Field Educator

Job Description Summary

Laguna Canyon Foundation’s Field Educators bring the South Coast Wilderness to life for local and Title I elementary school students through immersive, hands-on field trips. Over the school year, we will host approximately 80 half-day trips. Each Field Educator will guide 10–15 students, plus their teachers and chaperones, on educational hikes filled with exploration, discovery, and fun.

Field Educators foster curiosity and scientific thinking while helping students build ecological knowledge and a lasting appreciation for protecting wilderness areas. Each grade-specific trip is thoughtfully designed to align with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and to progress with students who return to our program year after year. Lessons focus on topics such as adaptation, observation, habitats, geology, and ecological systems, providing students with both the understanding and inspiration to continue exploring the natural world wherever they go.

Duties and Responsibilities 

• Commit to lead at least 2 educational hikes a week, typically on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings, when school is in session and weather permits.
• Deliver grade-specific, NGSS-aligned lessons, following established program guidelines.
• Attend quarterly meetings on designated Thursdays from 1:30-3:30.
• Encourage engagement, observations, and wonder with each student.
• Perform other teaching duties as occasional training and programs may be requested on dates outside the typical program schedule.

Requirements

• Commitment to the vision and mission of Laguna Canyon Foundation.
• Demonstrated experience working with children of a variety of ages in an outdoor environment, showing patience and kindness.
• Strong interpersonal skills with a focus on creating welcoming and cooperative interactions with team members, teachers, and parents.
• Punctuality, flexibility, and dependability.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to hike up to 3-4 miles on rough terrain in various conditions.
• CPR/First Aid certification (LCF will be offered as part of the onboarding).
  • A background check will be required.
• 18 years or older.
• Access to reliable transportation to arrive on time for shifts.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

• Knowledge of local plant and animal life and ability to memorize and recall facts, figures, and information. LCF will provide training and materials.
• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university with coursework in environmental studies, sustainability, science, or a related field.
• Ability to speak Spanish.