Environmental Science Educator

Have you always wanted to work in a National Park? Are you a passionate, dedicated educator who is enthusiastic about working with kids? Apply today! 

About the Position

NatureBridge provides environmental science education experiences for more than 30,000 students and their teachers every year in the world’s best classrooms: our National Parks. Our mission is to connect young people to the science and wonder of the natural world, igniting self-discovery, and inspiring stewardship of the planet. 

We are currently hiring for our campus located in Prince William Forest Park (Dumfries, Virginia).

This is a part-time, temporary position scheduled for up to 24 hours/week, and includes training.. We are hiring for our Fall season: August 30 – mid-November, 2024

Tasks and functions

During Program: 

• Use a student-centered approach to lead participants through multi-day, hands-on, experiential & investigative learning in outdoor settings.
• Cultivate an inclusive learning environment by delivering culturally relevant content that presents multiple perspectives and connects to students’ background.
• Create and lead differentiated programming, including 1-3 evening programs a week, that honor the needs and backgrounds of each group of participants.
• Manage students’ physical safety in outdoor settings using sound judgment and applying appropriate risk management decisions.
• Work to support an inclusive workplace community by establishing and maintaining respectful, supportive, and compassionate relationships with staff and participants.

Outside of Program:

• Participate in continuous professional development, as well as personal and professional goal-setting.
• Keep records and assessments of student experiences in order to provide insight on student learning and program outcomes, as well as to share stories from the field with staff, board members, and donors.
• Fulfill other duties as assigned, such as supporting school visits, program support tasks, providing feedback on special projects, and participating in campus stewardship.

NatureBridge Educator Schedule: Video: A Day in the LIfe of an Educator

Environmental Science Educator (ESE) schedule varies week-to-week. ESEs can expect to deliver environmental science and team-building programs from 9am – 4pm for 3-day programs Monday – Friday, with variability during schools’ arrival and departure days. ESEs also run evening programs 1-3 times a week from 6:30pm – 8:30pm. On a regular program day, the ESE receives up to 30 minutes of paid preparation time. ESEs attend regular meetings with other ESEs, the education manager, and operations team to discuss program updates and collaborative feedback to the community workplace. In addition to educational responsibilities, ESEs help in other departments when needed or asked.

Compensation:

• $22.61/hour, daily and weekly work hours vary based on programming demand.
• Option for a 403b retirement plan
• Paid training days and sick leave.

Eligibility Requirements and Qualifications

We are looking for candidates who have:

• At least 1 year of relevant formal or informal teaching experience
• The social and emotional skills to build rapport and positive relationships with people from all backgrounds, abilities, cultures, orientations, identities and communities.
• A demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion within your teaching and workplace community. We especially encourage you to apply if you have lived experience as a member of (and/or extensive experience working with people from) any communities that are impacted by the historic and current system of oppression that has limited access to environmental education, or the outdoors in general.
• The ability to communicate clearly to different groups, including students, coworkers, supervisors, and educational partners.
• A desire to learn and grow, and an openness to feedback and coaching.
• A valid Wilderness First Aid Certification or a willingness to attain the certification prior to the start date. Tuition Aid is available to hired candidates to offset costs of a re/certification.
• The ability and willingness to perform physically challenging work outdoors and in all weather conditions on uneven terrain; able to hike 5-7 miles in uneven terrain
• Ability to work flexible hours and split shifts, including evenings.

*All NatureBridge Employees are required to pass a background check in order to be eligible for employment.

Why should you join the NatureBridge team?

• We are a mission-driven organization that values your contributions and supports you in making a positive impact on youth and the environment
• You will get to work in a beautiful natural setting with other dedicated educators who are passionate about the environment
• We are invested in supporting our educators through professional development & mentorship.

NatureBridge is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate based on any protected category, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, gender, gender expression (including transgender expression or pregnancy), political affiliation, age, immigration status or disability. We encourage qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. Please let us know if you require any accommodation.