Adventure Instructor
Keystone Science School
Keystone, Colorado
Summer Trip Leader! Guide mutli-day expeditions in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains
Job start date
ASAP
Keystone Science School
Keystone Science School
Currently recruiting for the season from May 26th, 2026 to August 15th, 2026.
At KSS, we believe that the power of inspiring curiosity and critical thinking, through the lens of science, changes lives and strengthens communities. We create future leaders who can problem solve and work together in an ever-evolving world and workplace environment. We offer a range of programs that provide a balance of hands-on science activities, field-based exploration, and adventure.
Our campus is located at 9,200 feet on the site of Old Keystone Village in Keystone, Colorado. Our historic 23-acre campus serves as the ultimate outdoor laboratory and is the home base for our diverse suite of programs. Our facilities include modern log-style dormitories, a central dining hall, an outdoor amphitheater, a state-of-the-art observatory, a geothermal field, and employee housing.
- Location
- Colorado
- Season
- Summer
- Staff size
- 50-100
- Housing
- Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
- Housing details
- Rustic cabins or dorm-style units. Rooms and common areas are shared.
- Family housing available
- No
- Single occupancy housing available
- No
- Pet friendly
- No
- Meals
- Provided
- Cell phone service
- Yes, most carriers
- Internet access
- Good
About Keystone Science School
KSS is a year-round science and outdoor adventure-based learning center offering a diverse range of summer and school programs. Our 23-acre campus is located at 9,200 feet in Keystone, Colorado and serves as the ultimate outdoor playground for Science. Adventure. Fun!
KSS offers four unique summer programs for children in grades K-12:
- Day Camp (K-5th)
- Pathfinders Adventure Day Camp (6th-8th)
- Discovery Overnight Camp (1st-12th)
- Adventures (5th-12th)
During the school year, schools from all over Colorado and the US explore and learn in the high mountain environment of the Rockies. With national forests, streams, and an incredible alpine playground, students will engage in science-based curriculum such as:
- Aquatic Ecology
- Geology
- Winter Ecology & Adaptations
- Watersheds & Water Management
- Forest Ecology
- Snow & Avalanche Science
Each program is based on the foundational values of KSS, with science and outdoor adventure at the heart of everything we do. We strive to provide our campers with the opportunity for curiosity, exploration and learning through supportive, nurturing counselor relationships. In addition to on-campus activities such as archery, arts & crafts, all-campus games and talent shows, we also offer an array of off-site adventures. Campers of all ages can participate in high-adventure activities such as hiking, rock climbing, backpacking, camping, whitewater rafting and horseback trail-riding. Alongside these activities, counselors & instructors will provide science-based curriculum for our campers to learn about the unique alpine environment of the Rockies.
The Employee Experience
We want each camp staff member to look back on their summer at KSS as their Best Summer Ever! Working at camp can be an amazing experience, full of new friendships, tons of laughter, and amazing adventures. Summer camp is a magical place, and in full transparency, it’s one of the most challenging jobs you will ever have.
Each summer program at KSS offers staff to develop lifelong personal and professional skills. Our staff walk away with improved communication, risk management, leadership, outdoor recreation and teaching skills. This is more than a summer job, it is the most unforgettable and rewarding experience you will ever have.
Take a look at these highlights!
Training Dates for Summer 2026:
Day & Overnight Camp Staff: May 26th - June 7th.
Adventures & Pathfinders Camp Staff: May 11th - June 7th.
Leadership staff (Asst. Managers, Coordinators and Head Counselors) must on-site by May 18th for Leadership Training!
Ideal Candidate
We change lives, we bring fun and laughter to everything we do, and we care about each other and those we serve. We're looking for staff who:
Have an interest in, respect for, and ability to work with children and with people with diverse backgrounds
Experience with risk management practices of the outdoor and environmental education industry
Ability to be creative, adaptable, and flexible while managing children in a variety of situations
Motivation to contribute positively to the KSS at-large community
Superior customer service skills, with the ability to be creative and think 'outside the box'
Staff working summer programs should have the following qualifications:
Current First Aid, Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and CPR certifications, from an approved vendor, or the ability to obtain before the first day of employment. The certification required depends on the position.
