Educator

HAWKs (Hiking Adventures With Kids) Lake Norman – Educator  

Reports to: Field Operations Manager / Franchise Owner  
Location: Charlotte – Lake Norman – Cornelius – Huntersville – Davidson – Mooresville 
Position Type: Part-Time or Full-Time  

Role Overview  

HAWKs Educators lead small groups of children on hikes and outdoor activities, teaching nature-based lessons while inspiring curiosity, confidence, and environmental stewardship. Educators are responsible for creating a fun, safe, and engaging learning experience while helping explorers build community and forge connections with nature.  

This role is hands-on, outdoors, and collaborative.  

 Key Responsibilities  

Program Delivery & Group Leadership 

• Lead groups of 8–14 explorers (ages 5–12) with a co-educator on hikes, with games, and hands-on activities.
• Teach nature-based lessons focused on ecological systems, environmental science, and conservation.
• Lead nature-themed games, songs, crafts, and activities that inspire curiosity and creativity.
• Teach and model trail safety and Leave No Trace principles during all programming.
• Adapt activities to the age, interests, and skill level of each group to ensure a positive learning experience.

Safety & Risk Management 

• Ensure the physical and emotional safety of all explorers during hikes and programming.
• Monitor group dynamics and diffuse conflicts between participants as needed.
• Lead children safely across varied terrain, including streams, steep trails, and wildlife habitats.
• Carry and manage a first aid kit, water bladder, and other field essentials during all programs. 

Family & Team Communication 

• Communicate with parents and caregivers before and after programming using the registration and messaging platform.
• Provide updates on explorers’ experiences, highlights from the day, and any concerns.
• Collaborate closely with co-educators and senior team members to ensure seamless program delivery.

Contribution to HAWKs Culture 

• Create a positive, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all explorers.
• Act as an ambassador for HAWKs’ mission, modeling environmental awareness and respect for nature.
• Support fellow educators and share knowledge, tips, and techniques to strengthen the team’s collective impact.

Qualifications  

Education & Experience  

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, education, biology, or related fields preferred.
• Previous experience working with children or in outdoor education strongly preferred.

Skills & Competencies  

• Passion for nature-based learning and inspiring children to connect with the environment.
• Creative and engaging teaching style, able to make complex topics fun and accessible.
• Ability to identify and support the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs of explorers.

Physical Requirements  

• Ability to hike 5–8 miles while carrying a day backpack with water, first aid supplies, and materials.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds as needed for program setup and support.
• Additional Requirements
• Fluency in local ecosystems, native plants, and wildlife preferred.
• Reliable transportation to programming locations.
• Current CPR/First Aid certification (required or obtained within 90 days).
• Wilderness First Aid certification is a plus.
• Punctual, dependable, and enthusiastic about working outdoors.

Success in This Role Looks Like  

• Explorers are safe, engaged, and inspired during every program.
• Families feel informed and connected to their child’s experience.
• Programming is delivered consistently and reflects HAWKs’ values and curriculum.
• Educators create a supportive, collaborative environment for participants and fellow team members.