ASSISTANT EDUCATOR

Kaniksu Land Trust is seeking a highly motivated individual with a passion for working with children and adults in the realm of outdoor education and conservation. This position will serve the needs of the communities in which we work by supporting awareness of conservation and the importance of outdoor education. 

JOB SUMMARY

This position will be responsible for the coordination of KLT’s youth education programs alongside the Director of Education. The position entails project and program management, curriculum design and direction, administration, coordination with educators and instructors, and delivery of outdoor education lessons at various locations. 

This position will require regular travel and outdoor work under possibly inclement conditions. Flexible work hours may be needed along with occasional work during evenings and weekends.  Unless otherwise arranged, planning time is expected to occur at the KLT office in order to facilitate staff engagement.

This position reports to and is supervised by KLT’s Director of Education.

PERSONAL QUALITIES

The successful applicant should be self-motivated, flexible, and adaptable, with a positive team-oriented attitude.  S/he must be comfortable working independently and also be able to collaborate closely with each member of our staff as necessary.  A spirit of curiosity, learning, open-mindedness and a sense of humor and adventure are all essential qualities.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

TEACHER SUPPORT (40%)

  • Develop and Provide Training: Create and deliver comprehensive training programs for Outdoor Educators at elementary schools to ensure alignment with KLT’s education programs, focusing on best practices in outdoor learning, curriculum integration, and effective teaching strategies.

  • Create and Distribute Teacher Resources: Design and develop educational materials and resources tailored to the needs of Outdoor Educators, including lesson plans, book resources, activity guides, and assessment tools, to support effective outdoor teaching and enhance the learning experience.

  • Offer Long-Term Mentorship: Provide ongoing mentorship and support to Outdoor Educators, including regular check-ins, feedback sessions, and guidance on implementing and adapting KLT’s educational programs to meet the specific needs of their classrooms.

  • Monitor and Evaluate Program Implementation: Assess the effectiveness of outdoor education programs through classroom observations, feedback from educators and students, and performance metrics, and use this data to make recommendations for program improvements and adjustments.

OUTDOOR EDUCATION (50%)

  • Design and Implement Curriculum: Develop and execute engaging and educational lesson plans for in-school programs at Pine Street Woods and local schools, after-school classes focused on hand-skill crafts, and Camp Kaniksu summer camp. Ensure that all lesson plans adhere to KLT’s ethos of outdoor education, hands-on learning, and the fostering of environmental stewardship.

  • Facilitate Hands-On Learning Activities: Lead and manage interactive, hands-on activities that align with the program’s objectives and encourage students’ active participation. Adapt instructional techniques to meet the diverse needs and interests of students, while emphasizing experiential learning and skill development.

  • Evaluate and Adapt Program Content: Continuously assess the effectiveness of educational content and activities through student feedback, observations, and performance assessments. Modify and refine lesson plans and program components to ensure they remain relevant, engaging, and aligned with KLT’s educational goals and values.

  • Collaborate with Program Staff: Work closely with other educators and program staff to ensure a cohesive and integrated approach to delivering youth programming. Share insights, coordinate efforts, and contribute to team meetings to enhance the overall quality and impact of KLT’s educational initiatives.

OTHER (10%) 

  • Attend professional development opportunities as appropriate.

  • Investigate additional partnerships to provide enhanced programming and/or financial support. 

  • Assist with administrative and office responsibilities as needed.

SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Experience working in the field of outdoor education.  

  • Commitment to the KLT vision and willingness to work to further programs in support of this vision.

  • Commitment to outdoor education as a means of nurturing physical, emotional, and academic development.  

  • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse ages and socioeconomic groups.

  • Ability to plan meaningful lessons that complement or enhance existing curricular plans and to manage complex logistics.

  • Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle (mileage reimbursed at federal rate).

  • Background check/fingerprinting required.

ADDITIONAL DETAILS: 

Target Start Date: October 28, 2024

Status: Hourly, Part-time approx. 25 hours per week

Compensation: Salary Range $17,415 - $29,525


Additional Benefits: 

Simple Retirement Plan, capped at 3% of salary

Paid Vacation: 2 weeks/ year

Professional Development Opportunities

Additional benefits as detailed in the KLT Personnel Policy including holidays & sick leave

Duration: Contingent upon success, interest and funding

TO APPLY

Applications should include:

●      A cover letter describing your skills and personal connection to land and water conservation and education.

●      Resume 

●      Up to three personal and/or professional references.

Kaniksu Land Trust is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status.