To be a van driver, you must be age 20+ with a minimum of 4 years driving experience, excellent driving record, and a valid driver's license
Ability to provide contact information for 3 professional references
Be over the age of 18 by the start date of employment
Room and Board
Depending on your position, you may be housed in one of several different options. Accommodations include a variety of rustic cabins, modern living spaces, canvas tents and camper dorms.
Our Summer Counselors and Instructors staff receive housing and meals at no cost! Staff have access to shared kitchen, bathroom and laundry facilities either within their housing or elsewhere on camp.
Discovery Overnight Camp Staff will sleep in the dormitories or Snake River Village, depending on the program they are working. Our dorms hold up to 32 campers and 6 counselors each. Snake River Village typically sleeps 26 campers with 4 counselors overseeing them. Staff will have separate sleeping areas from campers within these locations.
Day Camp Staff will be housed nearby in shared dorm-style apartment facilities and will have access to all shared amenities on KSS property.
Food is provided each day of programming for staff and campers either in our Dining Hall or on-trail. On weekends when staff are not working, there is access to leftovers and ingredients in our Dining Hall as well as the shared staff kitchen. (Most cabins and dorms are furnished with at least one mini-fridge as well.)
All food allergies and dietary restrictions can be accommodated by our Dining Hall!
Employee Perks
Working in Summit County means you have access to one of the most incredible outdoor playgrounds in the US! Come explore mountains, forests, trails, rivers and lakes on your time off! Here are some of our favorite local suggestions-
- Dillon Amphitheater: Enjoy live music in a stunning outdoor setting!
- Nearby towns of Frisco, Breckenridge & Leadville
- Endless hiking, backpacking, cycling and trail running options in National & State Forests
- Rock Climbing Crags
- Lake Dillon: Paddleboard, kayak or fish
Getting Here and Getting Around
Directions to Campus
- Take I-70 Exit 205 for Dillon/Silverthorne.
- If traveling from the East (Denver), take a left onto Highway 6.
- If traveling from the West, take a right onto Highway 6.
- Travel on Highway 6 until you go through Silverthorne, Dillon, and around Lake Dillon.
- Go straight through the stoplight at Swan Mountain Road.
- At the next stoplight, take a right onto West Keystone Road, then an immediate left.
- Take your first right onto Soda Ridge Road. Follow this until the stop sign.
- Proceed straight past the stables and onto KSS Camps. Parking and the main administrative building, Tieken Place, is on left.
Transportation
While parking for staff working and living on campus is available, it is generally not required for staff to have a personal vehicle. The closest major airport is Denver International Airport (DIA), and several shuttle companies offer transportation directly to campus for around $45-80: Epic Mountain Express, Fresh Tracks, and Peak One Express.
The Summit Stage offers free public transportation throughout Summit County, however the closest bus stop, Keystone Lodge, is about 1.8 miles from campus. In the summer, many people bike the paved Recreation Path to get around the area.
Community Information
- Grocery Stores: Summit County has several groceries stores throughout the area. Wal-Mart, Target, Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, City Market and many convenience stores are within 25 minutes of campus.
- Restaurants, Bars, and Coffee Shops: There are a variety of food options in Summit County. Fast food options (mainly in Silverthorne) include Subway, Wendy’s, McDonald’s, Smash Burger, Qdoba, and Chipotle, and many more. There are too many restaurants, bars, coffee shops to list, but we’ll be happy to make recommendations!
- Shopping & Thrift Stores: Outdoor gear stores are available throughout Summit County, including REI and Wilderness Sports in Dillon. Used gear can be purchased at Recycled Sports in Frisco. There are several thrift stores throughout Summit County.
- Health Care: There are several hospitals and urgent care facilities throughout the county. Our closest medical center is about 10 minutes from campus.
