Environmental Educator

Summary: The Environmental Educator will lead and support programs including field trips, after-school programs, multi-week in-school experiences, summer camps, community events/programs, weekend events, teen leadership experiences, and more. Lesson plan development, communication, and collaboration with education staff are required to prepare for all programs. The Environmental Educator will work closely with a team of educators, including full-time staff, seasonal staff, fellows, and interns. This Environmental Educator position will serve as the primary facilitator and point of contact for our middle school Elevate after-school program with District 2 in Colorado Springs. They will report directly to the Director of Environmental Education through the vision and guidance of the Executive Director.

Essential Functions (Primary Responsibilities): Environmental Educators develop, implement, and enhance programs, projects, and activities that will create progress for Catamount Institute’s goals. The Environmental Educator will:

• Facilitate and lead year-round outdoor education programs, including summer camps.
• Serve as the primary facilitator for middle school Elevate after-school programs in partnership with District 2 schools.
• Support school programs, including field trips, in-school, after-school, weekend, and occasional 2-6 day overnight programs.
• Effectively collaborate with Catamount Institute staff to meet organizational goals.
• Develop and improve program resources, including lesson plans, activities, and materials.
• Regularly meet with the Environmental Education Manager, Director of Environmental Education, and Executive Director to review educational programs, goals, and performance.
• Track progress and collect evaluation data for the program’s performance measures.
• Attend all required orientations, meetings, and trainings.
• Collaborate with Catamount Institute staff to evaluate and report on youth programs.
• Assist with the photography and videography program portfolio.
• Prepare marketing plans for existing programs, which include flyers, timelines, and contacts.
• Attend fundraising and tabling events.
• Other duties as assigned.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

• This position is primarily located in Colorado Springs, CO, at the Catamount Institute, with some responsibilities and programs at the Mountain Campus in Woodland Park, CO.
• Work takes place in both indoor and outdoor environments, including natural areas, school settings, and community locations.
• Outdoor programs occur year-round and in varying weather conditions, including rain, snow, heat, and cold.
• Programs may involve hiking, setting up outdoor learning spaces, and physically active facilitation. Must be able to lift and carry up to 40 pounds.
• Regularly required to walk, stand, and engage with youth for extended periods. May also stoop, kneel, crouch, or sit on the ground as part of instruction.
• Sensory demands include visual supervision and auditory response in indoor and outdoor spaces.
• Occasional overnight programs (2–6 days) are required.
• Driving a 15-passenger van to transport youth and materials is required.
• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. Work days are often 10:00am – 6:30pm, unless assigned programs are on days with no after-school programs or on weekends.
• May be exposed to insect bites, allergens, uneven terrain, and cleaning materials.
• Emotional resilience and a calm, professional demeanor are required in dynamic youth program settings.
• Use of a computer and other office equipment is required for lesson planning, communication, and program tracking.

Required Qualifications:

• 2 – 5 years of education experience with middle and/or high school audiences.
• High school diploma or GED required. A bachelor’s degree in a related field preferred (education, environmental science, biology etc.).
• Ability to work outdoors in a variety of weather conditions, including overnights.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; computer literate.
• Adaptable, dependable, and able to take initiative in changing environments.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Ability to professionally engage with youth, families, school staff, and community partners.
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equity in education and the workplace.
• Ability to pass a background check.
• Valid driver’s license with a good driving record and at least 25 years of age (for van insurance eligibility).
• Reliable transportation.
• U.S. Citizenship or lawful permanent resident status.