15-passenger van.
Minimum Qualifications
- Ability to speak Spanish
- 18 years or older (must be 21+ to drive vans)
- Current Wilderness First Aid & CPR certification
- Clean driving record and ability to pass a background check
If you’re an enthusiastic, caring, and responsible outdoor educator ready to help kids discover the magic of the natural world, we’d love to hear from you!
To apply, please email your cover letter, resume, and three professional references to Gwen Lyons, Program Director.
Learn more about all our programs at: https://sfmountainkids.org