About the Position

The Corvallis Environmental Center is seeking a part-time Nature Programs Educator to join our education team. This position will primarily support PAGES/PAGÍNAS, an afterschool program offered in partnership with local elementary schools. 

The Nature Programs Educator will work directly in classrooms three afternoons per week, leading small group rotations of elementary-aged students. Educators independently plan and facilitate engaging, hands-on lessons and enrichment activities with an emphasis on ecology, science, nature connection, skill building, and more. 

The ideal candidate enjoys working with elementary-aged children and is confident in taking the lead with a group. They are engaging, dependable, and able to build positive relationships with students while managing group dynamics, and adapting activities to meet students’ needs. A successful candidate is comfortable working independently while also communicating and collaborating effectively with school and CEC staff.

The position may occasionally support other CEC education programs, including custom nature programs, School’s Out Adventures, field trips, outreach events, and Farm to School programs. There is an opportunity to continue working full-time during our summer camp season.

Reports to: Nature Programs and Camps Coordinator

Employment Type:  Part-time, 15-20 hours per week (through mid-June)

          Full time, 30+ hours per week (mid-June through August)

Pay Rate: $18 - $18.75 per hour DOE          

Location: Corvallis, Oregon

Hours: Typically M-Th afternoons (1pm-5:30pm) during the school year, with occasional morning programs or evening events. 

Job Responsibilities

• Lead engaging lessons, games, and hands-on environmental education activities for groups of elementary-aged students.
• Create a positive, inclusive learning environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to participate. 
• Manage group behavior and transitions using positive, age appropriate strategies.
• Adapt activities to meet the needs of individual students and groups.
• Communicate professionally with children, families, coworkers, community partners, interns, and volunteers.
• Prepare materials and help maintain organized program spaces.
• Occasionally participate in outreach events, staff meetings, trainings, and other CEC programs.
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• At least one year of experience independently leading or facilitating activities for groups of elementary-aged children in settings such as camps, after-school programs, classrooms, recreation programs, or similar environments. 
• Ability to build positive relationships with children while maintaining appropriate boundaries, expectations, and group safety.
• Ability to take initiative, exercise good judgment, and remain calm and flexible in a dynamic environment.
• Dependable and able to follow through on responsibilities, communicate proactively, and work independently while knowing when to seek support. 
• Able to work collaboratively, receive feedback, and contribute positively to a team.
• Interest in nature, science, environmental education, or hands-on learning.
• Commitment to creating a welcoming and respectful environment for children and families from diverse backgrounds.
• Access to reliable transportation
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• First Aid/CPR certified by time of employment
• Preference given to applicants who are bilingual (Spanish and English)