SpiritLife Inc. is seeking a passionate, organized, and energetic Therapeutic Outdoor Specialist to lead and expand our outdoor experiential programming for individuals in recovery from substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders.
This full-time position combines hands-on leadership of outdoor recreation and nature-based therapeutic activities with program planning, administrative coordination, and team leadership. Working under the direction of the Program Director, the Therapeutic Outdoor Specialist will oversee daily outdoor programming and help grow SpiritLife's experiential therapy offerings to serve more clients and provide meaningful experiences.
The ideal candidate is comfortable working outdoors in all seasons, enjoys building relationships with participants and colleagues, and believes in the healing power of nature, movement, creativity, and community.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to work outdoors year-round in varying weather conditions.
- Ability to walk uneven terrain, hike moderate distances, and safely participate in outdoor recreation activities.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to load, unload, and transport outdoor recreation equipment.
- Ability to safely supervise groups during outdoor activities.
Duties and Responsibilities
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
- Design, coordinate, and facilitate engaging outdoor recreation, nature-based therapeutic activities, and seasonal wellness programs for clients.
- Foster a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment that encourages personal growth and recovery.
- Ensure all activities follow established safety protocols and risk management procedures.
- Inspect, maintain, and organize outdoor recreation equipment and supplies.
- Monitor weather conditions and modify programming as needed.
- Collaborate with counselors and treatment teams to integrate experiential programming.
- Develop new outdoor and wellness programming that enhances SpiritLife's holistic treatment model.
- Assist with scheduling programs, managing activity calendars, and coordinating logistics.
- Maintain accurate participation records, program documentation, and client information within organizational databases.
- Assist with purchasing, inventory management, budgeting, and organization of program materials.
- Participate in treatment team meetings, staff meetings, trainings, and organizational initiatives.
Qualifications
Preferred qualifications include:
- Bachelor's degree in recreation therapy, parks and recreation, environmental education, outdoor leadership, occupational therapy, or a related field (preferred).
- Demonstrated experience leading outdoor recreation or experiential learning programs.
- Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating with an interdisciplinary team.
- Experience with mindfulness practices or nature-based wellness activities is highly desirable.
- Positive, optimistic attitude with a genuine passion for helping others grow and succeed in their recovery journey.
- Flexible, adaptable, and solution-oriented, with the ability to adjust programming and priorities in response to changing client needs, weather conditions, and organizational demands.
- Demonstrated ability to remain calm, professional, and creative in dynamic or unpredictable situations.
Pay: $14.00 - $17.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Please describe your educational background, including your degree(s), field of study, and any relevant certifications.
- Are you comfortable facilitating activities for groups of up to 15–20 participants?
- When would you be available to begin employment if selected for this position?
Ability to Commute:
Work Location: In person