Outdoor School Instructor

In partnership with Mount Rainier National Park, the University of Washington operates the Mount Rainier Institute. Mount Rainier Institute is an overnight outdoor school program. Our mission is to provide outstanding nature-based education experiences that are rooted in science and nurture the next generation of environmental stewards and leaders. We are looking for skilled educators to continue the development of an exceptional environmental education program with one of the nation’s iconic National Parks.

Environmental Education Instructors lead youth and adults through inquiry-based field science investigations and teach a variety of topics such as climate change, natural history, geology, forestry, resource management, and cultural history of the Pacific Northwest. This is an excellent opportunity to be part of the ongoing developing outdoor school program.

Term of Position: Spring 2025 season starts in early-March through June 6. May involve weekend and evening hours. Shared housing will be provided for a modest monthly rental fee.

Mount Rainier Institute is committed to diversity. We welcome qualified applicants regardless of race, religion, color, sexual orientation, or gender.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• 80% Lead students grades 3-12 through Mount Rainier Institute’s experiential learning programs focusing on inquiry-based field science investigations and the natural and cultural history of the Mount Rainier region. This includes cultivating a positive, inclusive, multi-cultural, student-centered learning environment that inspires community development, scientific and environmental literacy, and a sense of place. Also includes evening and weekend programs as needed
• 5% Assist in the design of customized environmental and science education programs based on the needs of each school group and the Mount Rainier Institute programmatic framework
• 5% Attend training and regularly scheduled staff meetings and positively contribute to the staff community
• 5% Ensure the safety and well-being of program participants
• 5% Assist with other duties as required. This may include forest operations work such as measuring of forest inventory plots, tree planting, and tagging seedlings

REQUIREMENTS:

• BA/BS in Education, Outdoor or Environmental Education, Resource Interpretation, Environmental Sciences, Environmental Studies, Forestry, Natural Resources, Biology, multi-disciplinary studies or a related field, or comparable experience
• One or two years of relevant teaching experience, preferably outdoor
• Working knowledge of inquiry-based scientific field study techniques
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Physically able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and hike several miles at elevation
• Great independent worker and team player
• Current First Aid and CPR certification

DESIRED:

• Extensive experience in classroom teaching, outdoor environmental education, residential environmental learning centers, national parks, or nature centers
• Wilderness First Responder certification
• Knowledge of the natural history of the Pacific Northwest
• Ability to teach in another language

COMPENSATION:
$21.17 per hour, subsidized housing, meals when MRI groups are in residence, paid leave and holidays, potentially eligible for health benefits after one full season.