ISDSI runs community based study abroad programs that center the voices of the marginalized.  We are looking for field instructors who can help facilitate teaching about culture and ecology, live and learn in remote villages, backpack into mountain tribal communities, and sea kayak, snorkel and explore the coasts and islands of Southern Thailand.

We are looking to recruit highly experienced and qualified field instructors.

ISDSI programs are university courses for credit, and blend together challenging academic study with outdoor experiential learning. Field Instructors at ISDSI are facilitators of this learning experience with students, helping students to learn about the development, ecology, and cultures of Thailand, while connecting deeply with local communities.

Since we are a cross-cultural program, we require a cross-cultural team. We have Southeast Asian as well as American Field instructors.

Job Requirements

• Masters degree (MA or MS) or equivalent experience in a field related to ecology, environment, social sciences, outdoor leadership, intercultural education, or similar. Other fields are considered based on relevance.
• 3+ years of  experience in development, education, guiding, or significant cross-cultural experience.
• Fluent speaking, reading/writing in English.  Thai language skills a plus.  If you do not speak Thai you will be enrolled in an intensive Thai program for the first six months at ISDSI. Thai nationals are required to demonstrate proficiency and fluency in spoken and written English.
• International school or international education experience preferred.
• Experience with remote travel, including experience backpacking, paddling, sea kayaking, etc.
• Demonstrated respect for local cultures, and a willingness to live with and learn from local people without imposing your own preferences.
• High tolerance for ambiguity, adversity, and uncertainty, and good judgement in difficult situations.
• Preferred training in First Aid, Wilderness First Responder, Leadership, etc.
• Should be skilled with computers and software.
• Skills preferred include hiking, swimming, kayaking, etc. Because we run water-based courses in the islands, the applicant should be a strong swimmer and be comfortable in water and around boats.

Responsibilities

• Field instructor for courses during the semester facilitating student academic learning inside and outside the classroom, collaborating with professors and local leaders in the field
• Facilitate student cross-cultural adjustment and engagement
• Prepare and plan course academics, schedules, transportation, budgets, and other course details and logistics
• Assist with grading course requirements for students, both written essays and oral presentations
• Organize and manage essential materials for field course learning, i.e. expedition gear, medical supplies, course books and readings, etc.
• Care for student medical needs while on field courses
• Oversee and create a positive learning environment for student group on field courses and at ISDSI
• Set an example for students in endurance and in the acceptance of physical challenges

Terms

• Compensation based on experience and highest degree earned
• Health insurance,  social security, and a provident fund are included
• Professional training provided for job specific skills, including risk management, wilderness medicine, etc.
• 2 year contract with the first semester as probation. A successful candidate can expect to work multiple 4 week courses per semester.
• For non-Thai nationals one round-trip airfare to their home country every 2 years.  This will typically be in-bound at the start of the contract and out-bound at the end of the first 2 year term.

Applying

Interested people should email us at [email protected] explaining why you are interested in becoming a field instructor.

1. Please include your CV with relevant experience and skills.
2. Two references are required.
3. Please also look at our semester courses, and tell us which specific courses you are interested in and why.