- Outdoor Recreation: Many National Forest trails are in and around Summit County. Popular mountain ranges include the Gore Range, Ten Mile Range, Front Range, and Sawatch Range. Popular peaks to summit include Buffalo Mountain, Peak One, Quandary, Gray’s and Torrey’s, and Baldy. Directly next to KSS is the Keystone Nordic Track, which KSS staff are welcome to use free of charge.
- Recreation Centers: There are two nice Recreation Centers in the county: Silverthorne Rec Center and Breckenridge Rec Center. Both have pools, workout rooms, and fitness classes. The Breckenridge Rec Center also has an indoor rock-climbing gym.
- Movies: A large movie theater is located in Dillon, and a smaller theater, the Speakeasy, is in Breckenridge.
For Fun
Advice from Past Staff
- Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat!
- Things will never go according to plan – that’s life!
- Don’t get a van stuck
- Be flexible with the schedule
- Learn from other team members, everyone has a different background
- Be prepared for drastic changes in weather, and always have layers!
- Road bike around Lake Dillon and up to Vail Pass
- Eat the hashbrowns at Sunshine Café
- Go on a Hut Trip!
- Try the many craft breweries in Summit County
- See live music at Ten Mile Music Hall or Warren Station
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Jobs in the Spotlight
Current Job Openings
Lead and facilitate age-appropriate activities including science experiments, outdoor exploration, arts and crafts, and games.
Supervise and actively engage with up to 13 campers daily, ensuring a fun and supportive environment.
Foster teamwork, leadership, and personal growth in campers through hands-on learning and outdoor adventures.
Promote positive behavior and conflict resolution, creating an inclusive space for all campers.
Maintain high health and safety standards, following all Risk Management policies.
Ensure proper supervision and well-being of campers throughout the day.
Assist with check-in and check-out procedures, ensuring a smooth transition for families.
Monitor and manage camper behavior and group dynamics, providing guidance as needed.
Set up and clean up before and after daily activities.
Support the Tuesday Day Camp Sleepover on a rotating basis.
Support camp operations by completing logistical tasks such as taking photos, organizing materials, and maintaining program spaces.
Drive a 15-passenger van (for staff 20+ with 4+ years of driving experience) to transport campers safely.
Maintain and properly store all KSS equipment used during camp activities.
Facilitate and teach camp programs, science activities, and adventure programming.
Lead and supervise a field group of up to 13 campers during daily activities.
Guide campers on overnight trips and challenge hikes, ensuring a safe and fun experience.
Serve as a role model, fostering teamwork, confidence, and personal growth.
Lead nightly “Candle Chat” discussions to reflect on the day's experiences.
Live with campers in dormitories or the canvas tent village, providing round-the-clock support.
Maintain a safe, inclusive, and positive environment for all campers.
Follow and enforce risk management policies in all camp activities.
Support meetings to review rules, guidelines, and expectations for camper living spaces.
Assist with opening and closing day procedures to ensure smooth transitions.
Set up and clean up for meals, activities, and overnight camping trips.
Help pack and prepare gear for overnight adventures.
Drive a 15-passenger van (for staff 20+ with 4+ years of driving experience).
Take on additional duties as assigned to support the camp’s success.
Supervise and mentor up to 13 students alongside co-instructors during 6–12 day frontcountry and backcountry programs.
Teach outdoor living skills including packing, camp setup and breakdown, outdoor cooking, orienteering, and risk management.
Teach students basic rock climbing skills and safety, including belaying and fundamental movement techniques.
Facilitate age-appropriate curriculum focused on outdoor skills, leadership development, and environmental learning.
Guide students in personal growth, group dynamics, and daily living responsibilities in the field.
Provide an electronics-aware experience that encourages presence, reflection, and connection.
Document course progression and student concerns, participate in peer feedback, and engage in post-trip debriefs.
Gather and submit photos and videos that reflect the student experience during Adventure programs.
Implement daily Adventure logistics including schedules, routes, menus, emergency action plans, and transportation.
Manage program packing, gear organization, and equipment maintenance on a rotating basis.
Maintain clean, organized storage areas and assist with gear upkeep, repairs, and inventory.
Drive 15-passenger vans with trailers when needed, following completion of required driver and trailer trainings.
