Outdoor Education Opportunity in Clifton, Virginia!!

Love the outdoors?! Make it your job at Horizons at Hemlock! We are now hiring for Fall 2026!

Spring season runs mid-August through November.

We are looking for curious, caring, and hardworking staff to lead groups through outdoor education, including environmental education, team building, adventure trips, and more. You’ll develop your skills and love of the outdoors while providing unforgettable experiences for students, scouts, and adult groups.

Apply now to join our outdoor education family and let the adventure begin!

Hemlock Program Instructors are responsible for the care and management of groups while delivering high-quality outdoor programming. They are expected to create a positive atmosphere while establishing opportunities for experiential learning and authentic growth for students and clients. Our clients include public and private schools, colleges and universities, scout groups, and specialty retreats. Instructors will also be responsible for the logistics before, during, and after a group stay. This includes preparing program areas and facilities, facilitating meals and transitions, developing programming, cleaning, and general maintenance. 

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Leads activities in team building, environmental classes, evening programming, field games and more; facilitates high and low rope courses; inspects equipment throughout use to ensure it meets safety standards

• Supports user groups in all aspects; helps user groups establish and achieve goals for their experience

• Promotes a safe environment where individuals will feel comfortable challenging themselves

• Recognizes and responds to opportunities for problem solving with the group

EXPERIENCE:

• 1-year outdoor recreation experience or camp counselor preferred

• Experience working with children preferred (formally or informally)

• Must have experience or comfort with outdoor education, recreation activity, and adventure skills (camping, climbing, paddling, hiking, etc.)

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be 18 and have High School diploma or equivalent (21+ years of age preferred)

• Must have good driving record and ability to drive a 15-passenger van (training provided)

• Current First Aid and CPR certifications preferred

• Successful completion of a criminal background check

PERKS:

• Paid, high-quality training

• Pay raise for relevant certifications (Lifeguard, WFA, WFR, etc.)

• Meals provided during training and overnight programs

• Rent camp equipment and use facilities in your free time

• Discounts at related facilities and ProOutdoorLinks.com

• Returner bonus!

Terms and Compensation:
The fall season at Hemlock Overlook is mid-August through November. Program Instructors should be available for work full days (no half days available), but we can work with your schedule. Only available weekends? Need to work around classes on specific days of the week? Reach out!

Base pay is $105/day, with a $5.00 increment added for each previous season of employment at Horizons, and with each relevant and current national certification.* In the event of program changes, cancellations, or open days during the operating season, Program Instructors may be assigned tasks in facility or equipment maintenance, customer service, hospitality, clerical, or program development.

Training:
All Program Instructors participate in mandatory paid training at the start of each season, with meals provided. Training will be paid as long as the training is completed in its entirety. Training will not be paid if separation of employment happens prior to the end of training.