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
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.
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.
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.
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.
- 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.
Skills & Competencies - Passion for nature-based learning and inspiring children to connect with the
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 - $25.00 per hour.
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