Outdoor Education Specialist

Outdoor Education Specialist
Families & Youth Innovations Plus (FYI+)
Position: Part-Time
Hourly Rate: $17.00 - $20.57 (3 levels based on experience and education)
FLSA Status: Hourly/Non-Exempt
Reports To: Program Manager
Department: Outdoor Legacy Program
Job Summary
As an Outdoor Education Specialist, works with youth participating in FYI+'s Outdoor Equity Project. An Outdoor Education Specialist leads outdoor programming and activities that build outdoor skills, confidence, and connection to nature, while supporting youth well-being and expanding access to the outdoors for families who face barriers to these experiences. An Outdoor Education Specialist works closely with FYI+ program staff, behavioral health teams, and community partners such as local parks and land management agencies, schools, and youth-serving organizations to better serve youth and families most in need.
Work with youth is conducted primarily outdoors — on trails, at parks, and at outdoor program sites — as well as at FYI+ program locations. This role requires travel throughout Doña Ana County, including rural sites such as Anthony and the Hatch Valley.
What you’ll Do:
Plan, prepare, and lead outdoor programming and activities for youth, including hikes, camping trips, nature walks, and environmental education sessions
Develop age-appropriate, culturally responsive curricula and activity plans that build outdoor skills, environmental awareness, and connection to nature
Ensure participant safety on all outdoor outings, including risk assessment, first aid readiness, weather monitoring, and adherence to FYI+ safety protocols
Coordinate logistics for outdoor programming, including transportation, gear and equipment, permits, and site selection
Maintain outdoor equipment and gear inventory in good working condition
Manage inventory and organization of the Outdoor Legacy Project Closet, including equipment check-in/check-out.
Build relationships with youth participants and families to encourage consistent engagement and a sense of belonging in outdoor spaces
Collaborate with FYI+ program staff, navigators, and behavioral health teams to align outdoor programming with participants' broader goals and needs
Track attendance, participation, and program outcomes; maintain accurate records for internal use and funder reporting
Identify and maintain partnerships with local parks, land management agencies, and outdoor organizations to expand access to sites and resources
Support outreach and recruitment efforts to engage youth and families who have historically faced barriers to outdoor recreation
Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development as required
Perform other duties as assigned in support of the Outdoor Equity Project and FYI+'s mission
What You Need:
Bachelor's Degree in outdoor recreation, environmental education, youth development, or a related field preferred; equivalent combination of education and direct experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
High school diploma or equivalent required with 4 years of experience
Must pass a CYFD Criminal Records Check
Maintain full certification in CPR/First Aid
Maintain a valid NM Driver's License
Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder certification required, or must be obtained within 90 days of hire
Maintain full certification in CPI
Preferred: Bilingual (English/Spanish)

Employment type
Part-Time

Work arrangement
No