Environmental Science Educator

About the Position

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. 

This position delivers two types of programming throughout the year - Environmental Science Overnight Field Trips and Summer Day Camp programming.

School-year overnight field trips are run from March-June and from September-November. Weekly Forest Camp (day camp) begins in Mid-June and runs until the end of August.

Tasks and functions

During Program: 

• 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’ background.
• Create and lead differentiated programming, including 1-3 evening programs a week, that honor the needs and backgrounds of each group of participants. Differentiate activities and programming of weekly, themed sessions according to the age, background and needs of the campers.
• During Forest Camp, work collaboratively with another staff member to lead a group of campers and engage in reciprocal feedback.
• 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 and participants.

Outside of Program:

• Participate in continuous professional development, as well as personal and professional goal-setting.
• 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.
• Establish and maintain respectful, supportive and compassionate relationships with staff, volunteers and participants.
• Fulfill other duties as assigned, such as supporting school visits, program support tasks, providing feedback on special projects, and participating in campus stewardship.

NatureBridge Educator Schedule: Video: A Day in the LIfe of an Educator

Environmental Science Educator (ESE) schedule varies week-to-week. ESEs can expect to deliver environmental science and team-building programs from 9am - 4pm for 3-day programs Monday - Friday, with variability during schools’ arrival and departure days. ESEs also run evening programs 1-3 times a week from 6:30pm - 8:30pm. On a regular program day, the ESE receives up to 30 minutes of paid preparation time. During Summer Camp programming, ESEs will design and facilitate week-long day camp programs with another ESE.

Compensation:

• $16.50/hour, daily and weekly work hours vary based on programming demand. 
• Medical, dental and vision insurance.
• Option for a 403b retirement plan.
• Paid vacation, training days and sick leave.
• On-site housing may be provided as a benefit of employment. See an example of our Golden Gate housing Here. Housing varies by campus.

Eligibility Requirements and Qualifications

We are looking for candidates who have:

• At least 1 year of relevant formal or informal teaching experience
• 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 groups, including students, coworkers, supervisors, and educational partners.
• A desire to learn and grow, and an openness to feedback and coaching.
• A valid Wilderness First Aid Certification or a willingness to attain the certification prior to the start date. Tuition Aid is available to hired candidates to offset costs of a re/certification.
• 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
• Ability to work flexible hours and split shifts, including evenings.

*All NatureBridge Employees are required to 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.

NatureBridge is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and does not discriminate based on any protected category, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, gender, gender expression (including transgender expression or pregnancy), political affiliation, age, immigration status or disability. We encourage qualified applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply. Please let us know if you require any accommodation. 

How To Apply:

Review the season start date before applying! Submit your resume and 3 references to our online career portal; please respond to the short answer application questions in lieu of a cover letter. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until all positions are filled.

• Prince William Forest Park (MARE) - Manassas , Virginia
  • Start date: March 20, 2025