MOSS Field Instructor

MOSS Field Instructors will develop and deliver outdoor environmental education programming for K12 students at the University of Idaho McCall Outdoor Science School. Field instructors will facilitate student-centered and inclusive one-day to week-long programming focused on developing community skills, a sense of place, and science literacy. 

Compensation: $18.00/hr, ~40hrs per week

Employment Dates: January 4, through June 2, 2023 (shorter contracts available, too)

On-campus housing options: Available at the UI McCall Field Campus

Meal Plan options: Available throughout the school year when MOSS Residential Programs are in session

Supervisor: MOSS K12 Program Development Coordinator

Application deadline: Position open until filled

ABOUT MOSS: Our K12 Programs use the outdoor environment as an integrative context for learning. We encourage a hands-on approach to scientific thinking highlighting the relationships between biological, physical, and social systems. Programs focus on building community skills, fostering a sense of place, and developing scientific literacy. Students practice science through hands-on exploration and experimentation, student-directed inquiries, and the opportunity to apply these skills and knowledge to real problems and situations.

Visit https://www.uidaho.edu/cnr/mccall-field-campus/programs-and-services/moss to learn more about MOSS Programs. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

80% Assist in delivering MOSS Residential and Outreach Programs by:                             

• Designing and facilitating student-centered, inclusive, and equitable outdoor science programs and lessons for elementary, middle, and high school students
• Designing and facilitating field experiences that focus on building community skills, a sense of place, and science literacy through exploration and various modes of discussion, rather than sharing “facts” about the environment
• Facilitating one-day to week-long field experiences for students using techniques that present multiple perspectives and ways of knowing, are culturally relevant, and are differentiated according to student needs
• Managing physical and emotional risk for K12 students in an un-regulated outdoor environment
• Delivering pre-planned 90-minute Evening Programs to large groups of 20-80 students as needed

20% Contribute to Team effort by:                                                                          

• Participating in planning meetings and debriefs with a willingness to learn from mistakes, address conflicts, and improve instruction. 
• Participating in Community Care tasks such as shoveling snow, tidying classroom spaces for other instructors to use, and helping clean up after community meals. 
• Assisting with other programming needs (e.g., maintenance of program equipment, facilities, or food service help) as needed
• Variety of tasks as assigned 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent education, training, or experience in environmental science, education, or relevant field
• At least one year of relevant experience facilitating outdoor science or similar programming for K12 students with a focus on exploration and discussion as ways to make meaning from observations. 
• Demonstrated commitment to fostering equitable and inclusive communities in facilitation of student groups and in the workplace.
• Willingness to promote a learning facilitation and work environment while also attending to the needs of students and other McCall Field Campus guests
• Willingness to contribute to MOSS Community through participating in shared community chores.
• Willingness to carry out oral and written instructions of direct supervisor. 
• Current Wilderness First Aid or ability to obtain certification prior to starting work.
• Ability to follow MOSS risk management, address concerns and needs in residential and commercial environments and to work variable hours (day and evening) as needed.
• Ability to pass a federal background check and adhere to UI Protecting Minors best practices.
• Must be able to move on packed dirt and paved trails up to 7 miles per day and 100 ft of elevation gain. 
• Must be able to carry 20lbs of equipment up to 7 miles per day

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience implementing the McCall Outdoor Science School education philosophy, outdoor leadership and environmental education curriculum and practices.
• Experience facilitating field experiences in a snowy, winter environment
• Experience with: the general public/public setting, working in a service related industry, managing small crews, project layout and assignment, working in a university/academic environment.
• Demonstrated dependability: commitment to teamwork, effective communication and using effective human relations skills.

How to apply:

Submit a resume, letter of interest and contact information for 3 professional references to Beth Kochevar, the MOSS K12 Program Development Coordinator at ekochevar@uidaho.edu

The University of Idaho (U of I) is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. In compliance with applicable laws and in furtherance of its commitment to fostering an environment that welcomes and embraces diversity, U of I does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, disability, genetic information or status as any protected veteran or military status in its programs or activities, including employment, admissions and educational programs. Inquiries may be directed to the Director of the Office of the Office of Civil Rights & Investigations, 875 Perimeter Drive, MS 3160, Moscow, ID 83844-3160; 208-885-4285 (voice) or ocri@uidaho.edu or http://www.uidaho.edu/ocri.

U of I is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to request an accommodation, please contact Human Resources 208-885-3638 or hr@uidaho.edu.