Assist with setup, management, and breakdown of top-rope climbing sites and rappels as trained.
Supervise students with a high standard of care, ensuring physical and emotional safety at all times.
Follow all KSS Risk Management policies and emergency response procedures.
Administer medications, conduct student health screenings, and apply first aid skills as needed.
Participate in incident prevention, documentation, and response when necessary.
Camp Programs
Day Camp Counselor
$500.00 / week
Keystone
Job Title: Day Camp Counselor
Compensation: $500/week, 5% increase for those fluent in both English and Spanish
Housing: Yes
Dates of Employment: May 26, 2026 - August 15, 2026
Reporting to: Day Camp Manager
Direct Reports: None
Position Summary
As a Day Camp Counselor at Keystone Science School, you’ll bring adventure, learning, and fun to life for campers in Kindergarten through 5th grade! Each week is packed with hands-on science activities, outdoor exploration, arts and crafts, games, and team-building. With a new science and adventure theme every week, you’ll inspire curiosity and confidence while creating unforgettable experiences in the great outdoors.
You’ll be more than just a counselor. You’ll be a mentor, leader, and role model, guiding campers through exciting activities and personal growth. From leading hikes to organizing engaging lessons, you’ll help foster a supportive and inclusive camp environment. Get ready to make a difference, build lifelong memories, and have an absolute blast doing it!
Key Responsibilities
Program Leadership & Camper Experience
Safety & Supervision
Logistics & Operations
Camp Programs
Overnight Camp Counselor
$550.00 / week
Keystone
Job Title: Discovery Overnight Camp Counselor
Compensation: $550/week, 5% increase for those fluent in both English and Spanish
Housing: Yes
Dates of Employment: May 26, 2026 - August 15, 2026
Reporting to: Overnight Camp Manager
Direct Reports: None
Position Summary
As a Discovery Overnight Camp Counselor at Keystone Science School, you'll lead campers through an unforgettable summer of adventure, exploration, and personal growth. Our Overnight Camp blends hands-on science with classic summer camp traditions like hiking, camping, archery, skits, and songs, creating a dynamic experience for campers in 1st–8th grade. In this role, you'll serve as a mentor, teacher, and role model, fostering a safe, inclusive, and exciting environment where campers can build confidence, teamwork, and outdoor skills. You'll live alongside campers in dorms or our canvas tent village, fully immersing yourself in the camp community.
Whether you're guiding a challenge hike, mentoring teens in our Counselor Assistant Program, or leading an evening "Candle Chat" reflection, you'll help shape a summer full of learning, growth, and unforgettable memories!
Key Responsibilities
Program Leadership & Camper Experience
Camper Supervision & Safety
Logistics & Operations
Adventure Programs
Adventure Instructor
$800.00 / week
Keystone
Job Title: Adventure Instructor
Compensation: $720/week, 5% increase for those fluent in both English and Spanish
Housing: Yes
Dates of Employment: May 11, 2026 - August 15, 2026
Reporting to: Adventure Manager
Direct Reports: None
Position Summary:
Keystone Science School’s Adventure Programs are immersive, multi-day experiences designed to build students’ confidence, outdoor skills, and sense of leadership through meaningful time in wild places. These 6–12 day expeditions take students into frontcountry and backcountry environments, where learning happens through challenge, teamwork, and exploration.
In this role, you’ll guide students through outdoor living skills, leadership development, and place-based environmental education while traveling through some of Colorado’s most inspiring landscapes. Adventure Instructors serve as teachers, mentors, and role models. You’ll support students’ personal growth, manage daily logistics, and uphold strong safety and risk management standards throughout each expedition.
This is a physically and mentally demanding role that requires energy, flexibility, and a deep commitment to creating meaningful, fun, and safe experiences for youth in the outdoors.
Key Responsibilities:
Field Instruction & Student Experience
Logistics & Program Operations
Safety & Risk Management
How to Apply
Ready to find yourself at the heart of Science. Adventure. and FUN!? Apply online or email HR@KeystoneScienceSchool.org for more info!
