HAWKs Educator

Role Overview 

HAWKs Educators lead small groups of children on hikes and outdoor activities, teaching nature-based lessons while inspiring curiosity, confidence, and environmental stewardship. Educators are responsible for creating a fun, safe, and engaging learning experience while helping explorers build community and forge connections with nature. 

This role is hands-on, outdoors, and collaborative. 

Key Responsibilities 

1. Program Delivery & Group Leadership 

• Lead groups of 8–14 explorers (ages 5–16) with a co-educator on hikes, with games, and hands-on activities. 
  
• Teach nature-based lessons focused on ecological systems, environmental science, and conservation. 
  
• Lead nature-themed games, songs, crafts, and activities that inspire curiosity and creativity. 
  
• Teach and model trail safety and Leave No Trace principles during all programming. 
  
• Adapt activities to the age, interests, and skill level of each group to ensure a positive learning experience. 
   

2. Safety & Risk Management 

• Ensure the physical and emotional safety of all explorers during hikes and programming. 
  
• Monitor group dynamics and diffuse conflicts between participants as needed. 
  
• Lead children safely across varied terrain, including streams, steep trails, and wildlife habitats. 
  
• Carry and manage a first aid kit, water bladder, and other field essentials during all programs. 
   

3. Family & Team Communication 

• Communicate with parents and caregivers before and after programming using the registration and messaging platform. 
  
• Provide updates on explorers’ experiences, highlights from the day, and any concerns. 
  
• Collaborate closely with co-educators and senior team members to ensure seamless program delivery. 
   

4. Contribution to HAWKs Culture 

• Create a positive, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all explorers. 
  
• Act as an ambassador for HAWKs’ mission, modeling environmental awareness and respect for nature. 
  
• Support fellow educators and share knowledge, tips, and techniques to strengthen the team’s collective impact. 
   

Qualifications 

• Education & Experience 
  
• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in environmental science, education, biology, or related fields preferred. 
  
• Previous experience working with children or in outdoor education strongly preferred. 
  
• Skills & Competencies 
  
• Passion for nature-based learning and inspiring children to connect with the environment. 
  
• Creative and engaging teaching style, able to make complex topics fun and accessible. 
  
• Ability to identify and support the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical needs of explorers. 
  
• Physical Requirements 
  
• Ability to hike 5–8 miles while carrying a day backpack with water, first aid supplies, and materials. 
  
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds as needed for program setup and support. 
  
• Additional Requirements 
  
• Fluency in local ecosystems, native plants, and wildlife preferred. 
  
• Reliable transportation to programming locations. 
  
• Current CPR/First Aid certification (required or obtained within 90 days). 
  
• Wilderness First Aid certification is a plus. 
  
• Punctual, dependable, and enthusiastic about working outdoors. 
   

Success in This Role Looks Like 

• Explorers are safe, engaged, and inspired during every program. 
  
• Families feel informed and connected to their child’s experience. 
  
• Programming is delivered consistently and reflects HAWKs’ values and curriculum. 
  
• Educators create a supportive, collaborative environment for participants and fellow team members.