Wilderness Retreat Leader

About Us

Vermont Huts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to foster a deeper appreciation for our natural environment and strengthen Vermont’s communities by providing enriching and immersive outdoor experiences for all. We work to increase access to outdoor recreation and actively support rural economies throughout Vermont. To do that, we’re creating the country’s most innovative statewide, hut-supported trail network, intentionally routed into local communities and linking existing networks.

Our values guide us in every aspect from big-picture planning to daily activities, including our hiring process. Our core values include meaningful partnerships, equity and belonging, a healthy work/life balance, and perseverance.

We’re looking for someone who not only shares our passion for outdoor recreation but is also excited to wear many hats, work closely and collaboratively with our existing staff of eight, and create new points of access to the outdoors.

The FOREST Program mission is to inspire future environmental stewards and ambassadors by providing equitable and accessible opportunities for all people to connect with the outdoors. These programs provide educational and recreational experiences for deserving communities that are identified through strategic partnerships.

The Position

The FOREST Program Leader is a per diem position scheduled on an as needed basis. Program Leaders will work with diverse groups of participants from various types of organizations. Programs range from a single day, to a multi-day program that typically includes overnight programming. 

We are seeking a dynamic individual who is passionate about working with groups outdoors in recreational and educational settings. Program Leaders will work closely with the FOREST Program Director to plan, implement, and report FOREST Programs. Program Leaders should possess:

• A desire to lead, motivate, and manage groups of varying ages, abilities, and backgrounds. 
• Experience leading groups in education, outdoor education, environmental or other related programming. 
• Excellent communication & leadership skills
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail
• Proficiency in outdoor recreational activities such as; hiking, camping, mountain biking, etc. 
• Proficient backcountry travel and outdoor skills, ability to perform in a variety of conditions. 

Essential Job Functions

• Develop and lead outdoor educational and recreational programming.
• Work with Partner Organizations and the FOREST Director to design and implement program itineraries and activities based on the needs and goals of the participant group.
• Ability to work within a budget to plan, purchase, and manage food for the duration of the program. 
• Be familiar with and operate within the VHT FOREST Program Leader Field Manual.
• Ensure all relevant paperwork is completed in their entirety and in a timely manner.
• Manage and maintain outdoor education equipment & supplies.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative learning environment that promotes inter- and intra-personal development.
• Promote environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.
• Monitor and ensure safety and well–being of all participants. 
• Provide first aid and emergency/incident response when required. 

Location

In-person field programming may occur throughout the state of Vermont at VHT owned or managed venues, at partner organizations, or municipal, state, and federal lands. Administrative work may be completed remotely, however welcome to work in the VHT office in Waterbury, VT.  

Minimum Experience

• At least 18 years of age
• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Appropriate physical condition, must be able to self-manage while managing the group in austere environments.
• A reliable form of transportation to get yourself and necessary program equipment to the program site. 
• Knowledge of and commitment to Leave No Trace principles. 
• Ability to monitor environmental conditions and hazards before and during the program. 
• Current First Aid & CPR Certification

Preferred Experience

• Associates or Bachelors Degree in Outdoor Education, Education, Environmental Science or other related field.
• Wilderness First Aid, First Responder, or WEMT Training & Certification
• Adventure Sport Specific Instructor Level Credentialing

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive Compensation: $350/Day
• Travel Reimbursement to and from Program Venue at Federal mileage reimbursement rate.
• Program Food Reimbursement up to 100% of the budget or otherwise approved by the FOREST Program Director. 
• Professional Development Opportunities
• One (1) discounted night @ 50% for VHT Network Annually

To Apply

If you’re passionate about creating an enriching outdoor experience for everyone, please submit a cover letter and resume to info@vermonthuts.org with the subject line: FOREST Program Leader – Last Name, First Name. We look forward to hearing from you.

Vermont Huts Association is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from women, people of color, ethnic minorities, LGBTQ, and persons with disabilities.

As an organization, our mission is to make outdoor recreation accessible to all through our growing network of backcountry huts and trails. Specifically, our FOREST Program partners with other nonprofits, schools, and communities to actively invite underserved youth and other historically marginalized communities onto the trails and into our huts entirely free of charge. We provide transportation, gear, and food along with an outdoor educator and curriculum tailored to suit the participants. The program aims to introduce students and those who have been previously excluded to outdoor recreation in a safe and welcoming way, encouraging lifelong participation and stewardship of their natural environment.