Summary

Field Instructors oversee the safety, quality and educational effectiveness of programs. Assistant Instructors carry out all instructor responsibilities while under the training of Instructors, Course Directors and other program staff.

The Twin Cities Base delivers both multi-day (Expedition) and day-long (Insight) experiential education programming. These programs work with a diverse spectrum of students across an array of high impact activities including: urban adventure, canoeing, rock climbing, challenge course, environmental service, orienteering, and winter programs. Programming focuses on self-discovery, problem-solving, team development, collaboration, and communication in small group settings.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

MISSION DELIVERY

• Understands and supports VOBS values and mission with students and staff
• Strong commitment to professional development and personal growth
• Support an equitable environment that promotes inclusion of all team members

STUDENT ENGAGEMENT/MANAGEMENT

• Under supervision of Instructor and Course Director, collaborate to design and implement experiential education programs that are in line with VOBS mission and educational philosophy and are tailored to the particular student population or group.
• Build rapport and maintain rapport with diverse student groups
• Teach and utilize conflict management & communication skills for groups and individuals
• Support and maintain a positive tone that fosters mutual engagement between students and staff

SAFETY/JUDGEMENT

• Sufficiently fit to participate in all activities of course with reserve energy to support students
• Role model safety and awareness during all course activities. Support physical and emotional safety of students and staff.
• Able to differentiate between personal and institutional standards. Understands and follows local operating procedures, safety policies and emergency procedures as outlined in the field staff manual
• Assess students’ ability and the hazards of conditions or activity to ensure all programs are safe and appropriate

EXPEDITION SKILLS

• Competency in expedition skills including canoeing, portaging, backpacking, campcraft, map and compass navigation, expedition logistics and decision-making, and ability to teach & model these skills to students.
• Can manage their personal needs and self-care without negatively impacting the student experience
• Ability to lift, carry, and move upwards of 75 pounds, often with the help of another person
• Ability to participate in moderate to rigorous physical activity including, but not limited to, paddling, backpacking, running, carrying canoes overland, swimming, or rock climbing. High-output activity levels and outdoor exposure is varying weather conditions required, especially during emergency situations.

INTERPERSONAL SKILLS

• Provide clear, effective and timely communication with co-instructor, Course Director and other staff.
• Ability to be flexible and positive in a dynamic, team-oriented work environment.
• Can adapt communication skills and techniques to environment and student population.

TRAINEE

• Participate in all required staff training including travel training, Professional Learning Lab educational training, technical training, Staff Orientation, wilderness water safety, and pre-course training (if applicable).
• Growth-oriented mindset in pursuing self-development as well as the growth of fellow staff.