Lead Educator (Outdoor Education)

The Mission 
At the Volcan Mountain Foundation, we believe nature is the ultimate classroom. Our goal is to foster deep, sensory connections between children (Grades TK-12) and the natural world. We provide hands-on, inspiring outdoor experiences that turn the ecology of Volcan Mountain into a living textbook.

Key Responsibilities 
Instructional Leadership & Management:
●    Lead Instruction: Serve as the primary field teacher for all youth programs on VMF properties and occasional offsite locations.
●    Team Supervision: Oversee instructional staff and volunteers, delegating activities and ensuring consistency across all programs.
●    Logistics & Planning: Coordinate with the Program Coordinator to schedule staff/volunteers and ensure all teaching materials are prepared and maintained.
●    Tailored Learning: Act as the point of contact for visiting teachers to modify or individualize lessons based on specific classroom needs.

Curriculum & Outreach:
●    Program Design: Partner with the Education Committee to refine courses that highlight the unique habitats and ecology of Volcan Mountain.
●    Training: Assist in recruiting and leading training sessions for new outdoor education volunteers.
●    Storytelling: Represent VMF at outreach events and showcase the magic of our classes through photography and storytelling on VMF's social media platforms.

Safety & Stewardship:
●    Safety First: Take primary responsibility for the well-being of students, visitors, and volunteers.
●    Environment Care: Maintain the organization of classroom environments and essential educational materials.
●    Compliance: Adhere to youth protection protocols and maintain current organization-provided LiveScan and First Aid/CPR certification.

What You Bring to the Mountain:
●    Expertise: A strong background in outdoor education with proven experience leading groups in backcountry or outdoor classroom settings.
●    Leadership: The ability to manage group dynamics effectively and supervise a diverse team of staff and volunteers.
●    Communication: Exceptional verbal skills with the ability to translate complex ecological concepts into age-appropriate, engaging lessons.
●    Digital Savvy: Proficiency in photography and social media storytelling, along with basic computer skills for reporting and coordination.
●    Physical Readiness: Must be able to hike and work outdoors in varying weather conditions and across uneven terrain.

Why Volcan Mountain? 
This is more than a job; it’s an opportunity to shape the next generation of environmental stewards in one of Southern California's most beautiful landscapes. If you are a passionate educator with a love for the wild, we want to hear from you. 

To Apply: Eric Jones, President and Executive Director; email resume to eric@volcanmt.org  
Volcan Mountain Foundation is an equal opportunity employer.