ADK (Adirondack Mountain Club) works to protect New York State wild lands and waters by promoting responsible outdoor recreation and building a statewide constituency of land stewardship advocates. Since 1922, the organization has worked to increase access to the backcountry by building trails, conserving natural areas, and developing a stewardship community that supports the ethical and safe use of New York’s outdoor spaces. A member, donor, and volunteer-supported organization, ADK reaches across New York through its 27 chapters to inspire people to enjoy the outdoors ethically.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Outreach Educator position offers an exciting opportunity to work as a part of ADK’s (Adirondack Mountain Club) Education team at the Heart Lake Program Center (HLPC) in Lake Placid, NY. There are two major components to this dynamic position: environmental interpretation and information services.

As an interpreter, the Outreach Educator creates and conducts natural history programs, participates in ADK’s school outreach programming, and leads other interpretative programs for children and adults. As a member of the visitor information services team at the High Peaks Information Center, this role promotes responsible recreation and trip planning for visitors to the High Peaks Region of the Adirondacks. This position also flexes to support the education department in fulfilling daily tasks, developing programming, and other duties as assigned.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Environmental Interpretation– 60%

• Facilitate ADK’s fourth grade school outreach programming, including classroom visits to local schools, leading students on hikes and occasional virtual programming
• Lead other elementary school outreach programming
• Develop environmental interpretation programs
• Give public presentations
• Engage in community outreach

Information Services – 30%

• Provide a welcoming atmosphere for visitors recreating in the High Peaks Region at the High Peaks Information Center
• Provide up to date trail information and conditions
• Help visitors choose outdoor experiences based on their needs and interests
• Promote Leave No Trace and responsible recreation practices
• Educate visitors on rules and regulations specific to the High Peaks Region
• Assist with management and renting of equipment: bear resistant food canisters, maps, trekking poles etc.
• Answer phones to assist with trip planning
• Communicate with DEC in cases of backcountry emergencies
• Promote membership and further involvement with ADK

Program Planning and Special Projects – 10%

• Support daily functions of the education department, including program development, special projects, program preparation and other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

Basic:

• A passion for outdoor education and a commitment to the mission, values, and vision of the Adirondack Mountain Club
• Educational background in environmental education/interpretation, natural history, natural sciences, outdoor recreation, or related field
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, public speaking, professionalism, and outdoor leadership capabilities
• Act as professional role model for ADK, demonstrating at all times a stewardship ethic and responsible wilderness leadership
• Ability to work both independently and as a team member
• Ability and willingness to navigate 10-15 miles by foot over rough, steep, terrain with heavy pack loads
• High level of organizational skills to effectively plan, teach, and administer the diverse demands of the job, and keep detailed records
• Willingness to work extended hours/days in the field while on overnight trips
• Motivated, enthusiastic, creative, and willing to work with people of all ages
• Employment is contingent on passing a background check
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to drive a large 15 passenger van and trailer
• A valid New York State Guide’s License or willingness to obtain

Preferred:

• Previous experience working in education, outdoor recreation, or a nature/visitor center
• Previous experience working with families with children
• Familiarity with flora and fauna of the Adirondacks
• Basic level of competence with trip logistics: route identification, navigation, equipment needs, dietary requirements and food packing, and group dynamics and conflict resolution
• Current Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR) or equivalent medical/first aid training
• A valid New York State Guide’s License or willingness to obtain

BENEFITS AND COMPENSATION

Reports to: Outreach Manager
Supervises: N/A
Classification: Seasonal, full-time, non-exempt
Dates: Late April – September 2; start/end dates flexible
Salary/Wage: $15.00/hour
Benefits: Paid sick time

Perks: Free ADK membership; extensive training and certifications (Wilderness First Aid, Certified Interpretive Guide, Leave No Trace Trainer, and more); free ADK workshops; discounts on store merchandise and rental equipment.

Housing: Shared onsite housing available at Heart Lake Program Center with three meals a day for a small deduction.

ORGANIZATIONAL STATEMENT

As an organization, we appreciate a diverse set of skills and candidates eager and willing to grow and learn with our organization. As such, our job descriptions are general overviews, not a mandatory comprehensive list. If you feel passionate about our efforts and believe that you have the skills and aptitude to succeed in this role, we want to hear from you.

ADK affirms its commitment to equal employment opportunity for all individuals. Decisions about recruiting, hiring, training, promotions, compensation, benefits, and all similar employment matters are made in compliance with all federal, state and local laws and without regard to race, color, religion, gender, ethnic or national origin, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, familial status, military status or any other classification protected by federal or state law. Any discrimination in the workplace against persons protected by equal employment opportunity laws is illegal and against policy.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $15.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Holidays
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person