Environmental Science Educator

Who We Are:

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 have multiple locations across the country, and we are currently hiring for our Olympic National Park (Washington) location.

What You Will Do:

As an Environmental Science Educator, you will report to a campus Education Manager and provide student groups with meaningful experiences in the outdoors. Programming is guided by the integration of our three pillars: science, social and emotional learning, and equity, inclusion and diversity, as outlined in our Theory of Change. This position takes place completely on campus and does not allow for remote work. 

Your primary job will be to:

• 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’ lived experiences.
• Create and lead differentiated programming, including 2-3 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, volunteers, and participants.
• 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.
• Participate in continuous professional development, as well as personal and professional goal-setting.
• For those in provided housing, follow NatureBridge housing policies and work agreements; cultivate a respectful home environment by setting and being accountable to agreements and boundaries among housemates. 
• Fulfill other duties as assigned, such as supporting donor engagement events, program support tasks, providing feedback on special projects, participating in campus beautification or attending conferences.

Compensation:

• $15/hour, daily and weekly work hours vary based on programming demand. This position is considered full time. Positions may be exempt or non-exempt depending on campus location.
• Full benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plan, and paid vacation, training days, and sick leave.
• Housing may be provided as a benefit of employment. By providing housing, NatureBridge can ensure that educators are available and accessible to provide support for program participants in emergency situations, and that educators can work odd hours and split shifts required during typical programs.

Who You Are:

We are looking for candidates who have:

• At least 1 year of relevant formal or informal teaching experience, including environmental education, science education, or residential outdoor education.
• 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 stakeholders, including students, coworkers, supervisors, and educational partners.
• A desire to learn and grow, and an openness to feedback and coaching.
• A valid Wilderness First Responder Certification or a willingness to attain the certification prior to the start date.
• 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
• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent education, training, or experience in science, environmental or multidisciplinary studies, or a relevant field.
• Ability to work flexible hours and split shifts, including evenings and occasional weekends.

*All NatureBridge Employees are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19. Final shot must occur 15 days or more before the start date. Here is the link to our full policy: NatureBridge COVID-19 Vaccination Policy. You must also 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, as well as a living wage and benefits