Science Teacher – Honors Natural Science (Summer Semester)

About NCOAE

The National Center for Outdoor & Adventure Education (NCOAE) provides transformative outdoor and academic experiences for students. Our programs blend rigorous academic coursework with experiential learning in natural environments to cultivate leadership, environmental stewardship, and critical thinking.

Position Overview

NCOAE seeks an experienced and passionate Science Teacher for our Summer 2025 Honors/Advanced Topic Natural Science course, offered during our 32-day Summer Semester. This role requires a dynamic educator who thrives in both classroom and outdoor environments. You will guide high school students through a curriculum that integrates scientific inquiry, field-based research, and experiential learning during both classroom andmulti-day backpacking and whitewater expeditions.

Key Responsibilities

Curriculum Delivery:

• Teach an advanced-level Natural Science course, covering topics such as ecology, environmental science, geology, and biology.
• Deliver instruction through classroom-based lessons, field research projects, and hands-on labs.
• Overnight/Free-time supervision of students while on campus-rotating with other NCOAE faculty
• Adapt teaching methods to engage diverse learners in both structured and unstructured settings.

Field-Based Instruction:

• Lead and support students during multi-day backpacking and whitewater trips, integrating course content into outdoor activities.
• Facilitate field-based research and data collection, emphasizing real-world applications of scientific concepts.
• Teach Leave No Trace (LNT) principles and environmental ethics.

Student Support:

• Foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment that promotes collaboration, resilience, and leadership.
• Guide students in developing scientific research skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.

Program Contribution:

• Collaborate with the NCOAE instructional team to ensure a cohesive and impactful semester experience.
• Ensure the safety and well-being of students in classroom and outdoor settings.
• Participate in pre-program training and post-program evaluation.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Natural Sciences (e.g., Biology, Environmental Science, Ecology, Geology) or a related field.
• Proven teaching experience, preferably at the Honors or Advanced Placement level.
• Experience leading multi-day outdoor expeditions, including backpacking and whitewater rafting.
• Strong knowledge of field-based research methods and outdoor labs.
• Current Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and CPR certifications (or willingness to obtain).

Preferred:

• Master’s degree in a related field or teaching credential-teaching license
• 3-5 years teaching science classes and labs
• Familiarity with outdoor education frameworks, including experiential learning and leadership development.
• Certifications in Outdoor Leadership, Leave No Trace (LNT), or related disciplines.
• Proficiency in Spanish (for Ecuador-based programs).

Key Attributes

• Passion for science education and outdoor adventure.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to inspire and mentor students in challenging environments.
• Commitment to safety, equity, and environmental stewardship.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive seasonal contract: $3,120-$3,670- commensurate with experience.
• Travel stipends and housing provided during on campus and field-based segments.
• Opportunities for professional growth in outdoor education and science teaching.