Outdoor Classroom

Explore the outdoor education world in beautiful California as a Science Camp Instructor!

Posted: May 01, 2026

Cabin Instructors

Emerald Cove Outdoor Science (ECOS) Institute

Green Valley Lake, California

Wages/Pay
$145.00 - $150.00 / day
Experience Level
No experience required
Job Start Date
ASAP

Outdoor Educator

Location: Green Valley Lake, CA 92341

Pay: $145.00 - $150.00 per day

Applications are also being accepted for the academic year from September 29th, 2026 - May 28th, 2027. ECOS is still seeking Instructors to finish out the spring season through May 29th, 2026. 

Job description:

1. Please use this link to schedule an introductory call with our team to learn more about the position and begin the application process. (Please note that the application process will be explained during the Intro Call.): https://calendar.app.google/zquMorn4Tk6MGn8BA

2. Please use this link to watch a video to learn more about this position: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KQqkR2in-svpkvCNvVGWgDLYBnE603IO/view

Email: hr@ecosinstitute.com

What Instructors Do

We will train you! As educators, instructors lead 5th and 6th graders on hikes focused on scientific inquiry. As cabin leaders, instructors will supervise a team of 12-18 students, guiding them through personal challenges, team-building activities, and a comprehensive camp experience that includes plenty of games, songs, and good 'ol fun! Instructors also serve as the primary supervisor for students in the cabins at night & during the day. All staff members must be able to work continuous and consecutive 24 hour shifts supervising children for up to 5 days at a time over the course of 9 months. They must be able to stand for long hours, carry 25 pounds, and hike 5 miles a day in heat, wind, rain, and snow for over 2 hours at a time, at high altitude.

What Instructors Gain
Instructors receive comprehensive training on science instruction, childcare and group management. They gain skills and experience that translate well to future careers in teaching, adventure recreation guiding, social work and more. Instructors live in a community of inspired people in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California--a destination location for skiing, cycling, climbing, and hiking. Instructors are also eligible for subsidized housing and professional development opportunities.

https://ecosinstitute.com/join-team/

Benefit Conditions:

  • Only full-time employees eligible

  • Accrue up to 5 sick days

  • $250/month subsidized housing for out of state/nonlocals based on availability & program needs

Schedule:

  • Monday to Friday

This Job Is:

  • A job for which military experienced candidates are encouraged to apply

  • Open to applicants who do not have a college diploma

This Job Is Ideal for Someone Who Is:

  • Dependable -- more reliable than spontaneous

  • People-oriented -- enjoys interacting with people and working on group projects

  • Adaptable/flexible -- enjoys doing work that requires frequent shifts in direction

  • Detail-oriented -- would rather focus on the details of work than the bigger picture

  • Achievement-oriented -- enjoys taking on challenges, even if they might fail

  • Autonomous/Independent -- enjoys working with little direction

  • Innovative -- prefers working in unconventional ways or on tasks that require creativity

  • High stress tolerance -- thrives in a high-pressure environment

Requirements: Must obtain First Aid, and either CPR or BLS certificates.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

  • Professional development assistance

Schedule:

  • Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Due to requirements associated with our school district partnerships, we are currently unable to consider applicants who would not be able to complete a US background check. As a result, we are not able to hire international applicants at this time, including those with valid work visas.

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How to Apply

Apply Now

Contact Info

Emerald Cove Outdoor Science (ECOS) Institute

ECOS Institute is dedicated to helping students engage the natural world in the unique, exciting setting of the San Bernardino Mountains. Instructors act as both teacher/naturalists and counselors as they facilitate 3, 4, and 5-day programs that highlight science curriculum, environmental education, exploration of local ecosystems, and social growth.

Location
California
Season
Spring, Fall, and Winter
Staff size
40-60
Housing
Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
Housing details
Limited based on limited availability & program needs.
Pet friendly
No
Meals
Provided
Cell phone service
Some, ask for details
Internet access
Good
About CoolWorks

Since 1995, CoolWorks has connected adventure-seekers with job opportunities in amazing places—from national parks to ski resorts, summer camps to dude ranches. We help people trade screen time for real time—meaningful experiences that spark connection and growth. Your next great adventure is waiting. More About CoolWorks

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