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 — and comes with paid training to get you ready for the field.

Summary

HAWKs Educator

Reports to: Field Operations Manager
Location: Oakland, Piedmont, and Berkeley, CA
Position Type: Part-Time (average 10–25 hours/week)
Compensation: $25/hour, plus paid training

About HAWKs East Bay

HAWKs East Bay is a brand-new franchise launching in the Oakland/Piedmont/Berkeley area, bringing outdoor, nature-based education to local kids. This is a rare opportunity to help build an outdoor education program from the ground up — joining a founding team that will shape how programs run and what kids experience, right from year one.

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 field preferred, but not required.
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 outdoors.
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.
Valid driver's license with a clean driving record; comfortable driving a program van with explorers on board after training.
Current CPR/First Aid certification (required or obtained within 60 days).
Wilderness First Aid certification (required or obtained within 60 days).
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.

Compensation Information

$25/hour with paid training