Nature-Based Program Instructor

Wildwoods is seeking passionate and experienced educators to deliver nature-based education programs. Once trained, applicants are assigned programs based on reservations. 

Please Note: This is a part-time job and hours vary weekly.


Program Description 
Our program assignments range from half-day programs to multi-day programs, working primarily with elementary-aged children, and some younger students (Kindergarten-aged), and families.



With a slightly different focus than traditional environmental education, all of our programs are built around our mission of "Enriching Lives Through Nature." The intent of our programs is that participants learn a lesson of nature that they can apply in a social context in their everyday lives: in school, at home and in their neighborhood. Or, as we like to say, "We’re not saving nature. Nature is saving us.”

Our programs take place all over the Los Angeles region, in schools and in parks. The flexible schedule makes this position attractive for someone with a passion for the work and occasional time on their hands: graduate students, substitute teachers, camp leaders or park guides.

These programs include our water science education program A Drop in the Bucket, as well as nature hikes, arts & crafts projects, and teambuilding activities with schools and community-based organizations. Elements of most programs include human relations, mindfulness, and social-emotional learning.

Requirements



Applicants MUST: 



• Enjoy working with children.
 
• Possess excellent group facilitation and group management skills. 

• Be available to work near downtown Los Angeles, anytime Monday -- Saturday, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

• Have experience conducting outdoor or environmental education programs with Kindergarten through elementary school aged children, and/or experience conducting similar programs with families and groups.
• Have knowledge and understanding of basic scientific principles, especially ecology and regional habitats. 

• Be comfortable with active, physical work outdoors. 

• Have a professional manner with clientele (teachers and parents). 

• Submit to and pass a background check. 

• Provide references upon request.

• Have reliable access to transportation.
• Be flexible and comfortable with last-minute schedule changes. 

• Have reliable access to email and cell phone. 

• A clean driving record is required for assignments that require use of company vehicles. (Not required for park site or on-campus assignments.)




Responsibilities: Instructors are responsible for the delivery of a 60-minute, 90-minute 2-hour, or day-long educational program for Kindergarten through elementary school classes and families about water science and/or local ecology (both natural and built environments).  Instructors are responsible for the maintenance of all program supplies and materials and will notify Program Coordinator of any needed re-stocking or repair.

Qualifications 


• Applicants should have a minimum of 2 years of teaching experience and/or experience leading groups at camps, outdoor schools or similar settings. 

• Applicants should have formal or non-traditional environmental education experience with elementary and middle school-aged children. 

• Applicants should have experience leading cooperative and team-building games and experiential education activities. 

• Applicants should have an understanding of Earth Sciences at the elementary and middle school level. 

• Applicants should also possess knowledge of regional environmental and socio-economic/eco-justice issues. 

• Applicants should possess the ability to adhere to a written curriculum and maintain program continuity as well as the ability to accurately pace program activities and stick to a set schedule. 

• Applicants with a bachelor’s degree (minimum) are preferred, but those with commensurate experience will be considered.
• Spanish language skills are helpful. 

• Familiarity with systems thinking is attractive.
• All applicants reaching the interview process will be required to submit to a background check. 



Duration: This is a part-time job. We offer a number of programs that range in length from 60 minutes to 6 hours on any given day. The shortest of workdays, including program set-up and clean up, is usually 4 hours. Most assignments occur during the school day. There are a few after-school and weekend assignments available. 



Location: Our offices are south of downtown Los Angeles, however "report to" destinations may be anywhere in the greater Los Angeles region.



Rate: $22 - $24/hour



Qualified applicants should respond with a cover letter and résumé (detailing relevant past experience).

Position is open if post is active.



Only people selected for interviews will be contacted. All resumes received will be held on file for consideration for 12 months from date of receipt. 

Inquiries from direct applicants only preferred - no recruiters or phone calls please.



Please note: Wildwoods is a project of Community Partners, a non-profit, public benefit 501c(3) corporation, and operates as an equal opportunity employer. This job description is general in nature and is not designed to contain or to be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications of the position.