FWS - Nature School Teaching Assistant - Wild Roots (CSWS)

This position is only open to current Pacific University Students

Location: Off Campus at B Street Learning Commons (1155 B St, Forest Grove) and Wild Roots Farm Campus (Gales Creek)

Wage: $16.80/hr

Length of employment: 2026-27 academic year

Purpose of Position: Wild Roots offers inclusive, relationship-centered outdoor education grounded incuriosity, kindness, capability, and connection to place. Students work with experienced nature educators in small, mixed-age classes and gain practical experience in child development, teaching, group facilitation, neuro-affirming practice, risk-benefit assessment, and place-based curriculum. The team values diverse identities, learning styles, perspectives, reflection, collaboration, and growth through mentorship.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

The assistant joins a lead teacher in preparing and facilitating a day of outdoor learning. A shift may include:

• Setting up materials
• Welcoming children
• Supporting nature exploration and creative projects
• Modeling safe tool use and stewardship
• Helping children navigate routines and peer interactions
• Assisting with transitions, meals, and site care
• The student observes children, communicates with the teaching team, and reflects on strategies that support participation and belonging

Outcomes include safe, engaging learning experiences and increased student skill in responsive, inclusive education.

Competencies to Practice:

• Active Citizenship & Community Engagement
• Applied Problem Solving
• Career Management
• Oral & Written Communication
• Teamwork & Leadership
• Engaging Diversity
• Ethical Reasoning & Decision Making

Supervisor / Recruiter: Contact Pacific Opportunity Hub (workandservice@pacificu.edu) to be connected with on-site supervisor

Required:

• Dependable, warm, attentive
• Able to communicate clearly and maintain appropriate boundaries and confidentiality
• Ability to work collaboratively and safely outdoors in varied weather
• Must complete require screening and safety training

Desired:

• Interest or experience in education, child development, environmental studies, psychology, social work, recreation, or related fields.
• Experience with children is helpful but not required