Job Description
Join our team of winter enthusiasts at the Strathcona Wilderness Centre! We’re hiring for two roles—Outdoor Instructor I and II—to support the delivery of engaging winter programs and environmental education that connect our community to the outdoors.
The Outdoor Instructor I position is based out of the Strathcona Wilderness Centre. This position will be responsible for supporting the Outdoor Instructor II with planning and delivering high-quality outdoor recreation and environmental education programs, and events for the community. General responsibilities will include leading programs, participation in training programs for the sharing of information and/or improving skills and knowledge while maintaining a safe environment.
The Outdoor Instructor II position is based out of the Strathcona Wilderness Centre. This position is responsible for coordinating, planning, leading and evaluating high-quality outdoor recreation and environmental education programs, and events for the community. General responsibilities will include training and mentorship of staff, program development, as well as ensuring a safe environment for participants by following OHS polices, practices, guidelines, and procedures.
We are seeking multiple positions for Outdoor Instructors.
These positions are seasonal starting in December with an expected end date of March 31, 2025.
Responsibilities:
Instructor I
- Support the planning, leading, and delivery of high-quality outdoor recreation and environmental education programs for public, school, and community groups, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, winter outdoor skills, and play-based exploration.
- Collaborate to create flexible, engaging activity schedules and contribute to effective planning and teamwork.
- Assist with managing communications, forms, and documents for participants, parents, and guardians to ensure clear and consistent information.
- Foster a positive, safe, and welcoming environment by modeling appropriate behaviors and adapting teaching methods to support participant learning and development.
- Actively participate in training sessions to enhance skills, share knowledge, and promote a respectful, valued experience for all guests and program participants.
Instructor II (Lead Instructor)
- Oversee and coordinate the planning, leading, and evaluation of outdoor programs and events, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, winter skills, and play-based exploration, ensuring they are engaging and meet community and educational objectives.
- Manage all communications, forms, and documentation for school groups, community participants, and event attendees, ensuring clear and consistent information.
- Mentor and train staff, supporting their professional development and providing guidance on program delivery and participant engagement.
- Maintain a safe environment for participants by conducting regular inspections, following OHS policies, and promptly addressing safety concerns.
- Ensure program areas and equipment are prepared and well-maintained, including regular inventory checks, cleaning, and setup to support smooth and effective program operations.
Qualifications and Skills:
- Post-secondary education in Physical Education, Kinesiology, Recreation, Tourism, Environmental Studies, or related field (in progress or completed)
- Minimum 2 years of experience in outdoor skills, adventure education, and/or environmental education program planning and delivery (for Outdoor Instructor II position)
- Proven experience working with youth and delivering outdoor skills or environmental education programs
- Certification in Standard First Aid/CPR ‘C’, WHMIS
- Additional certifications (asset):
- Wilderness First Aid Certification
- Canadian Association of Nordic Ski Instructors (CANSI) and, National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) Cross Country Skiing.
- Strong communicator with a positive, professional attitude, working effectively with diverse groups (participants, parents, staff, volunteers)
- Skilled in customer service and problem-solving
- Experienced in supporting and leading teams (staff, volunteers)
- Engages participants in decision-making and program activities
- Incorporates environmental stewardship and physical literacy into programs, and events.
- Able to address varied participant needs and plan events/programs accordingly
- Effective in planning and project execution
- Capable of working independently in a dynamic, changing environment
Conditions of Employment:
- Submission of a Satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Check and Child Intervention Record Check
- Valid Alberta Class 5 Driver’s licence and submission of a 5-year Driver’s Abstract with less than 7 demerits
Who we are:
Strathcona County is a specialized municipality located in the heart of Alberta. Our vision is to become Canada’s most livable community, where our workplace culture and identity are supported by our people plan and values of integrity, respect, safety, fairness, and cooperation.
Why Join Strathcona County:
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
- Health and wellness spending account
- Employee and family assistance program
- Commitment to employee development, through internal and external training and development opportunities.
- Well-being programs and a safety culture focused on physical and psychological health in the workplace.
Equivalencies of education and experience may be considered.
This competition may be used to fill future vacancies for similar positions within the next 6 months.
Strathcona County is committed to an inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace that represents the community we serve. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who can contribute diverse perspectives and experiences.
We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
