Pacific Discovery offers experiential gap year semester and summer programs abroad to some of the most amazing places on earth. Our programs are deliberate overland journeys, blending authentic immersion in diverse cultures, meaningful service-learning projects, rewarding adventures, wilderness exploration, and personal development.
Students challenge themselves in a supportive small group environment, developing empathy for other cultures; furthering understanding of international issues; heightening appreciation for the earth’s wild places; deepening global perspectives; and discovering their own passion and purpose.
Being a program instructor for Pacific Discovery is a tremendous opportunity in terms of career development and personal growth. We invest in our instructors through comprehensive training, goal setting, access to expert consultants, and ongoing professional development tracks over the an instructor’s tenure with us. With 70 (semester) and 30 (summer) field-days each program, instructors gain deep experience in facilitating expedition and journeys. They are empowered to bring their own flavor and approach to the role, allowing them to develop a personal teaching philosophy and voice.
As one of the oldest organizations in the field, yet still a small intimate team, instructors’ level of exposure and insight is unparalleled. From training and support with issues of mental health to a robust and dynamic curriculum you’ll learn to teach, you could move from this role to outdoor education, student affairs/higher education, wilderness therapy, guiding, tourism management, or an administrative role in international education with ease.
It is no easy job, though – a Pacific Discovery program instructor is a leader, mentor, and facilitator. Working with a co-instructor, they are responsible for a group of up to 14 students (gap year and university students, aged 18-24 years) throughout 10-week semester programs and 4-week summer programs. This is a 24/7 role for the duration of the program with no scheduled time “off”. We look for passionate educators who are well travelled, comfortable with the varied components of the role, and empathetic and approachable to students and partner organizations alike.
As Program Instructor, your main focus is to ensure that programs run safely and smoothly while supporting students to have a transformational experience. The role encompasses:
student safety and welfare;
mentoring and role-modeling;
coordinating travel logistics;
budgeting and payments;
building relationships with in-country partners; and
facilitating experiential education elements – program curriculum and group reflection, service-learning projects, group dynamics, and in-country interpretation around environments, culture, history, sustainability.
We generally plan and recruit for Program Instructors up to 12 months in advance, so please contact us now if you are interested in a future position. We currently anticipate openings for the following programs, though we welcome applicants for all regions on a rolling basis.
Benefits & Activities:
- Have a life-changing adventure
Meals: Fresh, healthy, and varied based on local flavors
Housing: Varied from simple guest houses to modern hotels
Seasons: Year round (preference to those willing to commit to 2 years)
Positions:
- Program Instructors
Apply: Download application on employment page
Contact: operations@pacificdiscovery.org
